Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Local Style
The budget midday crowd enjoys the plate lunches at
Nellie's Bistro
(126 Hana Hwy.,
808/579-8252, 7am-7pm Mon.-Sat., 7:30am-3pm Sun., $8), which can be eaten on the out-
door patio. There's talk of converting the bistro (which is more of a coffee shop and deli)
into a larger restaurant and bar. For now, enjoy the relaxing spot to grab a lunch that won't
break the bank.
Seafood
M
Mama's Fish House
(799 Poho Pl., 808/579-9764,
www.mamasfishhouse.com
,
11am-2:30pm and 4:15pm-9pm daily, $20-40 lunch, $28-55 dinner) has become synonym-
ous with Maui dining. Many in its cult-like following claim that if you haven't been to
Mama's, you've never been to Maui. The oceanfront location is unbeatable, the romantic
ambience is better than anywhere on the island, and the fish is so fresh that the menu not
only tells you where your fish was caught that morning, it tells you who caught it. Prepare
for a meal where the beauty of Polynesia is evident in every bite. It's a once-in-a-lifetime
splurge that's well worth it. Call well in advance for reservations (timing your meal for
sunset is best). To get there, travel a mile past the town of Pa'ia as if headed to Hana; just
as the road meets up with the ocean again, you'll see the Mama's Fish House sign and the
entry to Kuau Cove.
While your hotel concierge will recommend Mama's, the local surfer will point you
11am-9:30pm daily, $10), on the corner of the only stoplight in town. Lines stretch out the
door for the popular ono and mahi burgers. My personal favorite is the ahi burger. Pair
your fish with a draft Hefeweizen, locally canned Bikini Blonde lager, or maybe even a
glass of wine.
Mexican
On the
other
corner of Pa'ia's only stoplight, separated by the bustling crosswalk,
M
Mil-
agros
(3 Baldwin Ave., 808/579-8755,
www.milagrosfoodcompany.com
, 11am-10pm
daily, $10-18) is known for Mexican fare with a funky island twist, enormous portions,
and the best happy hour in town. The black bean nachos, ahi burrito, and blackened ahi
