Restaurants near Haleakala Crater

First... Waiter Adam C was outstanding!!!!! My husband had the Chilean Sea Bass and I had the Sanibel Chicken... both delicious. Mashed potatoes on mine was lukewarm and the broccoli was very chewy which most people would like but I like mine fork tender! I would still have again asking for more potatoes and no broccoli. We asked about bread and Adam said it was only on request only now. They may start charging for it or take it off altogether. That is sad in either case.

We ended up choosing to sit at the aquarium bar. It was wonderful to identify the fish from their QR code. The wagu was prepared and cooked A++. We added a side of the local mushrooms, which were delicious and interestingly different than our local mushrooms. Friendly atmosphere. We’d certainly go back!

First time to the restaurant since the ownership transition; love the atmosphere and view. No heating or padded seats in the outdoor seating section, but it was a fun experience being in our own little gazebo, and we so appreciate the distance our waitress and waitstaff go to bring your meals: a great tea selection, warm bowl of French onion soup and a hot pizza are options to warm you up on a cold day; a cute market is available on property if you need a sweatshirt; anticipate a 20 degree temp change from your favorite beach.

Just make the drive here. The locals and frequent travelers to Maui already know about this fabulous restaurant…but if you are a newbie, please “just do it”.. you will not regret it. We have been coming to HGS 1-2 times a year for decades. I cannot imagine traveling to Maui without at least one stop here for lunch or dinner. It’s no longer the original owner, however we’ve been back at least five times since the sale and the quality of food is still exemplary! The dining here far exceeds any other place on the island. The ribs have always been a favorite, along with the mahi mahi ….. and the appetizers are spectacular. We are not typically dessert foodies, however you cannot leave here without sharing the award winning Pineapple Upside down cake. Thank you, Franchesco, for stopping by our table to chat ! We appreciate the family friendly atmosphere! We will be back in April!

Monkeypod Kitchen was amazing. It surpassed my expectations, we had an amazing dinner. We ordered the seabass special and the ahi steak. Both were phenomenal. Mai tais and espresso martinis were delicious. Strawberry pie was to die for. We would definitely go back again. Also props to our amazing server, Ryan. He was attentive and gave great suggestions!