Maui Food & Dining

Right off of Vineyard Street in Wailuku, stands a bakery and deli that really ups the ante for bakeries on Maui. At the Maui Bake Shop & Deli, customers can get their coffee and espresso fix, while letting their eyes and mouths devour the diversity of sweet pastries and savory menu items.

At first glance, the kitschy interior, plastic and ceramic knick-knacks, and the faux grass skirts worn by wait staff, seem oddly eye-catching. There’s just so much to be distracted by with simple superficialities, that the unknowing can possibly order their burger in paradise and not notice its less than paradise like flavor.

A recorded voice greets you in welcome with a tinny sounding “Irrashaimase!” as you enter Izakaya Matsu. Located in Kihei at Azeka I complex, this authentic Japanese restaurant is run by Nihon-jin, (Japanese people from Japan).

Most things have a place and utilization. Scoreboard Bar and Grill in Kihei, definitely has a use. Scoreboard scores high for usability on a game night, or live music event.

The new Monkeypod Kitchen restaurant in Wailea will be joined by a sister eatery at the Ko‘Olina Resort in the Summer of 2012.

The authentic cheese steak sandwich has yet to be reproduced faithfully in the islands. Still, Shaka’s in Kihei makes a valiant attempt at a cheese steak sandwich that satisfies those carnivorous cravings.

With over 80 menu items, Thailand Cuisine has a taste of Asia for everyone, be they meat lover, vegetarian, or health conscious and seafood loving crowd.

Maui Brewing Co., one of the fastest growing businesses in the state, is offering a behind the scenes tour and tasting event on Wednesday, July 13, 2011.

As temperatures go up, people are looking for something to cool themselves down. This next treat is something of a contradiction. Habanero chocolate ice cream, it’s Hell, frozen over.

Last time we discussed the merits of the mixologists at Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman. This time, let’s focus on the food. Unsurprisingly, that same dedication to flavor and freshness is exhibited in the food at Monkeypod.

Got GOOT? The Growing Our Own Teachers (GOOT) group is partnering up with Flatbread on July 12, to help local educators obtain financial help and supplies for the classroom.

Tylun Pang, the Executive Chef at the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui is donating proceeds from his latest cookbook to the Maui Culinary Academy

The South Kihei eatery suits many tastes with their sushi menu, lunch and dinner items that span the range from Asian to American flavors and interpretations.

Traditional Japanese dishes are re-interpreted in a trendy fusion style. Purists for Japanese food will still find merit in the plethora of dishes available.

Get an education for your taste buds with the first certified organic ranch in Hawaii. William Jacintho of Beef and Blooms in Kula shares his knowledge.

Dad deserves some downtime just like anyone else. Sunday brunch is a great way to let your dad, hubby, boyfriend, or significant other, relax and enjoy some great food, drink and your company.

Sweet Paradise Chocolate: Mouthfuls of smooth chocolate wink and beckon you to come closer to the clear display case. These are artisan chocolates; Godiva, Hershey, and Nestle have no place here.

On June 12, from 11:15 a.m., a free laulau meal will be offered to all. Service will be 45 minutes apart and will feature a re-telling of Queen Isabel’s (St. Elizabeth’s) devotion and piety in 14th century Portugal.

Going on now, at the Oskie Rice Arena in Makawao, food, music, friends, family and livestock are gathered. It’s time for the 31st Annual Upcountry Ag and Farm Fair.

Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea offers up some beautifully balanced cocktails and a variety of ales, lagers ports, and wine for those wanting some libation at day’s end.