Best Italian Restaurants in Maui: Authentic Cuisine Awaits!
Welcome fellow Italian food lovers!
My partner and I are suckers for authentic Italian food in Maui. It’s been years of flavor-filled bliss, and now I’m eager to spread the love.
Having put my passion for pasta, pizza, and Italian delicacies to good use, I’ve eaten and reviewed my way through the best Italian restaurant in Maui. Now, I’m thrilled to unveil Maui’s four finest Italian eateries. Believe me; these places offer real Italian dishes, cozy environments, welcoming service, and fair prices. What’s not to adore?
Picture this: You’re basking in stunning Maui vistas while savoring irresistible Italian dishes like ravioli or arancini. These top Italian cuisine in Maui cater to all – perfect for either romantic dates at romantic Italian restaurants in Maui or unforgettable family get-togethers at Italian family restaurants.
But be warned, once you begin exploring these recommended Italian eateries on Maui, you may struggle to keep yourself from dining out nightly. But then again, that’s why we love our stretchy pants!
So, raise a glass of delightful Italian wine from the excellent Italian wine selection Maui offers, and let’s start this scrumptious adventure together. Bon appétit!
Sale Pepe – Best Italian Restaurant in Lahaina, Maui
A casual eatery serving mouth-watering flavors of Italy’s finest, Sale Pepe is the only restaurant you need to visit if you’re looking for authentic Italian flavors. The husband-wife duo who run Sale Pepe are from Milan and Brooklyn, and each brings some part of Italian food from their hometowns to the table.
We’ve been eating from Sale Pepe’s for a while now, and everything on their menu is terrific. Start with the Crostini chicken liver pate on freshly baked bread, followed by the crispy Arancini stuffed with fresh mozzarella.
Don’t miss their terrific pasta – the Strozzapreti with a rich beef cheek ragu and the Ricotta Ravioli that’s melt-in-your-mouth soft and bursting with flavor. My boyfriend always gets their delicious pizza special of the day baked on a custom stove.
Sale Pepe is the best Italian restaurant in Lahaina, Maui for terrific food and a cozy dine-in. Here’s why you’ll agree:
- The food comes out slow, European style, and in big portions, so there’s time to savor each dish.
- They’re usually crowded but accept walk-ins any time of the week.
- Their prices are reasonable compared to other Italian places on Maui.
Address: 878 Front St Units 7 & 8, Lahaina, Maui, HI.
Matteo’s Osteria – Best Italian Restaurant in Wailea
Run by Maui’s award-winning Chef Matteo and doling out exceptional Italian meals every day, Matteo’s Osteria is a must-visit if you’re in Wailea. They have a special menu every night with the Chef’s recommended meals and a larger dinner menu to choose from. However, Matteo’s gets crowded quickly, so get reservations before going.
From their ever-changing menu, get the Bruschetta as a starter, served on a crispy loaf with the juiciest fresh tomatoes. They also have excellent seafood specials made from fresh catch daily, like the pan-seared Mahi Mahi with delectable sides.
We love their Burrata Salad Special topped with peaches, snap peas, fennel, and tender prosciutto. My Gnocchi with potato dumplings was super creamy, but my boyfriend’s lasagna, made from two types of beef, stole the show!
In addition, everything on Matteo’s menu can be customized according to gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. No wonder they’re the best Italian restaurant in Wailea!
- They have an extensive wine cellar, and the servers allow you to tour it.
- There’s a great kids menu, and the staff caters to children well.
- The prices are well worth the food, ranging from $25 to $ 50, depending on your meal.
Address: 161 Wailea Ike Pl Suite A107, Wailea, Maui, HI.
Fabiani’s Bakery and Pizza – Best Italian Restaurant in Kihei
Kihei’s laid-back vibe is the perfect setting for this relaxed and friendly cafe, run by Italian chef couple Michelle and Lorenzo. Fabiani’s Bakery and Pizza has become a Maui favorite since they opened a few years back for their unbeatable thin-crust pizza and delectable baked Italian goods.
Stop by breakfast hour to get Hawaiian-Italian fusion food like a delicious Italian Loco Moco, breakfast classics like Eggs Benedict, and a range of freshly baked croissants.
We come to Fabiano’s for the pizza, which you can get half off during pizza happy hour. Enjoy delicious flavors like the Maui Meaty with Italian sausage and the Lorenzo white pizza with mushrooms, mozzarella, and a drizzle of truffle oil.
You’ll love the fusion food at Fabiano’s, and keep coming back here as they’re the best Italian restaurant in Kihei.
- Try the Tiramisu cheesecake from their extensive dessert case, which is incredibly rich and creamy.
- The service at Fabiano’s is really friendly and efficient.
- Their prices are the cheapest for Italian food on Maui, from $15-25 for big portions.
Address: 95 Lipoa Street Suite 101, Kihei, Maui, HI.
Taverna Maui – Best Italian Restaurant in Kapalua
Find Taverna in the heart of the Kapalua Resort, an award-winning Italian restaurant specializing in delicious, authentic flavors of the cuisine. Taverna overlooks the resort’s expansive golf course, for which you can get the lovely outdoor lanai seating and enjoy food with a view.
Taverna is famed for their Spaghetti Carbonara, the best on the island, and cooked the traditional way with a creamy sauce and pancetta bits. However, my boyfriend and I loved their Fritto Misto, made with crusted shrimp, calamari, a tangy chili tomato jam, and a citrus punch from the lemon aioli.
In addition, everything at Taverna is prepared to order, from hand-rolled pasta, fresh seafood, and juicy cuts of steak.
The fine-dining experience at Taverna is unmissable, as they’re one of the best Italian restaurants in Kapalua. Here’s why you’ll agree:
- Their menu has delicious vegan and vegetarian-friendly options.
- The service is attentive, and the servers make great suggestions based on your dietary needs.
- Their prices range from $25-50.
Address: 2000 Village Rd 2000 Village Rd., Kapalua, Maui, HI.
Wrapping Up: The Best Italian Restaurant Maui
Maui’s Italian food scene is the best you can find in Hawaii, from local Italian chefs preparing the most delicious food, perfected over years of culinary experience. You’ll find luxurious fine dining and homely cafes in Maui’s Italian eateries and sample authentic flavors of Rome, Milan, and Naples.
Try the best pasta in Maui at Sale Pepe and Taverna Maui.
Enjoy seafood specials and terrific meats at Matteo’s Osteria.
Head to Fabiano’s for the best Italian-style pizza and sweets.
Italian restaurants in Maui are a treat for everyone!
Best Italian Food on Maui
| Restaurant | Location | Highlights & Specialties | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sale Pepe | Lahaina | – European-style slow service with big portions – Crowded but accepts walk-ins – Reasonable prices compared to other Maui Italian restaurants | 878 Front St Units 7 & 8, Lahaina, Maui, HI |
| Matteo’s Osteria | Wailea | – Extensive wine cellar with tours – Kid-friendly with special menu – Prices range from $25 to $50 | 161 Wailea Ike Pl Suite A107, Wailea, Maui, HI |
| Fabiani’s Bakery and Pizza | Kihei | – Tiramisu cheesecake dessert – Friendly and efficient service – Most affordable Italian on Maui with prices from $15-25 | 95 Lipoa Street Suite 101, Kihei, Maui, HI |
| Taverna Maui | Kapalua | – Vegan and vegetarian menu options – Attentive service with dietary suggestions – Prices range from $25-50 | 2000 Village Rd 2000 Village Rd., Kapalua, Maui, HI |
FAQ
What makes Maui Italian restaurants stand out when it comes to Italian food?
Maui restaurants are known for their exceptional Italian cuisine, prepared with local ingredients sourced locally. These delightful dishes often incorporate homemade pastas and flavors reminiscent of traditional Italian cuisine.
Can you recommend an Italian dish that showcases the best of Maui’s culinary scene?
The lamb osso bucco is a highlight among the best Italian food offerings in Maui. This slow-cooked, tender meat dish is a testament to the perfectly prepared food and quality ingredients found in these island establishments.
Why are homemade pastas preferred at Maui’s top Italian eateries?
Homemade pastas bring an unparalleled level of authenticity and quality to any dish. The fresh daily preparation ensures rich flavors meld harmoniously within each delicious bite, setting these Maui restaurants apart from others.
Are there any coastal-inspired dishes worth trying at Maui’s best Italian food establishments?
Absolutely! Many of the island’s finest Italian restaurants take full advantage of their seaside location, incorporating fresh daily seafood into their menu. From succulent fish to mouth-watering shellfish, these oceanic offerings add a unique flare to traditional Italian cuisine.
Can you recommend an Italian restaurant with outdoor seating in Maui?
Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante is a fantastic option for those seeking Italian cuisine and outdoor seating. Located in the Four Seasons Maui, this resort Maui staple offers a beautiful patio that allows you to enjoy the delightful ambiance while savoring delicious dishes.
What makes The Pour House a popular choice for Italian food lovers in Maui?
The Pour House is known for its exquisite Italian cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike who appreciate high-quality meals paired with an extensive full bar wine selection.
Despite being in Maui Hawaii, a meal at these esteemed establishments feels like a culinary tour to Italy, even though they’re miles away from places like Las Vegas or Lahaina. And the good news for those with dietary restrictions, these restaurants often offer gluten-free options, ensuring every guest can enjoy the offerings of Ferraro Maui and other Italian hotspots.
Last Updated on August 13, 2023 by Brigitte