Mesmerizing Meals: Romantic Dining in Maui

By Erica Garza

Enjoy romantic dining in Paia at Mama's Fish House.

If you’re trying to plan a Valentine’s Day dinner, consider the many romantic restaurants in Maui pairing delicious meals with gorgeous views. From Kapalua to Paia to the surrounding waters by boat, the options we found for romantic dining in Maui are definitely diverse.

Nothing says luxury like the Ritz. Its onsite restaurant, Banyan Tree, mirrors the hotel’s lavishness, featuring expansive views of the Pacific from one of the most coveted scenic lookouts on the island. Overlook the nearby island of Molokai in a hut-like, open-air haven illuminated with subtlety so as not to detract from the stars. Feast on Pacific Rim cuisine and unusual delicacies like the locally made “Surfing Dairy” goat cheese duo with chutney and honeycomb, and Kona lobster with sundried tomato polenta. If you are vegetarian or vegan, indulge in roasted eggplant, lentil dahl and cucumber raita. Then satiate your sweet tooth with your sweetheart via pineapple caramel cake with Maui lavender sorbet and roasted pineapple carpaccio.

Founded in the 1970s, Mama’s Fish House features fresh fish daily with local fishermen generously credited on the menu for their catch. A recipient of numerous honors in 2010, this beloved Paia eatery combines Polynesian and Hawaiian fare in a beautiful coconut grove surrounded by white sands. From deep water ahi to opakapaka to stuffed mahimahi and blue prawns, the opportunities for fresh fish are practically endless, but keep in mind the menu changes daily depending on the day’s catch. And despite the restaurant’s name, you don’t only have to choose from the sea. Typical land offerings include Kalua duck with mango-mui glaze or Maui Cattle Company’s tenderloin steak. After your romantic dinner, why not stay a little longer? Mama’s Fish House additionally offers an onsite inn.

Take to the sea for romantic dining on a Pacific Whale Foundation Dinner Cruise. Offering excursions that help to support the organization’s ecological mission, the Foundation allows you to wine and dine for a cause. For Valentine’s Day, the evening begins at 5:30 for a two-hour cruise, which includes complimentary beverages, a choice among fresh-grilled top sirloin steak, boneless teriyaki chicken breast with pineapple and grilled onions, Maui onion and panko crusted mahimahi, or sesame cilantro tofu with mango sauce. Divine Valentine’s Day desserts, tea and Maui Oma coffee will round out the romantic night.