Bite-Sized Bliss: A Tour of Maui’s Best Food Carts and Trucks
Maui, the Valley Isle of sun-kissed beaches and lush rainforests, is also a haven for foodies. The island is home to a vibrant and diverse food scene, with a plethora of street food carts and trucks that serve up some of the most delicious and authentic eats in the state. From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors, Maui’s food carts and trucks offer a world of flavor in every bite. Here’s a tour of the best food carts and trucks on the island.
Start the day with a flava-filled breakfast
Begin your day with a stop at Koa’s Since 1989, a popular breakfast cart in Kihei. Try their famous Loco Moco, a classic Hawaiian dish featuring a juicy patty of ground beef, fried egg, and gravy, all served over a bed of sticky rice. Or, opt for a sweet Portuguese-style malasada breakfast sandwich, complete with scrambled eggs and Portuguese sausage.
Satisfy your mid-day cravings
For lunch, head to Mama’s Le Open On the Go in Lahaina, a truck that serves up a fusion of Hawaiian and Korean flavors. Their Kalbi (Korean-style BBQ beef) tacos are a must-try, with tender beef short ribs marinated in a sweet and spicy Korean-inspired sauce, served in a soft tortilla. Don’t forget to add a side of spicy kimchi slaw for an extra kick.
Treat your taste buds to global flavors
Savor the Flavor, a gourmet food cart in Kahului, offers an eclectic menu that showcases the owner-chef’s international travels. Try their famous Jamaican jerk chicken or their Korean-style bibimbap, with a fried egg and spicy gochujang sauce. Don’t miss their fresh coconuts, harvested right from the island’s many groves.
Indulge in sweet tooth satisfaction
For a sweet treat, visit Malvaceous Coffee and Ice Cream, a truck in downtown Wailuku that serves up artisanal coffee and handcrafted ice cream. Flavors like shipments of pineapple, haupia, and liliko’i (passion fruit) will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Pair your scoops with a rich cup of Kona coffee for the ultimate Maui experience.
Wrap up with a satisfying dinner
Fork in the Road, a popular food truck in Kihei, serves up creative, globally-inspired comfort food. Try their Korean BBQ beef tacos or their famous fish and chips, made with beer-battered catch of the day. Don’t miss their specialty drinks, like the Mai Tai milkshake – a sweet and tangy nod to the classic cocktail.
Where to find the best food carts and trucks
- Kihei: Koa’s Since 1989, Fork in the Road
- Lahaina: Mama’s Le Open On the Go
- Kahului: Savor the Flavor
- Wailuku: Malvaceous Coffee and Ice Cream
Tips for a successful food cart and truck tour
- Check the latest reviews and social media for up-to-date information on hours, locations, and menu items.
- Come hungry! Most carts and trucks offer generous portions, so don’t be afraid to try a few dishes.
- Be prepared for a cash-only or limited credit card payment system in some cases.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as you’ll be exploring outdoor locations.
- Don’t be shy to ask for suggestions from the vendor – they often have insider tips on must-try items!