Mama's Fish House

"A popular Polynesian-themed restaurant known for its fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views. It requires reservations well in advance due to its popularity." - Jen Murphy Jen Murphy Jen Murphy is an avid adventurer who splits her time between Colorado and Maui. She travels the globe pursuing passions that include surfing, snowboarding, cycling, and trail running and tries to

"A true Maui landmark, Mama’s Fish House has been serving seafood in this same location since 1973. Their menu is so local that it’s updated daily with the name of the fisherman, the location where the fish was caught, and what it likes to do on the weekends (OK, maybe not that last one). This place is located steps from the sand at Kuau Cove, so it’s about as beachfront as it gets. And despite the bamboo walls and thatched roof, Mama’s Fish House is a pretty upscale and intimate place—expect to spend upwards of $60 on entrées. Book early—like, three to six months early—or try your luck snagging one of the limited bar seats, which are reserved for walk-ins." - Team Infatuation

"At first glance, Mama’s comes across as a tourist snare; the South Pacific motif borders on kitschy and entrees cost an eye-popping $80. But this Polynesian fantasy has legitimate appeal. Waitstaff dressed in vintage Aloha wear deliver warm bread and amuse-bouches as salt air wafts in from the private cove. The kitchen’s consistency, honed by Maui-born executive chef Perry Bateman, justifies its international reputation. Each fish is listed along with who caught it and where — which, in an era of overfishing and mystery filets, is worth the price alone. Start with seared local octopus or grilled Haleakalā beef served in half a papaya, before diving into the fragrant bouillabaisse with saffron-scented chunks of Tristan lobster and Kauai shrimp. Reservations fill up months in advance, so book as early as possible." - Shannon Wianecki, Bill Addison

"A true Maui landmark, Mama’s Fish House has been serving seafood in this same location since 1973. Their menu is so local that it’s updated daily with the name of the fisherman, the location where the fish was caught, and what it likes to do on the weekends (OK, maybe not that last one). This place is located steps from the sand at Kuau Cove, so it’s about as beachfront as it gets. And despite the bamboo walls and thatched roof, Mama’s Fish House is a pretty upscale and intimate place—expect to spend upwards of $60 on entrees. Book early—like, three to six months early—or try your luck snagging one of the limited bar seats, which are reserved for walk-ins." - martha cheng, team infatuation

"Mama’s Fish House has earned the reputation as one of the very best restaurants on the island." - Travel + Leisure Editors