Maalaea Grill
In the days before automobiles every well-traveled road had an inn at the halfway point between settlements or cities. These days it only takes an hour to travel from West Maui to Kahului. Still, most of us are awash with a sense of relief after emerging from the wilderness as the last stretch of pali reveals civilization. (Is that because there’s no cell service during that hazardous, winding road?) In any case, if Maalaea Harbor is Maui’s version of the Half Day Rest Stop then Maalaea Grill is a traveler’s oasis.
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night there’s a “5 Star Buffet with 5 Star Views” from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. The buffet encompasses three looooong tables of tempting selections including Island Ceviche, Maalaea Lettuce Cups, Kim Chee Poke, Sushi du Jour, Kula Greens, pasta salads, fish salads, taco salad and so much more.
Sweet table at the Maalaea Grill Buffet
The biggest attraction is the main course choices of Prime Rib, Crab Legs, Mahi-mahi and melt-in-your- mouth Mac Nut Chicken. There are desserts galore and a chocolate fountain so everyone in your party will find something to thrill their taste buds. The harbor view is nice, but after paying the bill you’ll love the look or your wallet even more. Cost is only $29.95/adults, $14.95/keiki 5-12 and under 5 is free. However, if you arrive between 5-6 p.m or 8-9 p.m. and pay only $24.95! (Be seated anytime between 6-8 you’ll also net Kaama`aina discounts.)
Grilled Veggie Salad with Mahimahi and Quinoa
If you’re not up for the buffet or it’s unavailable, find equally delicious and well-priced choices from the regular menu. The “3 for 2” (chose 3, pay for 2) appetizer deal might be all you need. My companion and I went that route on our last visit, choosing the Seafood Tower (shrimp scampi, mahimahi tempura, and crab stuffed mushroom caps) for $14.95, the Seafood Bisque (a giant bowl for $7.95). The piece de resistance on the appetizer menu could serve as a full course dinner — the Mahimahi and Roasted Vegetable Salad ($14.94) is a generous plate overflowing with Kula Greens, quinoa, roasted veggies, topped with two generous portions of slightly blackened mahimahi. It’s one of my favorite dishes on Maui! There are really great wines by the glass at super prices and top-notch tropical drinks at Happy Hour rates.
Starting at 6:30 p.m., Benoit Jazz Works serenades diners with fun, funky, smooth and sassy sounds. If you haven’t had the pleasure before you owe it to yourself to enjoy this essentially free concert by exceptional musicians. Angela’s voice is like a dish of crème brulee and hubby Phil provide the perfect accompaniment on jazz guitar.
Angela and Phil Benoit Perform Th/F/Sat at Maalaea Grill
The lovely harbor side views, terrific food and drink at great values, along with wonderful entertainment, add up to a four tiki rating for Maalaea Grill, tops on our list when traveling through Maalaea.
Maalaea Grill
300 Maalaea Road
#300
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
808-243-2206
