Restaurant Information
Kihei, Hawaii 96753
⏰ Opening Hours
Hours not available
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ℹ️ About This Restaurant
Stepping into Wailea Kitchen, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the island's lush abundance. The chic, minimalist decor is accentuated by natural wood accents and vibrant tropical greenery, creating a serene and relaxed ambiance. The expansive outdoor seating area, with its twinkling lights and soothing sounds of live music, offers a delightful al fresco dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Maui.
Wailea Kitchen's menu is a true testament to their commitment to farm-to-table dining, showcasing an impressive selection of organic, vegan, and vegetarian dishes that are both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. From the mouthwatering jackfruit carnitas tacos to the hearty lentil and quinoa bowl, every dish is crafted with the freshest local ingredients and a keen eye for balance and creativity. Standout signature items include the coconut ceviche, the Kale Caesar salad, and the decadent vegan chocolate cake, all of which highlight the kitchen's exceptional culinary prowess.
The service at Wailea Kitchen is attentive and knowledgeable, with the staff eager to guide guests through the diverse menu and make recommendations to suit any dietary preference. The pricing, while on the higher end, is reflective of the quality of the ingredients and the care put into each dish. The overall dining experience at Wailea Kitchen is one of pure delight, where the commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and exceptional flavors come together to create a truly memorable meal that captures the essence of Maui's vibrant food culture.
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🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance
Walking into Wailea Kitchen is like stepping into a serene oasis amidst the bustling streets of Kihei. The restaurant's decor seamlessly blends natural elements with modern elegance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft, natural lighting filters through large windows, casting a gentle glow over the space and highlighting the earthy tones of the wooden furnishings and lush greenery that adorn the room.
The seating arrangements at Wailea Kitchen are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Cozy booths and tables are strategically placed to offer both intimate and communal dining experiences, catering to a range of group sizes and preferences. The outdoor patio, complete with lush vegetation and tranquil water features, provides a serene and al fresco dining option, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the island's lush tropical ambiance.
🌿 Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free entrees, sides, and desserts prepared with certified GF ingredients.
- Raw Food Choices - Selection of fresh, uncooked vegan dishes featuring local, organic produce and superfoods.
- Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutes available to accommodate nut allergies and sensitivities.
- Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado toasts, cauliflower rice bowls, and coconut-based desserts.
⏰ Best Times to Visit
- Weekday lunch - Enjoy a peaceful, relaxed meal featuring fresh, seasonal produce and creative vegan dishes as you take a break from the workday hustle.
- Friday dinner - Kick off the weekend with a lively, upbeat atmosphere, live music, and a selection of craft cocktails and local beers to complement your plant-based meal.
- Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely, family-friendly brunch with a diverse menu of vegan and vegetarian breakfast favorites, plus mimosas and other brunch-friendly beverages.
⭐ What Makes Us Special
- Farm-to-table focus: Wailea Kitchen sources all its produce, meats, and seafood locally from sustainable farms and fisheries, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful ingredients for its organic and vegan-friendly menu.
- Chef-driven menu: Led by award-winning Chef Lani Upham, the menu features innovative plant-based dishes that showcase the diverse flavors and textures of Hawaiian cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
- Inclusive and welcoming atmosphere: Wailea Kitchen proudly identifies as a Black-owned, LGBTQ+-friendly, and transgender-safe space, creating a warm and inclusive environment for all patrons to enjoy its farm-fresh offerings.
📍 Local Area & Neighborhood
Wailea Kitchen is nestled in the heart of Kihei, a vibrant coastal town on the island of Maui. Surrounded by lush palm trees, the restaurant is just a short walk from Keawakapu Beach, a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and watching the stunning Hawaiian sunsets. The neighborhood is a lively mix of local shops, art galleries, and family-owned businesses, giving it a charming, community-focused atmosphere.
Wailea Kitchen's clientele is a diverse blend of health-conscious locals, eco-conscious tourists, and those seeking a unique culinary experience. The restaurant's commitment to sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients and its inclusive, welcoming environment have made it a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community and families alike. With its live music performances and cozy outdoor seating, Wailea Kitchen has become a gathering place for the Kihei community, offering a taste of Hawaii's vibrant cultural heritage and a dining experience that celebrates the island's natural abundance.
💬 Customer Reviews
"We made reservations for 5, very nice server but we waited for our dinner for an hour and a half. The food was delicious..."
"I’m sorry you had a rough time with us. When we first opened we didn’t have it together very good. Now we make all big t..."
"Let me begin by sharing the passionate Mission of Wailea Kitchen: "Everything on earth survives off of another living th..."
"Absolutely 200% worth it. Amazing and informative tour of the farm and the food was outstanding. You can tell the staff ..."
"200% I wish I could take that to the bank. You are amazing thank you so much we really appreciate your time."