There’s no denying the effect of the global pandemic on the travel and foodservice industries. Because of the need to follow health protocols to stem the spread of the virus, restaurants have taken drastic steps to implement physical distancing, regular and rigorous sanitizing, and compulsory wearing of masks by staff and customers alike. Sadly, some restaurants have even decided to close altogether, taking their cues for when states reopen.

Those who have decided to continue serving the dining public do so with commendable care, ensuring that health safeguards are in place, food safety standards are followed, all while maintaining the quality of food and service that their customers have come to expect. 

And with Hawaii making the moves to open the state backup to travel, the following restaurants located in South Maui are currently accepting takeout orders and are the perfect options for those looking to get a taste of paradise while staying in some of the best South Maui lodgings

Kihei Restaurants

Isana Maui

Fisherman-owned Isana boasts of their ocean to table offerings where you get to enjoy fresh-caught fish and island cuisine. And if you love sushi, you’ll have your pick of salmon, tuna and shrimp tempura rolls. Curbside pick-up. 

Maui Thai Bistro

Thai classics such as tom yum stir fry and Thai-style chicken with cashew nuts are diner favorites. Mahi mahi fillet, salmon in Thai basil sauce, and a generous combo of seafood in Thai chili paste are also on the menu. Takeout & delivery is available.

Paia Fish Market

Offering ‘Fresh Catch’ plates that include mahi-mahi, ono snapper, ahi, salmon, and opah, Paia Fish Market also fills customer cravings for burgers, pasta, and salads. Also, a good place if you want to have a bite of Mexican staples and appetizers. Delivery and takeout with online ordering options.

The Maui Pie

Satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh-baked fruit pies (mango/strawberry, raspberry/peach, blueberries), and cream pies (chocolate, banana, Key lime, and coconut), and fill grumbling stomachs and discerning taste buds with savory pies (chicken pot, Portuguese sausage.) In-store pick-up.

That’s a Wrap Cafe

When you need a quick shot of energy to get back to the beach, this café located just across Kamaole I is a time saver. That’s a Wrap that offers espresso, smoothies, salads, bowls, and of course, wraps. ‘Buddha bowls’ of veggies prove popular too. Vegan and gluten-free options also on the menu. Takeout.

Maui Tanpopo

It may be an odd combination of Japanese and Italian restaurant, but at Maui Tanpopo, that’s exactly what you get. The takeout menu includes Italian favorites like Bolognese, Arrabbiata, and Alfredo. Japanese options include shio butter and Tonkotsu ramen. Teriyaki burgers available, too. Takeout.

Amigos Restaurant

Offering authentic Mexican food, the highly-rated Amigos Restaurant boasts an array of enchiladas, tacos, burritos, chimichangas, tostadas, and fajitas on its menu. They also offer breakfasts and lunch plates. Burgers are available too. Takeout.

Outback Steakhouse

If you want your steak juicy and grilled to just how you like it, Outback Steakhouse has it down pat. Enjoy Aussie hospitality in South Maui with filet mignon and spirited drinks. Steaks are prepared seasoned and seared, slow-roasted, or char-grilled. Also offering cocktails and steaks combos, soups, and salads. Online ordering option, with delivery and curbside pick-up.

808 Deli

If you’re hankering for a sandwich, go to the ‘best local sandwich’ across Kamaole Beach Park II for a choice of chicken, tuna, turkey, pastrami, or Shiitake beef sandwiches.  Vegetarian options are also available. Paninis, gourmet hotdogs, and salad are also on the menu. Also serves breakfasts. Takeout available.

Fred’s Mexican Café

Pupu platters for dinner are on the menu, but also omelets and breakfast burritos and quesadillas. Lunch and dinner options include burgers and sandwiches. Local chain located in the heart of Kihei. Pickup is available.

Cuatro Restaurant

The available menu for takeout at this time lists nachos, tacos, and quesadillas. Salads are also on offer. If you want your entrées varied, Cuatro is a good place to order from. Entrées include pasta, fish, meats, and seafood dishes. Takeout.

Koiso Sushi Bar

Sushi and other specialty rolls with the chef’s twist. Chef’s platters are perfect for group and family meals. You get a choice of futomaki, unagi oshi-sushi, and maguro. Takeout bentos also available. Takeout/pickup from the restaurant.

Kamaole Poolside Cafe

Not up to preparing your own meals and a quick bite would suffice? Lunch and dinner menus include seafood starters, salads, and tacos. Entrées feature daily fish specials. If you prefer meats, burgers, sandwiches and steaks are available. Online order and curbside pick-up.

Ami Ami Bar and Grill

On the menu: salads, sandwiches, and tacos. All-day entrées feature seafood-based pasta and platter. Chicken dishes and steal also available. Online order for curbside takeout.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe

Featured in the Zagat dining guide, Coconut’s Fish Café offers pupu seafood appetizers, salads, soups, and pasta. If you like your seafood grilled, options include ono, mahi-mahi, ahi on fish tacos, and fish burgers. Gluten-free choices and low-fat options are also available. Order online, phone in, and pick up curbside. 

Wailea Restaurants

Five Palms

Breakfast, lunch and dinner choices with an extensive wine list and signature cocktails. Breakfast choices include fresh fruits, smoothies, omelettes, pancakes and lox and bagel. Salads, sandwiches, fish and chips, and ribs are available for lunch while dinner offers a more extensive menu. Tuna sashimi and ahi poke are served at dinner, including bistro fare and fresh from the farm salads. Entrées may range from seafood dishes like mahi-mahi curry to spiced tuna to Kauai prawns, or to meat specialties like grilled lamb chops and ribeye. Takeout available. 

Mulligans on the Blue

For generous heaps of American quick bites and comfort food, fries and burgers and even shave ice. Drive through.

Help stimulate the economy by ordering food from restaurants that are bravely trying to be open despite the challenges. You not only do your part in preventing the spread of the virus, but also in keeping the hopes of these Maui restaurants alive to reopen and serve the locals and out-of-state visitors when Hawaii is ready.