Chow Wagon
About
A Roadside Essential in Hana
When you reach the end of the winding Road to Hana, the hunger sets in. Chow Wagon offers a straightforward, no-frills culinary stop that anchors the local food scene. Positioned right in the heart of Hana town, this open-air food truck operation captures the laid-back spirit of East Maui, making it a mandatory pitstop for surfers and road-trippers alike.
Island-Sourced Comfort
The menu highlights the bounty of the Hana coastline. You will find fresh, locally caught fish that tastes like it was pulled from the Pacific just hours prior, often served as crisp, golden-fried fish and chips or to flavor-packed tacos. The scent of searing aromatics wafts through the humid trade winds, providing a sensory preview of the hearty portions served on paper plates.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Expect a casual outdoor setup where you grab your food and find a spot at a communal picnic table. It is the perfect environment for travelers looking to refuel without the formality of a sit-down restaurant. Keep in mind that Hana is a quiet community, so arrive before the afternoon rush when the freshest inventory starts to dwindle. While the area is known for its lush, remote beauty, finding a parking spot near the food trucks can get tight during peak tourist hours, so be prepared to walk a few yards through the gravel lot. It is an honest, unpretentious dining experience that favors flavor over flair, embodying the true character of this remote Maui destination.
Amenities & Features
Location
5300 Hana Hwy, Hana, Hawaii, 96713
More to Explore
Reviews
Showing 10 of 43 community reviewsSeneca SpurlingGoogle Maps
Recently
Sometimes there aren't a lot of options. This restaurant is fine, but I didn't love it. I appreciated it was open and serving acceptable food. It just wasn't "great" in any dimension. The lighting was a little harsh, there were a lot of TVs on, and everything was pretty mundane. I thought the Hana ranch restaurant would be a good place to try Hana beef. So we ordered a burger and asked for it rare. But that's more an option, because it's a "smash burger". I have had good smash burgers but this wasn't one. Overcooked was the only option. Quite disappointing. If we are there again I'd try something else so I may yet fine their strength for me. But I wouldn't eat there unless it was the only option, which sometimes it is, I guess :)
Jay AndrewsGoogle Maps
Recently
It's a great place to stop and eat when visiting Hana. The outdoor patio is covered and offers stunning views while dining. The food is good although a bit on the pricey side for what it is, probably due to the remote nature of this community. Service at front counter was prompt and friendly. They ask for a phone number even though there was no wait. I hope that my number isn't used for marketing texts or being sold for marketing since it wasn't being used to alert when a table was ready. Our waiter was a little less than attentive when a food preparation request was acknowledged but not written down for the kitchen staff. Waiter was not as warm and friendly as hoped for.
Gautam BhasinGoogle Maps
Recently
The service and ambience is good. We were disappointed with Brussels sprouts. It’s supposed to be crispy and not charred. The chicken and fries were good.
Maria ZhengGoogle Maps
Recently
The view is awesomefrom the patio and food is very fresh. The poke from lunch appetizer is amazing. The chicken sandwich even had a piece of pineapple in it which made it very flavorful with a tropical twist. The ahi sandwich is cooked right.
AnnaGoogle Maps
Recently
Absolutely amazing experience! The food was incredibly delicious, every dish was fresh and full of flavor. The ocean view from the patio was breathtaking — the perfect place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. On top of that, the staff was genuinely warm, attentive, and friendly. One of those places you never want to leave. Highly recommend!
Evan LapinskiGoogle Maps
Recently
If you want excellent food, this is a great place for it. Their Ahi Tuna sandwich was wonderful. I would highly recommend it. They have an outdoor patio seating with a wonderful view.
Brooke MillsapsGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious food - we had the burger w/ fries and pork sandwich w/ salad. Highly recommend both! Great service. Clean. Beautiful view of the ocean. Perfect spot for food and relaxation on the road to Hana. All staff were very friendly and sweet! Highly recommend!!
Jostein OvrumGoogle Maps
Recently
The shortribs were the best, being absolutely delicious. But the catch of the day and poke was also very good. Super nice staff.
Arturs MonsGoogle Maps
Recently
I stopped by this restaurant recently and was seriously impressed. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, the staff attentive without being overbearing, and the food came out quick and fresh. The highlight for me was definitely the pulled pork burger—it was packed with flavor, perfectly tender, and had just the right balance of smoky and savory. The portion was generous without being overwhelming, and every bite was delicious. I’d absolutely recommend this place to anyone, especially if you’re craving a pulled pork burger done right.
Ariel & Tyla NunezGoogle Maps
Recently
A beautiful stop for lunch after driving 3 hours from Kihei. The service was excellent and the food was amazing with very generous portions. We each got a delicious non-alcoholic cocktail and shared their best dessert, the cookie dough sundae! We will be dreaming of that dessert for a long time!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Chow Wagon
Common questions from diners about Chow Wagon in Hana.
