Best Restaurants in Paia: Top 6 Must-Try Places Revealed!

Welcome fellow food lovers!

Let me tell you about the culinary adventure my boyfriend and I embarked upon in Paia, Maui. Known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Paia also boasts a vibrant food scene that will leave you craving for more. We dove into this foodie paradise with our taste buds ready for action, and after many delightful bites, I’ve compiled the absolute best restaurants for you to enjoy during your visit.

I hold a special place in my heart for food and travel, and have spent years tasting the flavors of the world. From delving into local food cultures to devouring new and exotic dishes, I feel qualified to guide you to the most enticing eateries of Paia, based on my personal experiences.

The type of person who might be reading this article is likely a fellow food enthusiast, someone who delights in culinary exploration and is passionate about authentic, mouth-watering meals. I truly believe life is too short for mediocre dining, so sit back, relax, and let me lead you on a thrilling gastronomical journey!

One of the standout features of these six must-visit Paia restaurants is their unique ambiance and distinctive charm, adding sprinkles of magic to your dining experience. Trust me, as someone who’s dined in many places.

Island Fresh Café – Jumpstart Your Day with Mouthwatering Healthy Fare

Embark on a refreshing morning adventure in Paia by enjoying the array of fresh, healthy, and delicious options at Island Fresh Café. Catering to both vegan and non-vegan palates, this cozy haven offers a relaxed atmosphere for your first meal of the day.

Following our excursion to Haleakala, we were blown away not only by Island Fresh Café’s one-of-a-kind location but also its inviting ambience and undeniable freshness. Every bite was an explosion of flavor intermingled with impeccable service that exceeded all our expectations. From guiding us to our table upon arrival to preparing our order within 15 minutes, their hospitality amazed us every step of the way.

The friendly staff extended outstanding recommendations as they took down our orders while also engaging in some pleasant chitchat. The café itself exudes cleanliness and organization through beautiful decor choices.

Although slightly on the pricier side, Island Fresh Café ensures you start your day properly without compromising taste or exceeding caloric intake limits. A visit here is undoubtedly worth it.
Here are my takeaways from dining at Island Fresh Café:

• Comfortable surroundings complemented by an enchanting ambiance
• An amiable staff eager to assist guest needs
• Delectable dishes boasting tantalizingly fresh ingredients

Paia Bay Coffee Bar – Best Breakfast Restaurant in Paia

For another fantastic breakfast spot in Paia, look no further than Paia Bay Coffee Bar. Its cozy island atmosphere combined with delectable breakfast choices instantly set it apart from the rest. As you revel in your meal, let the ocean breeze playfully tease your senses.

What truly distinguishes this place is its exquisite coffee offerings that pair exceptionally well with morning strolls along the charming settings of Paia—an unforgettable experience we’ll always cherish.

Apart from providing exceptional food and beverage options, Paia Bay Coffee Bar also places you within nature’s stunning embrace as you soak up panoramic island views. The live music adds yet another layer to the alluring aura entwining the establishment.

Both my boyfriend and I found solace here on multiple occasions—he would dig into a hearty breakfast plate while I sipped on invigorating coffee and nibbled on buttery croissants. Every moment spent at this haven of tranquility was time well savored.
Here’s what makes Paia Bay Coffee Bar a must-visit:

• A lowkey vibe accentuated by soothing live music
• Deliciously satisfying breakfast options guaranteed to win hearts
• Their top-notch coffee elevates every visit to new heights

Milagro’s – Best Paia Restaurant for Lunch

When it comes to delightful vegan fare that caters to all food enthusiasts, look no further than Milagro’s. Serving organic, healthy and utterly delicious dishes in every meal type—be it brunch, lunch or snack—their offerings will not disappoint.

Regarded as a personal favorite spot of mine in Paia, they boast an extensive menu complemented by exceptional restaurant service. It was difficult choosing between delectable options like the burrito I enjoyed and the skillfully prepared fajitas my boyfriend ordered—both richly flavored and perfectly juicy.

Our stop at Milagro’s after our bike ride down Hana Highway could not have been better timed; we were famished! The generous portions went above and beyond satisfying our hunger—I had so much to eat that I ended up packing some for later. Yet rest assured: quality is never compromised despite such ample servings.

Counting down the days until I revisit this incredible gem soon!
The stand-out features of this restaurant include:

• An array of fresh, organic vegan and gluten-free choices
• Swift service tailored for your satisfaction
• Generous serving sizes without compromising flavor or freshness

Vana Paia – Upscale Seafood Dining in a Tranquil Ambiance

When seeking the finest seafood experience, Vana Paia unquestionably serves as your ultimate destination. Having read countless glowing reviews, I visited this establishment to determine if it lived up to its reputation—and it consistently exceeded expectations.

The moment you step into Vana Paia, you sense an unmatched level of sophistication—it transcends not only through their top-notch cuisine but also in the exquisite atmosphere they’ve crafted. The staff is always courteous and attentive without overwhelming your dining experience.

While at first glance the menu might seem limited, each dish offers unparalleled freshness and flavor—their selection delivers memorable taste sensations that leave you craving more. Our order included spicy tuna, dragon roll, and a special sushi dinner—all bursting with distinct tastes and textures sure to please even the most discerning palate.

My one reservation about Vana Paia is its price tag—this luxury comes at a premium cost. However, for those looking to treat themselves during their stay or celebrate a special occasion without breaking the bank completely, consider an evening savored here.
What makes Vana Paia truly outstanding:

• Exceptional quality seafood prepared skillfully
• A serene ambiance enhanced by impeccable service
• An inviting bar area complete with delightful drinks

Thai Spice – Immerse Yourself in Exquisite Thai Flavors and a Homey Ambiance

For an unforgettable culinary journey of authentic Thai cuisine right in Paia, head over to Thai Spice, where one meal will leave you craving more. To encapsulate my dining experience here in just one word: life-changing.

Envision biting into a dish so delectable it sends your taste buds soaring—and there’s no better testament to such joy than breaking out into an impromptu happy dance. This accurately describes our spur-of-the-moment visit to this unmatched gem.

After indulging ourselves with crispy Mahi Mahi stir fry, drunken noodles, and sumptuous masaman curry, we were wholly satisfied by both the generous portions offered and the harmonious blend of flavors that graced our table—all richly satisfying and wonderfully balanced.

The warm embrace of traditional Thai cooking envelops every patron—a familiar comfort combined with the friendly attentiveness of restaurant staff ensures each visit is nothing short of magical. Amidst a calming atmosphere lies impeccably clean surroundings accentuating its charm.
What speaks volumes about Thai Spice:

• Generous portion sizes designed for total satisfaction
• A serene ambiance providing heartfelt warmth
• Masterfully created dishes boasting well-balanced flavors
• Immaculate cleanliness reflecting their commitment to maintaining excellent standards

Uptown – Best Food Truck in Paia

Nestled amidst the peaceful Zen garden of Paia, Uptown is an unassuming food truck that absolutely deserves your attention and admiration. Deceptively low-key at first glance, this hidden gem offers delectable lunches you won’t want to miss.

Operated by passionate Italians who understand the art of wood-firing their delicacies, Uptown truly brings Italy’s flavors to Maui. The soothing background music further enhances the already enchanting atmosphere present within the serene garden setting.

Their pizzas remain unrivaled in Paia—incredibly scrumptious with a perfect balance between fresh dough and mouthwatering toppings. The sauce adds another layer of richness to each bite. Additionally, their burgers boast succulent patties cooked impeccably within moist buns that dance on your taste buds.

The selection of drinks available complements not only the exquisite flavors but also harmonizes with Uptown’s overall ambiance. While striking up conversations with the lovely proprietors, my appreciation for their culinary mastery grew even deeper.
My personal highlights about this idyllic spot:

• Owned and operated by seasoned Italians keen on delivering authentic tastes
• Its unique location boasts a refreshing chilliness that intensifies when indulging in warm oven-baked goodies
• The kind-hearted owners are always ready to engage with guests and ensure memorable experiences

Final Thoughts

Paia is a small Maui area known for its restaurants, art galleries, and surf shops. It’s also a recognized surf town, located on Maui’s north shore. It was among the top 5 places we planned to visit. When we arrived here, we were baffled to see how many cultures and traditions live here. And the most effective way to explore those cultures was through their tasty food.

These Paia restaurants are a mix of family owned restaurants, sushi places, and cafes offering everything from amazing sushi to vegan food, and even indian home cooking. They not only give you a glimpse of the island’s diversity but also serve fresh seafood, fresh fruit, and their fresh salads are a quick bite to relish. For a more substantial meal, consider the crispy duck burger from Cafe Mambo or fish tacos from Paia Fish Market.

Try the mac salad at Island Fresh Cafe, you’ll appreciate the great flavor and great service they offer. If you’re a fan of thai food, Flatbread Pizza Company has a vegetarian mediterranean platter that brings a unique twist to traditional Thai cuisine. For fine dining, Mama’s Fish House is the best restaurant in town, with outdoor seating available for an intimate dining experience.

The only reason we kept exploring was to find more of these best meals. Mama’s Fish House, for example, offers an outdoor dining experience that can’t be missed. They serve fresh fish in their famous fish sandwich, which can easily be considered one of the best restaurants experiences on the island.

And don’t forget about the great food at the Paia Fish Market. Their sushi rolls are a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. The fresh seafood combined with their unique flavors makes it a standout amongst the restaurants in Paia.

Last Updated on May 28, 2023 by Brigitte