I don’t always partake in fancy dining in Maui, but when I do, I eat at the wildly sought after Mama’s Fish House in Paia. Brian and I long ago decided that Mama’s is best restaurant we’ve been to. Consequently, when we’re planning our Maui trips, we plan around the assumption that at least one night will be Mama’s night. After all, there are few things better in this life than drinking Mai Tai’s and enjoying crab-stuffed mahi mahi overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Outside the beloved Mama’s Fish House, Maui, Hawaii
Getting here
Mama’s is located on the north shore of Maui directly on Ho’okipa Beach, 1.5 miles past Paia on the Road to Hana (the Hana Highway). We’re not ones to miss out on fancy cocktails, so we typically plan our accommodations around it. In that vein, I recommend The Inn at Mama’s Fish House for the two-minute commute option. Alternatively, staying in Paia (we loved the Paia Inn) or Makawao (channel your inner Gwyneth and go hippie bougie at the Lumeria Maui) allows for a quick, convenient Uber ride.
The welcome station outside Mama’s Fish House
I’ve been to the family-owned eatery three times now: twice for dinner, once for lunch. Admittedly, some might find the experience might be a bit decadent for the daytime. However, the open-air dining and beautiful Pacific Ocean views make a strong argument for enjoying a lunch here. (That said, if you’re here at night and missing the view, fear not: the Koa wood decor and laid-back Polynesian atmosphere is lovely.)
Gorgeous Pacific Ocean views and open-air dining at Mama’s Fish House
What to Order
The cuisine at Mama’s Fish House in Paia relies on the local fishermen. Catches are caught, prepared, and served within 24 hours. As a result, the freshness and quality of the seafood is unmatched.
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Freshly caught seafood at Mama’s Fish House
Although Mama’s makes a reliably perfect Mai Tai (no surprise there), the cocktail menu is extensive. You really can’t go wrong with any of the choices.
Beautiful Polynesian cocktails at Mama’s Fish House
I highly recommend making reservations well in advance; you can reserve a table through OpenTable.
