Looking for a restaurant on Maui for my first anniversary. Have searched this site, read Maui Revealed, etc. etc. but would like more first hand opinions. I would like something with a view (right on the water is not a necessity, could be up higher with great views); very good food -- all types of cuisine are acceptable; small and/or intimate setting -- hate that "corporate" feeling, with a guy playing Celine Dion on a grand piano; price is not really an object. Thinking about Roy's, Mama's Fish House, the Plantation House . . . any input appreciated. My husband and I eat out a lot, we love a good meal, and want a restaurant that really says "Maui."

Thanks!

Mama's Fish House.

On our honeymoon recently, we had amazing and romantic meals at both Nick's Fishmarket and Gerard's. The former is seafood, the latter is French. Gerard's is in Lahaina, at the Plantation Inn, and Nick's is at the Kea Lani in Wailea. Had wonderful service and food at both. Gerard's is more quaint-romantic feeling, I think, since it is at a Plantation house. Low key 30's music playing in the background, very good and discreet waiters, candlelight. No view, which I was wary about, but it didn't matter. It was romantic to the max. Nick's had amazing food, very attentive service, and has been voted among the best in Maui, as has Gerard's. Nick's has a sort-of view of the ocean. It is at the Kea Lani, and you can see the ocean, but only past the pool. They are both among the "romantic" restaurants according to the Dummies book.

Also, maybe Chez Paul as well. Did not get to try it, but it is supposed to be out of this world. No view, but apparently worth it, and exceedingly romantic.

PS-- at both, request seating on the terrace when you make your reservation.

If there's one restaraunt that personifies the best of Maui, that would be Mama's Fish House in my opinion. It's long history of outstanding seafood with the delightful atmosphere should be near the top of your list. Despite all the hype for many years, it rarely disappoints as can be evidenced by all the continuous positive posts on this forum. I too wondered what all the fuss was about so when I went to see for myself in July '02, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

As I can tell by your pseudonym, you would also love Gerard's at the Plantation Inn. Their lobster bisque was rich and delicious. No view to speak of but it does offer a small, intimate setting with excellent French cuisine.

I don't think you can go wrong with the three choices you listed (Roy's, Mama's, Plantation House) since they have a long tradition of fine dining on Maui. If any establishments are the quintessential Maui restaurants, those would be it. If you're thinking along the lines of a more authentic Polynesian meal, I can't really help you out there.

Newer restaurants you might want to consider are I'o and Pacific'o, same chef. They've gotten a lot of positive reviews.

Don't just rely on Maui Revealed for restaurant choices, check out Zagat for reviews and also try a search on this forum of the restaurants you're interested in.

One restaurant I didn't get a chance to eat at but friends recommended was the Haliimaile General Store. You'll hear a lot of positive remarks regarding it.

I you like sushi, then Sansei in Kapalua is a must..just get there early. There's already a line when it opens for dinner at 5:30pm.

Don't forget to try some of the more reasonable grub while you're there--Cheeseburger in Paradise, Hula Grill, etc.

I failed to mention any restaurants in South Maui (Kihei and Wailea) not because there aren't any good ones there but because I didn't dine there.

Hope this helps!

I recently ate at the "Humu" at the Grand Wailea. Beautiful layout in a thatched building over fish pond, etc. My wifes scallops (appetizer)were gritty/sandy tasting, so we told the waiter and he brought more out. Two of the four he brought back were also equally gritty. My wife ordered the fish of the day, and it was not fresh. It did not break apart easily and there was a big dark spot in it that tasted fishy. I ordered the mixed grill plate that was really good. The fish on it was better than my wifes. I cant remember what appetizer I had, but I dont remember being displeased with it. They ended up comping the scallops and a dessert. If I had it to do over, I might try Nicks or Mamas instead.

We really enjoyed Longhi's while on our honeymoon. It is in Lahaina & you can watch the sunset while dining. I haven't been to the others mentioned.

Have a wonderful vacation!

I believe there is now a Longhi's in Wailea also. My vote would also be with Mama's Fish House.

If you're stayin in the nothern part of the island, or if you're willing to drive a bit, I'd definitely go to Roy's. My favorite restaurant in the world!! I actually went there last night. they opened a location in chicago last year.

Based on your list of wants, I would say Mama's Fish House should be your first choice, then Plantation, then Roys. Mama's has a beautiful view of the ocean, great food, excellent service, and doesn't feel at all corporate - it has a distincly Hawaiian feel in a non-tacky sort of way.

Plantation House also has a beautiful view (it's higher up), but in my opinion, the food doesn't quite compare. The interior is also a little bland and doesn't really say "Maui" to me. It looks like it could be another really nice restaurant overlooking the ocean in Southern California.

Roy's has excellent food, but no view (unless they've moved). It's in a strip mall.

Unfortunately, neither Mama's nor Plantation House will reserve a table by the windows for you. They are first come, first serve. However, we've always just arrived a few minutes before our reservation, checked in with the host/hostess for a window seat and had a glass of wine or appetizer at the bar. The views and atmosphere being what they are, we had no complaints.

As for Haliimaile General Store, we love the food, but it's upcountry and has no real views. If you get a chance to eat there, however, you should. They've got great fish preparations and the desserts are scrumptious.

As for I'o and Pacific'o, they're fun and serve relatively good food, but I feel neither are really special enough for a first anniversary celebration.

My vote goes with the other posters: Mama's Fish House

Thanks to everyone who replied -- I was afraid of getting bashed for asking yet another Hawaii question!

Sounds like Mama's is the place for us. Can't wait!