Maui Restaurants by John D.

Based on our most recent trip to Maui (July '94), I would recommend the
following restaurants:

1. The best two (taking into consideration setting, quality, type of
cuisine and value) - Roy's Nicolina in Kahana (Roy's is very good as
well but Nicolina has a little more variety and is a little less
expensive), the pacific rim cuisine here is unique and delicious.  Be
sure to order their special dessert (order with your entree since it
takes 20 minutes to bake).  Its a chocolate souffle filled with hot
melted chocolate - get it ala mode, its out of this world.  Also,
Jacquie's flatbreads make a great appetizer.

The other restaurant I would say ties for the best is the Lanai Terrace
in the Maui-Intercontinental Hotel in Wailea.  They have themed buffet
dinners (Asian on Tuesday, Pasta on Wednesday, Sunset Grill on
Thursday, Seafood on Friday and Prime Rib on Saturday).  The view is
spectacular (get there 1/2hour before sunset) and the food is great.  I
particularly recommend the Sunset Grill, an extravagant salad bar with
a variety of grilled entrees and sauces to mix and match - excellent!
And to top it off, they have an unbelievable display of desserts, all
included in your fixed price meal.  Do not miss this - best value on
the island!

2. Authentic Mexican - Casa De Mateo in Lahaina.  The food here is very
authentic (notice that most of the help speaks primarily spanish, not
english), very good, and moderately priced.  Be sure to try the
Guacamole appetizer - they make it fresh at yuour table.

3. If in Makawao (upcountry) (and, if not - GO THERE), stop at Casanova
for the best italian food in Hawaii (actually, its the best italian
food I've had in a long time).  Be advised Makawao isn't your typical
tourist stop, so don't expect the fancy beach settings you find
elsewhere.  Instead, settle in at the homey setting for some great food
and entertainment (they usually have live entertainment several nights
a week).  Try any pasta dish!

4. In Kapalua, the seafood buffet at the Garden in the Kapalua Bay
Hotel on Friday is well recommended.  However, I'd advise checking
first to see what they will be serving - it sometimes is more upscale
and may not suit everyone's taste.  For instance the day I was there,
it was primarily a variety of shellfish and a large variety of sushi.

5. In Kaanapali, I found the Villa RTestaurant at the Westin Maui to be
very overpriced, although the food was good and it is a nice setting.

6. For a casual lunch or dinner, in Lahaina, Cheeseburger in Paradise
is a fun stop, although it too, I found a little pricey for what you
get.

7. The Kihei Prime Rib and Seafood House serves great prime rib, albeit
at a steep price.

8. Finally, try one of several restaurants in the Grand Wailea.  While
they are pricey, the food is excellent and the settings fantastic.  The
Japanese Restaurant is one of the best, and their main dining room is
a fabulous setting.  Also, Hummuhummu . . . . .  serves excellent fish
in a floating hut on a lagoon.  While there, be sure to stroll thru
their grounds, they are fantastic!

Please email me with any updates or comments you have after you've
tried any of these.  Thanks

JFD61