12 Wildly Famous Breakfast Spots on Maui That Are Totally Worth the Hype
As a native Hawaiian who’s called Oahu home for decades, I’ve island-hopped more times than I can count. From sunrise hikes on Haleakalā to sunset dinners in Lahaina, I’ve experienced every corner of our beautiful archipelago.
But here’s what I’ve learned after countless breakfast adventures across Maui: the hype around these 12 spots isn’t just tourist talk. Let’s dive into why these breakfast destinations have earned their legendary status.
Kihei Caffe – The Original South Shore Legend
Don’t let the simple exterior fool you – this local institution has been perfecting hearty Hawaiian-style breakfasts since 1998, earning its reputation as the best breakfast spot in Kihei. The no-frills atmosphere with plastic chairs and casual counter service creates the perfect backdrop for what locals call “real kine grindz.”
What sets Kihei Caffe apart is their commitment to massive portions and authentic local flavors that haven’t changed in over two decades. The early 5am opening time caters to surfers and adventurers, while the efficient service keeps lines moving despite the crowds that form during peak hours.
The morning I brought my mainland cousin here, she couldn’t believe the size of her loco moco plate. “This could feed three people back home,” she laughed, barely making a dent in the mountain of rice, hamburger patty, and perfectly runny egg drowning in rich brown gravy.
What Makes It Special:
- Local institution: Serving authentic Hawaiian breakfast since 1998
- Massive portions: Known for generous servings that often require sharing
- Early opening: 5am start time perfect for sunrise adventures
Must-try dishes:
- Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes – fluffy pancakes with local nuts and tropical fruit
- Loco Moco – hamburger patty, rice, egg, and gravy in perfect harmony
- Pork Fried Rice with Eggs – enormous portion of savory fried rice
At-a-Glance: 💵 Under $25 per person | 📅 Opens 5am daily for early birds | 🚗 Free parking across street | ⏰ All-day breakfast menu
Price range: $ | Best for: Hearty local breakfast | Dress code: Casual
Location: 1945 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753 | Phone: (808) 879-2230 | Website: kiheicaffe.com
Stay nearby: Maui Coast Hotel is just down the street from Kihei Caffe’s second location.
The Gazebo Restaurant – Oceanfront Pancake Paradise
Perched directly on Napili Bay with unobstructed ocean views, this tiny beachfront restaurant has achieved legendary status for serving some of the most photographed pancakes in Hawaii. The open-air setting allows gentle trade winds to carry the scent of plumeria while you dine just steps from pristine white sand.
What makes The Gazebo truly special isn’t just the stunning location – it’s the perfect execution of their signature macadamia nut pancakes that have remained unchanged for decades. The combination of fluffy pancakes, locally-sourced nuts, and house-made coconut syrup creates a breakfast experience that defines tropical indulgence.
During my anniversary breakfast here, my wife and I watched green sea turtles surface in the bay while sharing a stack of those famous pancakes. The whipped cream melted in the morning sun as quickly as our stress from mainland life disappeared.
What Makes It Special:
- Beachfront location: Dining directly on Napili Bay with ocean views
- Signature pancakes: Famous macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup
- Romantic setting: Perfect for special occasions and memorable moments
Must-try dishes:
- Macadamia Nut Pancakes – topped with whipped cream and coconut syrup
- Fried Rice Plate – enormous portion perfect for sharing
- Fresh fruit and local coffee – perfect lighter options
At-a-Glance: 💵 $20-35 per person | 📅 Arrive by 7:15am to avoid lines | 🌊 Direct oceanfront dining | 🥞 Only 12-15 tables available
Price range: $$ | Best for: Special occasions | Dress code: Beach casual
Location: 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Napili Shores Resort, Lahaina, HI 96761
Stay nearby: Napili Shores Resort hosts The Gazebo restaurant on-site.
The Sea House Restaurant – The Haleakala Pancake Paradise
Located at Napili Kai Beach Resort overlooking pristine Napili Bay, The Sea House has earned multiple awards from Maui Magazine including Best Breakfast, Most Maui-est Restaurant, and Best Happy Hour . This oceanfront gem sits literally at the water’s edge, providing breathtaking Pacific views while you dine just steps from Maui’s calmest waters.
What sets The Sea House apart is their signature Haleakala Pancake – an oven-baked masterpiece in airy custard batter with caramelized cinnamon sugar, pineapples, and bananas that requires a minimum 15 minutes to prepare . The restaurant operates under Executive Chef Alex Stanislaw, recipient of numerous prestigious accolades including “Best Chef on Maui”.
We have been to the Sea House for breakfast on several trips to Maui and we love the Haleakala Pancake, a baked, custard-type pancake filled with pineapple and bananas, with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar.
What Makes It Special:
- Multiple Maui Magazine ‘Aipono Awards winner
- Oceanfront dining literally at water’s edge
- Famous Haleakala Pancake with 15-minute preparation
- Open-air setting with trade winds and plumeria scents
Must-try items:
- Haleakala Pancake with caramelized cinnamon sugar
- Molokai Sweet Potato Egg Frittata
- Da Kitchen Sink Fried Rice
At-a-Glance: 💵 $10-35 per person | 📅 Reservations recommended | 🚗 Resort parking available
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Romantic oceanfront dining | Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM daily
Location: Napili Kai Beach Resort, 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Napili | Phone: (808) 669-1500
Stay nearby: Napili Kai Beach Resort (on-site) offers beachfront luxury accommodations directly at The Sea House Restaurant with award-winning cuisine and stunning bay views .
Tasty Crust – Old School Hawaiian Institution
This Wailuku institution represents authentic old-school Hawaii at its finest, serving residents traditional Hawaiian-style breakfast for generations. The vintage Coca-Cola branding and unchanged décor create a time-travel experience where locals gather for honest, hearty breakfast food prepared the traditional way.
The no-frills dining room with fluorescent lighting and simple furnishings embodies that authentic local culture that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern Hawaii. This isn’t fusion cuisine or Instagram-worthy presentation – it’s substantial, reasonably-priced breakfast food that local families have enjoyed for decades.
What Makes It Special:
- Local institution: Authentic Hawaiian breakfast culture for generations
- Unchanged atmosphere: Vintage décor and traditional preparation methods
- Reasonable prices: Local pricing rather than tourist-inflated costs
Must-try dishes:
- Macadamia Nut Pancakes – local nuts with fluffy pancakes
- Local Style Omelet – traditional Hawaiian breakfast preparation
- French Toast – simple preparation with quality ingredients
At-a-Glance: 💵 Under $15 per person | 🕰️ Vintage 1940s atmosphere | 📅 All-day breakfast until 10pm | 💰 Most affordable on this list
Price range: $ | Best for: Authentic local experience | Dress code: Casual
Location: 1770 Mill Street, Wailuku, HI 96793 | Phone: (808) 244-0845
Stay nearby: Maui Seaside Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations in nearby Kahului.
SixtyTwo MarcKet – The Seasonal Innovation Hub
Located in historic Wailuku Town at 62 N Market St, SixtyTwo MarcKet features innovative, farm-fresh cuisine in a crisp, tasteful farmhouse atmosphere. Ranked #8 of 65 restaurants in Wailuku and earning TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice recognition, this establishment operates under Owner/Chef Marc McDowell who changes the menu every 62 days to showcase seasonal ingredients.
What makes SixtyTwo MarcKet unique is their commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and constantly evolving seasonal menu that brings the best of Maui’s microclimate to every plate . The restaurant serves breakfast all day with lunch starting at 10 AM, accommodating various schedules while maintaining exceptional food quality.
Their Signature Mango Crab Eggs Benedict with Mango Hollandaise and cheddar jalapeño cornbread has become legendary among locals, while innovative dishes like Ube pancakes demonstrate the restaurant’s creative approach to Hawaiian fusion cuisine.
What Makes It Special:
- Menu changes every 62 days with seasonal ingredients
- Located in historic Wailuku Town
- TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice recognition
- Locally-sourced, farm-fresh cuisine focus
Must-try items:
- Signature Mango Crab Eggs Benedict
- Da Local Frittata with Portuguese sausage
- Wailuku Town Stuffed French Toast
At-a-Glance: 💵 $12-25 per person | 📅 Closed Saturdays | 🚗 Street parking available
Price range: $$ | Best for: Creative breakfast enthusiasts | Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sun 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: 62 N Market St, Wailuku | Phone: (808) 793-2277
Stay nearby: The Historic Wailuku Inn (walking distance) offers boutique accommodations in a beautifully restored 1924 estate with modern amenities and authentic Hawaiian charm in the heart of Wailuku Town .
Nalu’s South Shore Grill – Live Music and Local Comfort
Hidden in Kihei’s Azeka Shopping Center, this open-air restaurant doesn’t rely on beachfront real estate but instead delivers consistently excellent food with authentic Hawaiian flavors. The tropical garden setting creates an intimate atmosphere where breakfast becomes a leisurely cultural experience rather than rushed tourist dining.
The menu perfectly balances familiar comfort food with innovative Hawaiian twists, showcasing local ingredients in creative preparations. Their corn flake crusted French toast exemplifies this approach – Hawaiian sweet bread stuffed with lilikoi marmalade cream and topped with fresh pineapple and macadamia nuts.
When I discovered their weekend live music brunches, I realized I’d found something special. Barry Flanagan from the legendary band Hapa performs Saturday mornings, transforming breakfast into an authentic Hawaiian cultural experience that tourists rarely discover.
What Makes It Special:
- Live music: Weekend performances by renowned Hawaiian musicians
- Local gathering spot: Authentic atmosphere where residents and visitors mingle
- Creative menu: Innovative takes on Hawaiian comfort food classics
Must-try dishes:
- Corn Flake Crusted French Toast – Hawaiian sweet bread with lilikoi cream
- Acai Bowl – fresh tropical fruits with local ingredients
- Ahi Club Sandwich – seared island tuna prepared local-style
At-a-Glance: 💵 $18-28 per person | 🎵 Live Hawaiian music weekends | 🚗 Free shopping center parking | 🥗 Bar seating for faster service
Price range: $$ | Best for: Cultural experience | Dress code: Casual
Location: 1280 S. Kihei Road, Azeka Shopping Center, Kihei, HI 96753
Stay nearby: Maui Sunset condos are within walking distance of Azeka Shopping Center.
Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop – Comfort Food Innovation
This charming Lahaina establishment has built its reputation on creative takes on classic breakfast dishes that somehow feel both familiar and surprising. The welcoming atmosphere and commitment to fresh local ingredients creates an elevated comfort food experience that appeals to both adventurous eaters and traditional breakfast lovers.
Their “omelet style” French toast sounds unusual but delivers perfectly – soaking French toast in egg batter and cooking it omelet-style with savory fillings. The concept bridges sweet and savory cravings while showcasing the kitchen’s innovative approach to familiar breakfast comfort food.
What Makes It Special:
- Creative comfort food: Innovative takes on traditional breakfast classics
- Fresh local ingredients: Commitment to sourcing from Maui farms and producers
- Welcoming atmosphere: Family-friendly environment with exceptional hospitality
Must-try dishes:
- “Omelet Style” French Toast – unique preparation with savory fillings
- Fried Chicken and Waffles – malted waffles with spicy-sweet glazed chicken
- Homemade pies – both sweet and savory options made fresh daily
At-a-Glance: 💵 $22-32 per person | 🥧 Famous for homemade pies | 🚗 Street parking available | 📅 All-day dining menu
Price range: $$ | Best for: Creative breakfast | Dress code: Casual
Location: Lahaina, HI | Phone: (808) 662-3600
Stay nearby: Lahaina Shores Beach Resort offers oceanfront accommodations in historic Lahaina.
Grandma’s Coffee House – Four Generations of Excellence
Located in upcountry Keokea, this family operation represents authentic Hawaiian coffee culture spanning four generations since 1916. The elevation provides cooler temperatures and stunning valley views while the family grows, hand-picks, sun-dries, and roasts their organic coffee beans on-site.
Their bright green wooden restaurant creates a charming old-fashioned atmosphere where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee mingles with the scent of eucalyptus and upcountry flowers. The homemade cinnamon rolls disappear quickly each morning, requiring early arrival to secure these coveted pastries.
What Makes It Special:
- Four-generation family legacy: Coffee cultivation and roasting since 1916
- Estate-grown coffee: Beans grown on Haleakala slopes and roasted on-site
- Authentic atmosphere: Old-fashioned Hawaiian coffee house experience
Must-try dishes:
- Cinnamon rolls – homemade daily, arrive early before they sell out
- Belgian waffles with fresh fruit – featuring local seasonal ingredients
- Organic coffee – estate-grown and roasted on premises
At-a-Glance: 💵 Under $20 per person | ☕ Estate-grown coffee since 1916 | 🌄 Mountain views and cool weather | 🥖 Arrive early for cinnamon rolls
Price range: $ | Best for: Coffee lovers | Dress code: Casual
Location: 9232 Kula Highway, Kula, HI 96790 | Phone: (808) 878-2140
Stay nearby: Kula Lodge offers upcountry accommodations with mountain views.
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Kula Bistro – Farm-to-Table Upcountry Dining
Located in Maui’s agricultural heartland, this upcountry restaurant takes full advantage of its farming community location by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and markets. The elevated setting provides cooler morning temperatures and expansive views across Maui’s central valley while maintaining a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere.
The Farmers Market Omelette epitomizes their farm-to-table philosophy, filled with seasonally rotating vegetables sourced directly from local farmers markets. This approach ensures each visit offers slightly different flavors while maintaining consistently high quality and supporting the local agricultural community.
What Makes It Special:
- Farm-to-table commitment: Direct sourcing from local upcountry farms
- Seasonal menu changes: Ingredients vary based on local harvest availability
- Upcountry setting: Mountain views and cooler temperatures
Must-try dishes:
- Farmers Market Omelette – seasonal vegetables from local farms
- Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes – featuring local nuts and tropical fruit
- Fresh seasonal salads – organic greens from nearby farms
At-a-Glance: 💵 $20-30 per person | 🌾 Seasonal farm-fresh ingredients | 📅 Thu-Sun breakfast only | 🏔️ Upcountry mountain views
Price range: $$ | Best for: Farm-fresh dining | Dress code: Casual
Location: 4566 Lower Kula Road, Kula, Maui, HI 96790 | Phone: (808) 871-2960 | Website: kulabistro.com
Stay nearby: Lumeria Maui offers wellness-focused accommodations in upcountry Maui.
Colleen’s at the Cannery – Historic Haiku Gem
Located in historic Haiku, this restaurant operates from a converted cannery building that reflects the area’s pineapple plantation heritage. The high ceilings and hip café atmosphere create an unexpectedly sophisticated dining environment in this upcountry farming community.
The menu shifts throughout the day while maintaining consistently flavorful and well-priced options for all ages and dietary preferences. The atmosphere transforms from bright morning coffee shop to relaxed lunch service, then bustling candlelit dinner conversation.
What Makes It Special:
- Historic setting: Converted pineapple cannery building with character
- All-day dining: Seamless menu transitions from breakfast through dinner
- Local favorite: Upcountry residents’ preferred dining destination since 1996
Must-try dishes:
- Seared sashimi – unique breakfast protein option
- Fresh local fish preparations – showcasing island catches
- Organic salads – featuring locally-sourced greens
At-a-Glance: 💵 $20-40 per person | 🏭 Historic cannery building | 📅 Open 6am-9:30pm daily | 🐕 Dog-friendly outdoor seating
Price range: $$ | Best for: Historic atmosphere | Dress code: Casual
Location: Haiku, Maui | Hours: Daily 6am-9:30pm
Stay nearby: Haiku vacation rentals offer countryside accommodations near Colleen’s.
Paia Bay Coffee Bar – Bohemian North Shore Hideaway
Hidden in Paia Town’s heart within a lush tropical garden setting, this café captures the laid-back spirit of Maui’s north shore. The enchanting atmosphere attracts local artists, surfers, and visitors seeking that authentic “hidden gem” experience away from resort dining.
The sustainable approach includes certified Platinum Ocean Friendly Restaurant status, using compostable paper products while featuring local organic ingredients including coffee beans, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Live music from authentic Hawaiian musicians and DJs enhances the cultural experience six nights weekly.
What Makes It Special:
- Hidden garden setting: Lush tropical atmosphere in Paia Town’s heart
- Cultural authenticity: Local artists, musicians, and surfer community gathering spot
- Sustainability focus: Ocean-friendly practices and local organic sourcing
Must-try dishes:
- Organic local coffee – featuring Hawaiian-grown beans
- Fresh tropical fruit bowls – seasonal local fruits
- Vegan-friendly options – accommodating various dietary preferences
At-a-Glance: 💵 $15-25 per person | 🎭 Live music 6 nights weekly | 🌱 Platinum Ocean Friendly certified | 🏄 Surfer and artist hangout
Price range: $$ | Best for: Cultural immersion | Dress code: Bohemian casual
Location: Paia, Maui | Website: Paia Community Association
Stay nearby: Paia Inn offers boutique accommodations in historic Paia Town.
Sugar Beach Bake Shop – Artisan Breakfast Pastries
This Kihei institution handcrafts exceptional baked goods using premium ingredients including Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, fresh-picked lilikoi, and Maui Meyer lemon zest. The daily-changing selection ensures freshness while incorporating seasonal local flavors into European baking techniques.
The display cases showcase an impressive array of fresh-baked items that change based on seasonal ingredients and baker inspiration. Fresh-brewed Hawaiian OMA coffee and house-made lemonades complement the artisan pastries while maintaining the welcoming neighborhood bakery atmosphere.
What Makes It Special:
- Artisan baking: Premium ingredients including Madagascar vanilla and local fruits
- Daily fresh selection: Ever-changing menu based on seasonal availability
- Local ingredients: Maui-grown fruits and Hawaiian coffee
Must-try dishes:
- Fresh-baked pastries – daily selection featuring local flavors
- Hawaiian OMA coffee – fresh-brewed local beans
- House-made lemonades – refreshing tropical beverages
At-a-Glance: 💵 Under $20 per person | 🥐 Madagascar vanilla pastries | 📅 Closed Sundays | ☕ Hawaiian OMA coffee
Price range: $ | Best for: Pastry lovers | Dress code: Casual
Location: 61 South Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753 | Phone: (808) 757-8285 | Website: sugarbeachbakeshop.com
Stay nearby: Kihei Bay Surf condos are within walking distance of Sugar Beach Bake Shop.
Roy’s Kaanapali – Upscale Golf Course Dining
Overlooking Kaanapali Golf Course’s 18th hole, this upscale restaurant brings fine dining sensibilities to breakfast without feeling pretentious. The peaceful golf course views provide a refined morning atmosphere perfect for special occasion breakfasts or business meetings.
The sophisticated menu elevates traditional breakfast dishes through careful attention to presentation and premium ingredients. Crab Cake Benedict and artfully crafted French Toast demonstrate how breakfast can be both satisfying and elegant while maintaining approachable comfort food appeal.
What Makes It Special:
- Golf course setting: Peaceful views of Kaanapali’s famous 18th hole
- Upscale breakfast: Fine dining approach to morning meals
- Special occasion perfect: Sophisticated atmosphere for celebrations
Must-try dishes:
- Crab Cake Benedict – elevated version of the classic
- Artfully crafted French Toast – sophisticated presentation and preparation
- Fresh tropical fruit presentations – beautiful plating with local ingredients
At-a-Glance: 💵 $30-45 per person | ⛳ Golf course 18th hole views | 🍾 Fine dining breakfast | 🚗 Resort valet parking included
Price range: $$$ | Best for: Special occasions | Dress code: Resort casual
Location: Kaanapali, Maui
Stay nearby: Hyatt Regency Maui offers luxury resort accommodations at Kaanapali Beach.
These twelve breakfast destinations represent the absolute best of Maui’s morning dining scene, each offering something unique while contributing to the island’s reputation as a world-class culinary destination. Whether you’re seeking oceanfront elegance, local authenticity, or innovative comfort food, these spots deliver experiences that make early mornings worthwhile and create lasting vacation memories.
