Maui Shrimp Express (520 Keolani Pl)

Airport-Adjacent Garlic Shrimp Done Right

When you touch down in Kahului and the scent of buttery garlic hits the air, you are likely close to Maui Shrimp Express. Positioned just moments from the Kahului Airport, this unassuming food truck stop serves as the quintessential first (or last) meal for travelers looking to skip the overpriced resort buffets. The setup is simple: a paved lot, a high-traffic breeze, and the unmistakable sizzle of crustaceans hitting a scorching flat-top grill.

The Kahului Gold Standard

The menu focuses on a singular mission: perfection in the form of peel-and-eat garlic shrimp. Chef-driven execution ensures the garlic is caramelized rather than burnt, clinging to each shell with a savory, buttery intensity that demands a stack of napkins. The portions are substantial, served alongside scoops of island-style mac salad and rice, making it a functional, no-frills fuel for a day spent driving the road to Hana or exploring the North Shore.

A Quick Note on the Scene

Because it shares space with the general bustle of Keolani Place, expect a bit of road noise and the occasional roar of a jet engine overhead. Parking can get tight during the lunch rush as rental cars jockey for position, but the turnover is fast. This isn’t a place for white-tablecloth service; it is for those who value authentic Maui flavors and want to eat outside while watching the island traffic go by. If you crave honest, hot, and garlicky comfort food without the fanfare, this is your primary destination in central Maui.