Mama’s Fish House Is the Most Iconic Restaurant in Maui

Mama’s Fish House is one of those places that seems like it’s been there forever. It’s not trendy, nor is it old school (ok, it’s slightly old school)—it’s just a place with some of the freshest, most well-prepared fish you’ll find anywhere and an assortment of other goodies that’ll please just about anyone. But the real star of the show is the location—there’s just nothing better than a cozy, romantic dinner with this kind of ocean view. It’s the kind of place you don’t mind showing up early to, just to take in the palms and the perfect blue water.

  • Where: Paia

  • Website: mamasfishhouse.com

  • Reservations: SevenRooms

  • Tip: If you’re there with an adventurous kid, they’ll do a lobster tail as a kids plate. Definitely not cheap, but worth it for the pics.


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Mama’s Fish House Has 17 Yumpoints

MAY 20, 2024

Pride of Maui: Top 33 Restaurants on Maui

Mama’s Fish House can be found on the North Shore of Maui. This restaurant is not just any ordinary dining establishment. It is a full-on culinary spectacle that needs to be enjoyed by every single pair of feet that lands on the gorgeous island of Maui. The North Shore view is awe-inspiring, and the sunsets are astounding.

MAY 1, 2024

Island Life Hawaii: The 15 Best Restaurants in Maui

Situated overlooking the ocean, Mama’s Fish House is a longstanding popular Hawaiian favorite. Mamas Fish House comes with an amazing view, relaxed environment and delicious menu options. It is inspired by the Polynesian culture and is known for having some of the best and freshest seafood on the island, guaranteed.

MAR 22, 2024 / SHANNON WIANECKI AND BILL ADDISON

Eater: The 21 Essential Maui Restaurants

At first glance, Mama’s comes across as a tourist snare; the South Pacific motif borders on kitschy and entrees cost an eye-popping $80. But this Polynesian fantasy has legitimate appeal. Waitstaff dressed in vintage Aloha wear deliver warm bread and amuse-bouches as salt air wafts in from the private cove. The kitchen’s consistency, honed by Maui-born executive chef Perry Bateman, justifies its international reputation.

JUL 20, 2023 / MARTHA CHENG

The Infatuation: The Best Restaurants In Maui

A true Maui landmark, Mama’s Fish House has been serving seafood in this same location since 1973. Their menu is so local that it’s updated daily with the name of the fisherman, the location where the fish was caught, and what it likes to do on the weekends (OK, maybe not that last one). This place is located steps from the sand at Kuau Cove, so it’s about as beachfront as it gets. And despite the bamboo walls and thatched roof, Mama’s Fish House is a pretty upscale and intimate place—expect to spend upwards of $60 on entrees.

JUL 1, 2023

Dining Maui: Top 30 Maui Restaurants

Mama’s Fish House has been in operation since 1973. While Mama’s is known for its ultra-fresh seafood, stunning views, and impeccable service, the restaurant itself is like a living museum. Augers from a long-defunct north shore sugar mill have been incorporated into the restaurant’s design. Tapa from the owners’ adventures in Samoa hangs behind the bar, and the roof in one section of the restaurant is the hull of an old ship. The Mama’s dining experience is just as much about the setting and the ambiance as the food.

JUN 6, 2023

Honolulu Magazine: 2023 Hale ‘Aina Award Winners: The Best Restaurants in Hawai‘i

Best Maui Restaurant - Silver

FEB 21, 2023 / MATT KIROUAC

Tasting Table: The 20 Best Places To Eat And Drink In Maui

Filled with polished wood totems, tiki torches, thatched roofing, and bamboo, Mama's Fish House is the kind of real-deal Polynesian wonderland that exemplifies the tropical island vibe of Maui. Plus, it just so happens to serve some of the best seafood and fish dishes on the island.

FEB 21, 2023 / LORI A MAY

Time Out: The 14 best restaurants in Maui

You haven’t experienced Hawaiian food until you’ve been to the iconic Mama’s Fish House, which has been slinging out deliciously fresh seafood to locals and tourists alike for over 40 years. The menu changes seasonally, focusing on local produce. You might be lucky enough to try seared octopus, shrimp won tons or ahi ceviche with mango, but don’t miss out on the desserts and cocktails too. 

SEP 1, 2022

Maui Nō Ka ‘Oi Magazine: 2022 ʻAipono Maui Restaurant Awards

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR - Honorable Mention

MOST MAUI-EST - Gold

MOST INNOVATIVE MENU - Honorable Mention

BEST OCEANFRONT DINING - Gold

BEST SERVICE - Honorable Mention

BEST FISH & SEAFOOD - Gold

BEST RESTAURANT POKE - Honorable Mention

BEST DESSERT - Honorable Mention

BEST FARM-TO-TABLE CUISINE - Honorable Mention

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