Coconut’s Fish Cafe Celebrates a Decade in Kīhei

The home of Hawai‘i’s top-rated taco, Coconut’s Fish Cafe, is celebrating 10 years in Kīhei.  It marked the milestone on April 23 by partnering with the Maui Humane Society, local artists, and the Maui High School Band for a day-long anniversary lū‘au.

“Truly, I can’t believe Coconut’s has been a part of this community for a decade,” says Michael Phillips, founder of Coconut’s Fish Cafe. “I never could have anticipated the love and support that Kīhei and its visitors have shown me. Our anniversary celebration is intended as a tribute back to the community that has given me so much.”

The day’s festivities included Hawaiian blessings, live music, the Maui High School Marching Band, raffles, giveaways and a check presentation to Maui Humane Society for $10,000.
Coconut’s Fish Cafe is named for Mr. Phillips’ cat, Coconut who was adopted from the Maui Humane Society. Each year, Coconut’s and Mr. Phillips have engaged with Maui Humane Society in his honor and memory.

“There is nothing better than knowing one of our beloved animals lived a long life in a loving home and we’re very appreciative to Coconut’s for their generous support of MHS over the years,” says Jerleen Bryant, CEO of Maui Humane Society. “What a wonderful tribute to Coconut the kitty.”

Check Presentation from Coconut’s Fish Cafe to Maui Humane Society. Courtesy photo.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe owner Mike Phillips signs the donation check for Maui Humane Society. Courtesy photo.

10th anniversary celebration at Coconut’s Fish Cafe in Kīhei. Courtesy photo.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe in Kīhei. Courtesy photo.

The Maui Humane Society, which has been around for more than 60 years, takes in more than 6,200 animals annually, and serves many times that number through community outreach programs. Equally important, through the many programs and services offers, MHS provides support for Maui’s approximately 90,000 pet owners as well as Animal Management Services for the County of Maui.

“There’s no way to explain how blessed I’ve been,” says Phillips. “All I know is that without the people around me, including family, friends, neighbors, and my amazing team of managers and employees, Coconut’s would never have been able to accomplish so much.”

Since opening in 2009, Coconut’s Fish Cafe has earned awards and acclaim nationwide, including:
Best Fish Taco 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 – Maui’s ‘Aipono Awards
Top Rated Taco – The Daily Meal 2019
“Perfect Fish Taco” and a food score of 27 out of 30 – Zagat 2013
“Top 10 Places to Eat Like a Local” – CNN 2013
“Top 100 Places to Eat Like a Local” – Travel + Leisure
2013 10Best – USAToday 2013

Michael Phillips is a successful entrepreneur several times over in the restaurant industry.  A Maui resident for more than 20 years, Phillips saw a need for a restaurant offering fresh foods and outstanding service in a casual environment, and started Coconut’s in 2009 to enjoy great-tasting meals with his neighbors in Kīhei.  Learn more in our dining video, “Coconut’s Fish Cafe:  A Wish for Fish.”  Coconut’s features fresh, healthy and affordable menu options, including wild-caught fish and a wide selection of authentic Hawaiian ingredients.