Maui Musts
I don’t consider myself an expert in much, but where to eat and specifically, what to eat, is something you can trust me on.
Next time you’re in Maui, make sure you visit these vegan-friendly, Katie-approved eateries.
Note that grocery shopping as a vegan is so much better here, no matter where you go. Even Safeway has way more options than Canada because it’s the U.S. Also less demand and good deals on the stuff we like, like Hellman’s vegan mayo, Califia Farms milk, etc.
My Maui Musts—
PAIA
Paia Bay Coffee
Tucked away behind San Lorenzo bikini shop on Baldwin Ave., this outdoor oasis is the perfect way to start your day. They also have a great happy hour with live music nightly.
Must order: Vegan bagel + Lavender latte, add CBD oil, in a for-here mug.
Best seat in the house: back left corner nook, to the right of the bar.
Mana Foods
I like to pretend this is Whole Foods before it became corporate. If you are like me, and truly enjoy perusing through new grocery aisles, especially in new countries, you’ll be in heaven. Chris was not.
Must explore: the salad bar + beauty/supplement section.
Cafe des Amis
This is one of those places, that if you know, you know. The boho indoor/outdoor environment is truly unique to warmer cultures like Maui.
We always try to plan a Cafe De Amis happy hour (4-6 daily) into our day.
Must order: Lilikoi Margarita - half sweet (50% off during happy hour) with a hummus plate. If you end up staying for dinner, try their veg curry and keep the margaritas flowing!
Best seat in the house: by the window so you can people watch.
Surf Club Tacos
This place was very new when we first visited, like maybe it was opening day? So their liquor license was available, and a few other glitches. BUT—loved the decor and the outdoor eating space. Definitely worth checking out.
Warning: I got the bowl, and the serving size was similar to something I would serve a 3.5 year old. Stick to the tacos! (which is always a good rule anyway!)
LAHAINA
Monkey Pod
Monkey Pod is quite the departure from Cafe des Amis but you have to love it for what it is: fun atmosphere, great happy hour and walking distance to the beach. We will usually spend a day at the Lahaina hotel beach strip and then head here for 4pm. Great spot to watch the sun go down!
Warning: make a reservation or you may be waiting in line for an hour.
Best seat in the house: bar top baby!
Must order: my favourite beer—Mango Cart on tap. Their corn chowder is SO GOOD (ask for it vegan). Worth trying their cocktails too!
Maui Farmer’s Market + Deli
When you’re traveling, sometimes you just want something you could have made in your own home kitchen, like a sandwich or wrap to bring to the beach. This market has all the specialty health store items as well as a salad bar + deli.
Must order: my go-to order at the deli counter is their ‘chicken’ (tossed in hot sauce) caesar wrap. Perfect meal after a day in the Maui surf.
Good to know: this is where you will find all your vegan products, local produce and specialty products like hemp hearts.
Tamura’s Poke
Do not turn around when you see that this is a convenience store with a poke shop in the back. This is where all the locals get their poke. Thank me later for this hot tip!
Must order: Poke bowl with brown rice, tofu and sea asparagus. Top with furikake and extra soy sauce on side.
Traveller Tip: This is less than 10 min from the airport. It’s always our first stop when we arrive, followed by Costco down the road.
KEHEI
Hawaiian Moons Natural Foods
Similar to the Farmer’s Market in Lahaina, this is your stop for specialty grocery items, local produce and a great deli. There’s just something about a fresh sandwich or wrap after a morning of tennis or to bring to the beach.
Must order: either the veg wrap or turn the veggie burger into a wrap. Make sure to specify veganaise!