Veg Out: Vegetarian Options in Maui

By Erica Garza

Enjoy vegetarian dishes in Maui like Veg-Out's Pad Thai plate. Photo courtesy of Veg-Out.

Herbivores need not keep to their kitchens to enjoy Maui vegetarian dishes. There are numerous dining options throughout the island that offer a variety of cuisines and extensive menus. From Kapalua to Haiku, enjoy Japanese specialties, delicious pizzas, and tasty tofu combinations.

Vietnamese and vegan, Fresh Mint Vietnamese Vegetarian Restaurant is a newer addition to Paia’s Baldwin Avenue, just 15 minutes from Kahului Airport. If you are a fan of spring rolls, try the fried imperial rolls with a side of citrus sauce or the clay pot “fish” for those who prefer spice. There are a number of tofu dishes as well, including the spicy lemongrass tofu loaded with zest.

In Haiku, Veg-Out offers an array of appetizing plates, including breaded tofu chunks, pesto goat cheese pizzas, Pad Thai, vegan-approved seitan dishes like spicy seitan cooked with peppers, onions and tomato sauce in a roll with olive spread and topped with parmesan cheese and baked.

Sushi isn’t just meant for fish lovers, as West Maui’s favorite sushi hotspot, Sansei, offers a variety of dishes for strict vegetarian diets. From Paia Maki and grilled veggie rolls to miso soup, edamame, and tempura vegetables, there’s no excuse to skip Sansei’s late-night karaoke and half-price sushi specials if you are a vegetarian.

Not far from Sansei, Plantation House will happily swap fish for tofu upon request, creating exquisite dishes like the Taste of Mediterranean, mustard-crusted Maui onion with fried caper sauce.

If you feel like staying in, this vegetarian and vegan-approved supermarket will make your kitchen a haven of healthy, meat-free ingredients. Down to Earth in Kahalui offers organic and natural foods and goods, with brands like Amy’s, Dr. Bronner’s, Hugo Naturals and Wai Lana. The market also offers an extensive produce section full of local veggies, super fruits and more.