I've narrowed down our dining choices for Maui and the BI. Now, I'm looking for feedback/advice abut the following restaurants...any thoughts on the following would be greatly appreciated.

Maui-
Mama's Fish House
Spago
Nick's Fishmarket or David Paul's Lahaina Grill
Pacific'O or I'O

BI-
Alan Wong's Hualalai Grill
Pahu I'a
Kenichi Pacific
Roy's
Daniel Thiebaut

We went to Nick's Fishmarket, but the one in Waikiki. Our meal was fantastic -- awesome fish, friendly service. And we got a 1/2-off coupon from the Entertainment Book. (Bonus!)

And one more wrong-island recommendation -- we've been to Roy's, but not the one on Big Island. I'd definitely recommend the prix fixe menu, and make sure you order the molten lava cake as your dessert!

Thanks...I appreciate the feedback!

We've been to Mama's, Nick's, and Pacific'O. Of these 3, Pacific'O had the best view. The food and service were great at all, and the prices about the same (In 2006, roughly $125 for two, with 1 glass of wine each, shared app, shared dessert, 2 entrees).

I would recommend David Paul's over Nick's. Either Pacific'O or I'O are excellent choices.

Okay, I'll probably have folks yelling at me - but I wouldn't go to Roy's again. Yes, it was only once and in Poipu, Kauaii, but just wasn't anything special at all - even the lava cake. Don't get me wrong, the food was good - but just not up to all the raves. Go to one of your other choices.

And, If ever in Boston, try the similar cake at Rialto restaurant in Cambridge, MA - its so much better.

Aloha Ladybugthepug,

To throw a couple more bones your way....

Have you considered Merriman's in Kamuela/Waimea? It's out of the resort area which is a nice change and in the lush countryside. Peter Merriman is a renowned Hawaiian Regional Chef. http://www.merrimanshawaii.com/ I've had very memorable meals here in a casually tropical down-to-earth setting.

Our absolute fave restaurant in Maui is (Bev Gannon's) Hali'imale General Store which is near Makawao (near Mama's, but on the countryside). FABULOUS! I've dined here a dozen times and sent friends here. They all loved it too. It's a great spot for lunch. http://www.bevgannonrestaurants.com/...aliimaile.html

I'm not really a "country gal", but both these are off the beaten path and simply outstanding.

I found Mama's to be WAY overrated and super crowded. The fish and view was divine, but the prices, crowd and service were very disappointing. The tables are literally on top of each other. I felt like we were dining with 4 other parties.

You will get amazingly fresh ingredients and outstanding meals with any of your choices. You won't go wrong.

I'd go with the total experience....do you want a swanky "Wolfgang Puck" or old Hawaii atmosphere? Maybe a mix of both?

Bon Appetit!

one more thing....

Roy's has become more of a chain restaurant. I see it all over California (Valley, Palm Desert, Pebble Beach, Newport Beach). The only Roy's I'd recommend is the original one in Hawaii Kai (Oahu).

Aloha!