Best Brunch in Maui 2023 - Sand in My Luggage

Welcome to the best brunch in Maui awards show!

As big foodies, my boyfriend and I have spent the last month trying out all the best restaurants and cafes on the island. And let me tell you, no one does brunch like Maui. This island has everything from upscale eateries serving delicious plates of pasta and sandwiches to laid-back cafes serving a hearty breakfast.

But finding the best spot for brunch can be daunting, especially with so many options to choose from. That’s why I’ve spent the last month researching the range of brunch items, the best spots in each town, price ranges, and vegan/gluten-free/vegetarian meal options.

I’ve tested these brunches firsthand, tasting the most delicious dishes and experiencing the ambiance of each establishment. And now, I’m here to share my findings with you.

So get ready to taste the best brunch in Maui! My goal with this list is to save you time and help you make the best choice possible for your next brunch outing.

After all the delicious meals and memorable experiences, I’ve ranked these restaurants according to taste, ambiance, and value. These are the best of the best, so you can have the most enjoyable brunch experience on the island no matter which spot you choose.

Let’s dive in and discover the best brunch in Maui!

What Will I Learn? show

The Plantation House – Best Brunch in Kapalua

Part of a resort overlooking the Plantation Golf Course, this upscale restaurant serves a delectable brunch with gorgeous views of the West Maui coastline. However, they require reservations for brunch, and have higher prices than most places.

From the breakfast menu, try their Bananas Foster Pancakes with runny caramel and banana brulee that’s melt-in-your-mouth soft, and the Portuguese sausage omelet served with applewood smoked bacon and cheese.

My boyfriend tried their Loco Moco with a wagyu Kobe patty, sunny side eggs, and savory brown gravy, which was incredibly delicious. I tried their famous Plantation Burger with an eight-ounce Wagyu beef patty, lots of organic vegetables, and a flavorful sauce; hands-down the best burger I’ve had in Maui.

They have a great bar with cocktails that you can get with brunch and draft beers.

We loved the brunch at The Plantation House and rate it as the best brunch in Kapalua, Maui. Here’s why you will too:

They have a nice kids menu with options like chicken tenders, pasta, and french toast.
Their menu has vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
The restaurant has a beautiful interior that’s perfect for a romantic date or celebration.

Address: 2000 Plantation Club Dr, Kapalua, Maui, HI 96761-8781.

Māla Ocean Tavern – Best Champagne Brunch in Maui

Māla Ocean Tavern is the best place you can visit in Maui for a celebration lunch because of its range of drinks and great champagne brunch. Coupled with beachfront views makes this an excellent place to enjoy a meal.

Their brunch menu features a variety of breakfast items, lunch entrees, salads, appetizers, and cocktails. Try their Seared Ahi Bruschetta with tomatoes, flaxseed toast, avocado toast, eggs benedict with tuna, and Caprese salad for scrumptious lunch items packed with flavor.

The best part is that every meal comes with a gluten-free substitute!

My boyfriend loves their Mala Breakfast Plate with eggs, hash, flaxseed toast, and choice of meat since it’s pretty fulfilling and delicious.

Pair your brunch with their Mac Nut Coconut Cold Brew or Mala Blend Coffee, and you might end up in a food coma for the rest of the day.

We loved this cozy restaurant, and the food here was to-die-for! It’s definitely the best Champagne brunch in Maui.

Their wait staff is attentive and pours your drinks throughout the meal.
You can see sea turtles swimming right from the patio!
They have live acoustic music during happy hour.
Make sure to get a reservation or wait in line for a table (they can usually get you one at lunchtime.)

Address: 1307 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761-1725.

Kula Lodge

If you’re going up to Haleakala National Park, don’t miss a stop afterward at Kula Lodge. The lodge is in a perfect spot to take in the gorgeous scenery of West Maui while eating the most delicious brunch.

We stopped at Kula Lodge after a roundtrip of the Park with our tour group, and everyone was hungry. Fortunately, the food came soon after we ordered.

I tried their famous Fish Sandwich, which has grilled Ono on a freshly baked bun, with slaw on the side – so delicious I practically inhaled it! Some other great brunch items include their gigantic Maui Cattle Burger with sweet potato chips, which is packed with flavor, fresh salad plates, and loco moco.

Another favorite at Kula Lodge is the build-your-own brick-oven pizza, which has a handmade crust, the juiciest San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and toppings of your choice. Our group ordered a few of these, and they taste incredible!

You’ll love the breathtaking views of landscaped gardens enjoyed from outdoor gazebos while having your meal, which makes Kula Lodge one of the best brunch places in Maui.

The lodge has a beautiful garden at the back with blooming flowers that you can take a walk in.
There’s a gift shop selling locally made souvenirs in a lot adjacent to the lodge.
The food at Kula Lodge is reasonably priced, especially for the fantastic taste, at around $25 per person for brunch.
Their menu has vegetarian options as well.

Address: 15200 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, Maui, HI 96790-8007.

MonkeyPod Kitchen

With three locations in Maui, this upscale restaurant run by Chef Peter Merriman serves fantastic brunch and should be on top of your list. However, since MonkeyPod is always crowded, you need to make reservations before coming.

They have an excellent brunch menu which starts with delicious finger food like roasted chicken wings, lobster devilled eggs, and poke tacos, all of which were super tasty.

After appetizers, you want to try their variety of mains. You’ll love the cheesy hand-tossed Margherita pizza, the cheeseburger with locally sourced beef packed with flavor, and the Saimin, with handmade noodles and fresh vegetables.

Also, they have a keiki menu, so even kids will enjoy the gourmet food here.

Don’t leave MonkeyPod without dessert since the banana pie, strawberry cheesecake, and chocolate pies are rich in flavor and crowd favorites.

We had the most amazing time at MonkeyPod Kitchen; with beach views on the outdoor patio and live music, this is surely one of the best brunches in Maui!

Visit during the happy hour starting at 3.30 pm and get discounts on your food.
Aside from reservations, you can put your name on the waitlist, and the servers call you when there’s a table free.
Their staff is excellent and keeps you entertained throughout.

Address: 10 Wailea Gateway Pl, Wailea, Maui, HI 96753-6527.

Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop – Best Brunch in Lahaina

Freshly made meals every day served farm-to-table with seasonal produce are just some of the great things about Leoda’s Kitchen. They’re a small setup in a cozy cafe that’s always crowded with tourists and locals having tasty brunch and even better pies.

They serve the most delicious sandwiches and hoagies. Try the Seared Ahi Sandwich with fresh sashimi, avocados, and garlic aioli, or their famous Cheesesteak hoagie with juicy striploin beef cuts and melted American cheese – and meet your next favorite sandwich!

Even though the menu is limited and changes seasonally, you can always get a terrific burger or sandwich here with great sides like Mac n Cheese and house-made potato salad.

As for the pies, they’re all very decadent, but our favorite was the Olowalu lime pie, and Apple crumble pie, with flaky butter pastry and fruity fillings.

Leoda’s Kitchen serves the best brunch in Lahaina, Maui, and here’s why you’ll agree:

The food is reasonably priced and will cost you between $20-30 for mains and a pie.
They have hearty salads and a kids menu as well.
Their pies come in bite-size pieces you can sample for free before buying a full one.

Address: 820 Olowalu Village Rd, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761-5779.

Gazebo – Best Sunday Brunch in Maui

Food with a view seems to be a trend in Maui since Gazebo offers outdoor poolside seating with excellent views of the Napili Bay Coast. Plus, they have all-day breakfast and lunch menus that are really delicious.

However, this is a famous spot, so big lines are waiting outside from their opening at 6 am.

From the breakfast menu, don’t miss their White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Pancakes; stacks of fluffy pancakes doused in their house-made coconut syrup, which are great for those with a sweet tooth.

Another favorite is their flavorsome fried rice plate filled with veggies, eggs, and meat.

Also, try their great lunch plates served with your choice of meat, steamed rice and papaya salad, and burgers with juicy beef, chicken, and even vegetable patties.

Even though this restaurant was hidden behind some buildings in the Napili Shores Condos, it was a great find and definitely the best Sunday brunch in Maui.

They have limited outdoor seating, so you can enjoy a peaceful meal with a view.
Their prices are pretty reasonable at nearly $20 per person without tips.
Their backdoor takeout is efficient, and you get your order within fifteen minutes.
They have tasty vegetarian options on their menu.

Address: 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd Napili Shores, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761-9005.

Kihei Caffe – Best Brunch in Kihei Maui

Ask anyone on the streets of Kihei which place has the best brunch, and they’ll direct you to Kihei Caffe. This small eatery has an outdoor seating area that looks onto the marketplace and amazing food to boot.

Their breakfast menu is famous among locals for the traditional loco moco served with homemade gravy and a delicious beef patty, crispy Belgian waffles, and cakey buttermilk pancakes with your choice of fruit.

We loved their breakfast items, but you should try the house specials for some savory goodness. The chicken-fried steak and eggs are super flavorful and come with sausage gravy, biscuits, and fries. Also, their Kalua Pork loco moco is a crowd favorite and has shredded pork over fluffy white rice, heaps of homemade gravy, and sunny side eggs.

The brunch at Kihei Caffe is unmissable for its excellent flavors and generous servings. Here’s why they’re the best brunch in Kihei, Maui:

Kihei Caffe has low prices for great quality food, at $15-20 per person for brunch.
They’re usually packed during the day, but you can get a seat after a short wait in line.
The staff is friendly and provides great service.

Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui, HI 96753-7836

Paia Bay Coffee Bar

Located in Paia town in a crowded market street, Paia Bay Coffee Bar is a terrific spot for brunch on your way to Road to Hana or just after a day of shopping in the chic town markets.

Their seeded bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon is a delicious option, and you can choose from various toppings according to your liking. In addition, their organic egg breakfast with goat cheese and salsa comes with a bagel on the side and is our favorite dish from their menu.

They also have fresh acai bowls and greek yogurt topped with papaya, lilikoi, bananas, and granola. Combine your brunch with their cold brew, house blend, or cafe latte, and you’ll be in a food coma for days!

We loved Paia Bay for its cozy atmosphere and small-town cafe setup. A must-try for anyone visiting Paia, as it’s one of the best brunch spots in Maui.

Their brunch menu is available all day from 7 am-8 pm (5.30 pm on Mon & Tue.)
Their Nutella croissant and banana bread are great dessert options.
They’re somewhat pricey, but the delicious food is well worth it.

Address: 115 Hana Hwy Unit G., Paia, Maui, HI 96779-9745.

Grandma’s Coffee House

Take a trip back to simpler times with diner-style food in a cozy setting and great coffee at Grandma’s Coffee House. This small cafe in Kula is a popular stop on the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park.

Catch the gorgeous sunrise from Haleakala and then drive to Kula to enjoy Grandma’s delicious brunch.

Their breakfast menu has the most delicious range of sweet and savory items. Their Coconut-crusted Sweet Bread French Toast, One Big Pancake, which is a single large pancake topped with butter, and the Keokea Omelet with tomato, basil, garlic, and feta cheese, are all mouth-watering meals that you’ve got to try.

The loco moco at Grandma’s is made with local Maui beef and tastes divine! We also loved their cheeseburger and Ono plates but you’ve got to try the food here yourself to pick a favorite.

Don’t forget to have a side of their rich coffee with your meal to enjoy the best brunch in Maui fully.

This family business is passed down from four generations that have grown and blended their coffee since 1918.
Their cinnamon rolls, banana squares, and pumpkin bread are delicious dessert items.
There’s free parking and bathrooms available across the road.

Address:9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, Maui, HI 96790-7423.

Colleens at the Cannery

Located inside a former pineapple cannery, Colleen’s has terrific breakfast and lunch options in a laid-back setting and at low prices. You can stop here on your way back from Haleakala National Park and enjoy a delicious brunch.

Locals love this place for breakfast, and the owner, Colleen, has a great chat with you while serving. You can try their sweet bread French toast for a sweet breakfast option, but we highly recommend getting the egg-stuffed croissant sandwiches with cheese and Maui tomatoes.

For lunch, their range of burgers and salads like the Upcountry Burger, Mahi-Mahi burger, and Kale salad are all made fresh and super delicious.

The best part about Colleen’s is their dedication to organic and locally sourced food, so you know you’re getting a clean meal.

We loved this small restaurant for its excellent service and delicious brunch. Here’s why you will too:

Their Hangover Cure, made of potatoes, cheese, tomatoes, and ham, is a local favorite.
The food here is cheap for the great quality, roughly $25 per person for brunch.
There are plenty of locals and Colleen’s who are always fun to chat with about Maui and its history.

Address: 810 Haiku Rd Suite 19, Haiku, Maui, HI 96708.

Winding Up: The Best Brunch in Maui

Maui is a traveler’s dream for its breathtaking views and landscape. Add delicious food to the mix and get yourself the perfect vacation spot. Even though there are plenty of fancy dinner places to enjoy on the island, the most fun you’ll have is at brunch, where you can enjoy terrific seaside views alongside your meal.

We’ve been coming to Maui for years now and can testify to the quality of its food and the variety of brunch items you won’t find anywhere else in Hawaii.

Take a food tour of Maui’s eateries, and I guarantee you’ll find the best food here.

Looking for a great spot for a Sunday brunch? Head to the Gazebo for a delicious brunch with a view.

Want to have great coffee with your meal? Try Paia Bay Coffee Bar and Grandma’s Coffee House.

Need a place to celebrate a special event? Don’t miss Mala Ocean Tavern and The Plantation House.

Maui’s restaurants have it all!

Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Brigitte