Maui's verdant Upcountry region is unlike anywhere else on the Valley Isle. While visitors are drawn to Upcountry for its stunning bi-coastal views and renowned attractions like Haleakala National Park and Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, the area's true charm lies in its laid-back vibes and farm-fresh food. Whether you're a devout foodie or a traveler looking to grab a tasty bite, here are the top five restaurants in Upcountry Maui.
Hali'imaile General Store
Hali'imaile General Store is not just one of the best restaurants in Upcountry, but in all of Maui. Hali'imaile General Store is located about halfway up Haleakala Highway (Route 37) in the old plantation outpost of Hali'imaile. The building was initially crafted in 1925 to cater to the large immigrant population who came to Maui to work in the thriving pineapple industry.
In the plantation era, the general store not only provided groceries but was also a butcher shop, fish market, post office, and carried items such as household appliances and clothing. The store continued on this course until 1988 when Chef Beverly Gannon signed a new lease that eventually led to the creation of the Haliimaile General Store Restaurant as we know it today.
Today, the Hali'imaile General Store is renowned for its beautifully plated fresh meals made with locally sourced ingredients. It's rumored to be a favorite of Oprah Winfrey's as well!
Restaurant Marlow
Restaurant Marlow opened in 2021 and was one of the first businesses to open their doors in the string of new, empty storefronts in the Kulamalu Town Center. This Pukalani establishment is the brainchild of acclaimed Maui chef Jeff Scheer.
While classic Italian eats like burrata and meatball en sugo grace the menu at Restaurant Marlow, it's the wood-fired, hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas that are the star of the show. A handful of red and white pies are on offer at Marlow, and all are made to order in a high-temp wood-burning oven, imported directly from Italy.
With chic decor, a savvy wine list, and speedy service, Restaurant Marlow has quickly become a popular Upcountry watering hole. Dine in or take a pizza to go and watch a fantastic Upcountry sunset.
Casanova
Situated in the quaint cowboy town of Makawao, Casanova is a favorite among many Maui locals and tourists alike. Casanova serves up tasty Italian cuisine so authentic it will leave you feeling like you just teleported to Italy for an evening.
The building that houses Casanova is one of the oldest structures in Upcountry Maui, serving as a USO for American Marines during WWII. It was also a rodeo club with swing dancing throughout the early 1980s when Makawao was the commercial hub of the Paniolo (cowboy) community.
This longtime Maui establishment recently underwent a sleek renovation under new ownership. However, Casanova classics remain on the menu, like homemade ravioli and lasagne bolognese. In addition, Casanova is now open for Sunday brunch and has become one of the hottest brunch spots on Maui.
Grandma's Coffee House
Grandma's Coffee House has been around since before some of our grandmothers were even born! Founded around 1918, this cafe/restaurant has been a meeting place to enjoy the fresh upcountry air and talk story with friends and family for nearly a century. While Grandma's homey comfort food is to die for, coffee is the backbone of the cafe. All of Grandma's coffee is sourced locally, then roasted in their 100 + year old roaster that can be seen through a viewing window next to the counter. When the beans are roasting, the sweet smell of coffee permeates through the crisp Upcountry air.
The interior of Grandma's reflects the cafe's name: the cozy, log-cabin-esque dining room feels reminiscent of a welcoming grandmother's home. Step onto the patio, and you'll be treated to views of the West Maui Mountains and Ma'alaea Bay.
Kula Bistro
Located across from the Iconic Morihara Store, Kula Bistro offers fresh, flavorful cuisine in a family-style setting. In addition, you will find tasty home-style cooking with an Italian flair.
The restaurant's charming atmosphere captures the ambiance of a traditional Italian trattoria while keeping the fresh Maui vibe alive as well. Luciano Zanon and his wife Chantal opened Kula Bistro in 2012 with a vision of offering finely crafted food in an affordable, comfortable setting. From Pastas and pizzas to classic entrèes, Kula Bistro is a perfect place for you and your family. Be sure to take some time on your vacation to experience Upcountry Maui.
Also in Upcountry…
As of 2021, Upcountry is now home to its very own craft brewery! Located in the Kulamalu Town Center next to Restaurant Marlow, Mahalo Aleworks is the Upcountry hub for craft beer lovers. Their beers are brewed in-house using locally sourced ingredients, and their tap list boasts unique brews like starfruit sours and cream ale sessions. The taps frequently change depending on what's in season, so if you see something you like, don't hesitate to try it! Mahalo Aleworks also takes their taproom to the next level by allowing guests to order pizza from Restaurant Marlow. Alternatively, Upcountry Sausage Co. sets up shop daily on the patio at Mahalo Aleworks, ready to grill up fresh sausage sandwiches and smash burgers to hungry brewery-goers.
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