Best Loco Moco in Maui: Taste Paradise at This Hidden Gem!
Aloha and welcome, fellow loco moco lovers!
Everyone adores the loco moco Maui has to offer, right? Your initial encounter with this Hawaiian local food can be akin to discovering a hidden gem in the world of Maui traditional cuisine. Lucky for you, I’ve taken up the tasty task of pinpointing the top loco moco spots Maui is famous for!
My partner and I have journeyed through numerous local Maui restaurants, fulfilling his endless craving for the divine combo of a fluffy rice bed, succulent beef patty, perfectly fried eggs, and flavorful gravy – the authentic recipe of Hawaiian loco moco. When it comes to loco moco, we mean serious business.
Let’s be clear – Maui’s famous loco moco is an absolute delight. Whether you’re a stickler for the traditional or you’re searching for choices like vegetarian or vegan versions (or even healthier ones), my quest led me straight to the heart of mouth-watering perfection.
Heads up: This article might send your cravings through the roof!
Brace yourselves as we set sail on a thrilling Maui culinary experience, unraveling the secrets to finding the best loco moco Hawaii offers. Tuck in because Maui loco moco recommendations don’t get better than this. Enjoy your Hawaii comfort food adventure!
808 Grindz Cafe – Best Loco Moco in Lahaina, Maui
Real loco moco enthusiasts know that the flavor is all in the gravy, and no one does gravy better than 808 Grindz Cafe. That’s why you’ll always find a crowd outside this restaurant and a thirty-minute wait before service.
But the wait is worth it since they have the best breakfast menu, a casual setting, and great staff. Plus, a section in the menu is for loco moco, so you can find variations of the dish with short ribs, spam, and pork chops.
Our favorite is the loco moco with Portuguese sausage and the Hawaiian grilled steak loco moco; all served with two eggs, fried rice, and their heavenly gravy. If you love trying out different meat options, you’ll also love these.
808 Grindz Cafe serves the best loco moco in Maui and other great food. Here’s why you have to visit:
- This is the cheapest place to get great food; two people can eat for $20-30 (excluding tip) for mains and drinks.
- Their portion sizes are huge!
- Try their Pancakes with Ube Coconut Sauce and Eggs Benedict for other delicious options.
Address: 843, Waine’e Street, Lahaina, HI. 96761.
Kihei Caffe – Best Loco Moco in Kihei, Maui
Kihei Caffe is the undisputed king of loco moco in Kihei, Maui. They have a hole-in-the-wall setting with limited seating that stays packed all day. But don’t let the crowds deter you since the lines move quickly, and you get a seat within twenty minutes.
Try their mouth-watering ‘Kalua style’ loco moco, which comes in pulled pork instead of beef. Combined with their homemade biscuits, gravy, and fresh orange juice, makes this an unmissable meal.
Another thing we loved about Kihei Caffe was the chickens roaming around, clucking, and stopping under tables, which is common in Kihei streets (if you feed one, get ready to feed them all.)
Kihei Caffe is a great place to stop after roaming around the marketplace and enjoy the best loco moco in Maui. Here’s what makes it better:
- If you don’t want to wait in lines, go early and enjoy a quiet breakfast (they open at 6 am.)
- Their menu has tasty breakfast options like Portuguese sweet-bread French Toast, Huevos Rancheros, and fresh fruit with yogurt.
- You’ll have to give your table up as soon as you’re done to make a place for others waiting.
Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753.
Nalu’s South Shore Grill – Best Vegetarian Loco Moco Maui
Nalu’s is an excellent option if you’re looking for a vegetarian loco moco, which includes flavors like spinach, tofu, and quinoa. Also, they have a range of items outside the usual breakfast menu, like their excellent chicken and waffles, and apple brie burger.
However, you can also get the traditional loco moco which includes a locally sourced patty, brown/wild rice, two eggs, homemade gravy, and a macaroni side salad.
You need to wait 20-30 minutes outside for a table. But once you get in, place your order with the server before getting seated. Their staff is incredibly efficient and gets the food out pretty soon after.
We loved this place’s chilled and laid-back ambiance, combined with live music in the evenings, making it a great spot for couples and families.
You’ll love Nalu’s and keep coming back for their loco moco. Here’s what makes it great:
- The staff will alter menu items accordingly if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions.
- Their flavors are authentic Hawaiian but with a more flavorful touch.
- The portion sizes are big, and the prices are reasonable (around $20-30 per head.)
Address: 1280 South Kihei Road, Ste 132, Azeka Shopping Center, Makai Kihei, Hawaii 96753
Moku Roots – Best Gluten-free Loco Moco Maui
You don’t have to be vegan to eat at this hidden gem in Lahaina, Maui. They’re dedicated to zero-waste and serve scrumptious, healthy food packed in flavor.
Their loco moco has pineapple and vegetable fried rice topped with a taro patty and avocado or egg (get this: the loco moco is served inside a pineapple!)
This was the most innovative take on loco moco we’d tried and basically devoured the whole thing.
Besides the loco moco, their favorite menu items are oven-baked potato wedges, raw pad thai, cauliflower, falafel wrap, and lavender lemonade.
We loved the welcoming vibe and friendly staff here that’s dedicated to serving food with a conscience. Here’s why you will too:
- Takeout comes wrapped in leaves or reusable containers. You can also bring your own.
- They sell the famous Maui Gold pineapple for $2.60.
- There are no disposable dishes or cutlery – everything is washable, and the napkins are bandannas!
- The food is locally sourced, farm-to-table.
Address: 335 Keawe St. #211 Lahaina, HI 96761.
Wrapping Up: The Best Loco Moco in Maui
When you get tired of resort buffets and hotel breakfasts, head straight to Maui’s streets and try their delicious loco moco and other great street food items. I promise the food in Maui won’t disappoint, and you’ll keep coming back for more.
Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, vegan, or even looking to eat healthy, the variety of loco moco filling Maui’s streets will have all your cravings covered. Just remember to bring a to-go box with you since the portion sizes are no joke!
Maui’s food scene truly is unmatched! *chef’s kiss*
Where to Get Loco Moco in Maui
| Cafe/Restaurant | Location | Highlights | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| 808 Grindz Cafe | Lahaina, Maui | – Best breakfast menu – Gravy is the key – Variations of loco moco dish – Prices: $20-30 for two – Huge portion sizes – Try: Pancakes with Ube Coconut Sauce & Eggs Benedict | 843, Waine’e Street, Lahaina, HI. 96761 |
| Kihei Caffe | Kihei, Maui | – Hole-in-the-wall setting – Quick seating – ‘Kalua style’ loco moco – Chickens roaming around – Opens at 6 am – Diverse breakfast menu – Efficient table turnover | 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753 |
| Nalu’s South Shore Grill | Maui | – Vegetarian options – Traditional loco moco available – 20-30 min wait time – Efficient service – Live music evenings – Allergies & dietary restrictions accommodation – Prices: around $20-30 per head | 1280 South Kihei Road, Ste 132, Azeka Shopping Center, Makai Kihei, Hawaii 96753 |
| Moku Roots | Lahaina, Maui | – Zero-waste commitment – Loco moco served in a pineapple – Wide variety of menu items – Eco-friendly practices – Locally sourced, farm-to-table food | 335 Keawe St. #211 Lahaina, HI 96761 |
FAQ
What is the specialty of Da Kitchen when it comes to classic loco mocos in Kahului?
Da Kitchen serves an amazing classic loco moco in Kahului that includes a mouth-watering hamburger patty, white rice, two eggs, and delicious brown gravy. This Hawaiian dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. You may also want to try their variant of loco moco with fried rice for an interesting twist.
What are the common ingredients of a traditional Hawaiian style Loco Moco?
A traditional Hawaiian style Loco Moco typically consists of white rice topped with juicy hamburger patties or Portuguese sausage, fried eggs, and smothered in brown gravy. It’s usually served with a side of macaroni salad or other local sides, making it a staple of Hawaiian food.
How does the addition of Portuguese sausage enhance my Loco Momo experience?
Adding Portuguese sausage to your loco moco dish brings an extra layer of flavor complexity due to its smoky and slightly spicy taste profile. This ingredient elevates your meal by providing a unique twist that complements the rich brown gravy and tender white rice perfectly. For a bit of a kick, you might even sprinkle a touch of chili pepper.
What is the best loco moco dish I can try on the Hawaiian Islands, especially in West Maui?
If you’re in West Maui, visit Kihei Caffe for a delicious loco moco experience. Their Kalua style loco moco with kalua pork instead of beef is considered one of the best on the Hawaiian Islands. To accompany your meal, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended.
Which Honolulu restaurant offers a delicious dish that combines cheese, bacon, and teriyaki flavors near Waikiki?
While exploring Oahu’s culinary scene near Waikiki in Honolulu, try searching for establishments that specialize in unique fusion dishes that mix ingredients like cheese, bacon, and teriyaki beef into their menu offerings. For seafood lovers, keep an eye out for fish tempura on the menu, a light and crispy delight!
Are there any notable lunch spots near Lincoln Grill where I can enjoy some famous delicious Loco Mocos as The Notorious B.I.G. did?
Although it’s unclear whether The Notorious B.I.G. had a favorite spot for loco mocos near Lincoln Grill specifically, you might want to explore nearby eateries known for their tasty variations of this classic island comfort food during your lunchtime adventures. Hilo, Hawaii has a renowned food scene, and if you’re ever in Maui, Hawaii, you can enjoy a meal at the Maui Bus Stop or the Maui Brewing Company. Whether you’re after a traditional moco recipe, Hawaiian breakfast, or some contemporary cuisine, you’ll find plenty to savor here.
Also, don’t miss out on trying the Aloha Mixed Plate when you’re in Maui for an authentic Hawaiian food experience. For seafood lovers, a dish with shrimp or fish, perhaps prepared tempura-style, can provide a delightful contrast to the savory, hearty flavors of the loco moco.
Where can I find the best loco moco in Kaanapali, Hawaii Island?
In Kaanapali on the beautiful Hawaii Island, a local favorite spot for the best loco moco is Da Kitchen. They serve classic loco moco made of hamburger patties topped with two eggs and delicious gravy. They also have outdoor seating.
Last Updated on August 13, 2023 by Brigitte