Cafe O'Lei Kihei
About
A Local Favorite in South Maui
When you find yourself cruising through the heart of Kihei, the open-air charm of Cafe O'Lei serves as a quintessential stop for those seeking authentic island comfort. The atmosphere leans into a relaxed, airy aesthetic that captures the essence of a Maui lunch break—expect a soundtrack of clinking silverware punctuated by the energetic chatter of regulars and visitors alike.
Signature Island Comfort
Known for delivering consistent, high-quality Pacific Rim cuisine, the kitchen here excels at straightforward preparations that let the local ingredients shine. The macadamia nut-crusted chicken remains a standout, offering a satisfying crunch that plays perfectly against a balanced tropical sauce. If you are leaning toward something from the ocean, their fresh catch preparations often feature whatever came off the local boats that morning, seasoned simply to highlight the firm, sweet texture of the fish.
The Kihei Experience
Stepping inside, you’ll immediately notice the high ceilings and the way the light filters through, creating a bright, welcoming space that feels far removed from the typical tourist trap. It’s an ideal spot for a casual lunch with friends or a low-key dinner after a long day of snorkeling at nearby beaches. Just a heads-up: during peak lunch hours, the popularity of this Kihei institution means the dining room can get quite boisterous, so it is the perfect place for a lively conversation, perhaps less so for a hushed, intimate secret.
Parking can be a bit of a dance in this bustling center, but once you snag a spot, the reward is a reliable meal that feels like home. Whether you are craving a crisp salad or a hearty plate of kalua pork, this establishment provides a genuine slice of Maui life without any pretension.
Amenities & Features
Location
2439 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Hawaii, 96753-7283
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 3488 community reviewsK MatthewsGoogle Maps
Recently
We went for happy hour and still cleared a $100 tab (w/ tip). Was delicious and worth every penny. Loved the vibe.
Roy ActualGoogle Maps
Recently
This restaurant is located in the center Kihei and is an excellent restaurant for local dishes and flavors. It has a casual atmosphere with comfortable tables. The staff is friendly and very efficient. The food is excellent, on par with popular fine dining restaurants. It's known for its mahi mahi. Anything you order will be delicious. Large windows surround the Hawaiian themed dining room. A full bar and counter anchor the center of the dining room.
M ParkerGoogle Maps
Recently
My partner enjoyed the chef's fish special and it was gorgeous. Unfortunately, my shrimp linguine was tasteless; the sauce didn't have enough salt and no flavor. We both enjoyed the pineapple upsidedown cake with macadamia nut ice cream, best part of my meal. The manager came by and we shared our impressions; we appreciated that and it's reflected in the service score. This is a nice place to eat and we enjoyed giving it a try.
Frank LisignoliGoogle Maps
Recently
As always the foid and service is amazing. i always sit at the bar. Cat is the best bartender un town. i splurged and got the fish and chips. best i ever had. Their lunch special changes daily and is best deal in tiwn $14.95. At dinner i highly recomend the Asian short ribs, the prime rib is also very good. if you want 8ncredible food at a reasonable price this is the place for you.
Mike HernandezGoogle Maps
Recently
Cafe O’Lei absolutely delivered an unforgettable experience. From the moment we walked in, the team was incredible—welcoming, attentive, and genuinely dialed in on making sure everything was perfect. The food? Next level. Perfectly cooked, full of flavor, and beautifully presented. Every plate that hit the table was a win—seriously hard to pick a favorite. Recommendation macadamia nut chicken
Alex CGoogle Maps
Recently
Fantastic food and great service. We had the calamari as an appetiser which was both fresh and delicious. For our main course I had the lobster risotto and my wife had the short rib. We highly recommend both!
Andrea BarnesGoogle Maps
Recently
It is a truly extraordinary experience where you get to know your food: especially as a newbie on Maui! Funny and knowledgeable waiter - a true slam poet! Mahi Mahi fish blackened or as fish and chips are tasty with perfect batter and crunchy French fries. But when it is on the menu, you have to have the Ono fish with Cocos curry on rice. And try Hale Kapena and Maui wowie! And when you still have place in your happy belly try the deserts! We will be back!! Slam poetry of the day: „the ocean is our cooler, the mountains are our ice house“.
Chelsea WoodmanseeGoogle Maps
Recently
Make a reservation! This is a highly popular restaurant any night of the week and it’s worth it to plan ahead. Everyone comes here for the Maui Onion Soup En Croute and they are right to do so. Cooked in a wood fire oven and delivered fresh and hot to your table. Delicious drinks made expertly, friendly and professional staff, chill and beautiful atmosphere. We ended up staying for a full meal instead of our original plan for soup and a cocktail. Everything was delectable. Make sure to make time to catch the sunset on Kihei beach before dinner.
Kate RudelmanGoogle Maps
Recently
It was our last day in Maui and we decided to have dinner in here. After couple of the bad experiences with the food and mostly customer service we didn’t expect anything miraculous, but everything starting with the wonderful hostess, bartender and ending with the marvellous food and cocktails - was gorgeous!!!Thank you for a wonderful last day on Maui. We really enjoyed each bite and sip!
BaronZGoogle Maps
Recently
Stopped in twice during our recent trip to Maui. The first time we arrived at dinner time with no reservation, however, they got us seated within 10 minutes. The second time we had reservations. The staff was very, very friendly and attentive. Both times the food was very good as were the drinks. The portions are huge, so come with a hungry stomach! I recommend the prime ribeye and my wife loved the macadamia crusted chicken. Just go before 6 pm, it gets very busy after that, which is always a good sign. You never want to go to a slow or empty restaurant! It’s not oceanfront but if you time it right you can catch a glimpse of the sunset. We will definitely be back on our next trip to Maui!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cafe O'Lei Kihei
Common questions from diners about Cafe O'Lei Kihei in Kihei.
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