Nalu's South Shore Grill
About
Fresh Ingredients Meet Kihei Cool
Stepping into Nalu's South Shore Grill feels like walking into the heartbeat of Kihei. The open-air setup invites the salty Pacific breeze to mingle with the savory aroma of house-made island vinaigrette and seared local catches. It’s a favorite haunt for locals looking for a reliable lunch spot and visitors wanting to escape the resort crowds for a genuine taste of Maui.
Locally Sourced, Simply Served
The kitchen leans heavily into the 'farm-to-table' ethos, sourcing greens and produce from island growers to keep the menu vibrant. Their signature Mahi-Mahi tacos are the standout here—the fish is always flaky and seasoned with just enough spice to let the freshness shine through. If you are leaning toward something heavier, the Kalua pork plates served with a scoop of mac salad deliver that quintessential Hawaiian comfort food experience that satisfies after a morning of snorkeling in South Maui.
The South Shore Rhythm
The atmosphere is bustling and casual, often featuring live local musicians who provide a laid-back acoustic backdrop to the midday clatter of plates. While the dining space is comfortable, keep in mind that this spot is incredibly popular; the shared seating arrangements can feel a bit snug during the weekend lunch rush. You might have to navigate a tight parking lot, but the reward of a refreshing ginger-turmeric cooler and a perfectly grilled plate is worth the maneuvering. Whether you are grabbing a quick bite before hitting the beach or settling in for a long afternoon of people-watching, Nalu’s offers an authentic slice of island life that skips the pretense and focuses squarely on quality ingredients.
Amenities & Features
Location
1280 S Kīhei Rd Located in Azeka Shopping Center - Makai, Kīhei, Hawaii, 96753-8240
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 1338 community reviewsDaniel SidwellGoogle Maps
Recently
Really impressed with how the quality has been maintained throughout the years! Haven't been here for a while, as it's gotten really busy since it became a tourist spot, so I haven't patronized it since I didn't want to deal with the crowds. However, we decided to give it another shot, and I was extremely impressed and ate here two days in a row! The prices are local-friendly, and I'm always a big fan of a lobster roll, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I will be back more often! Also, the staff is extremely friendly. 🤙
Natalia ChavezGoogle Maps
Recently
Loved this place! Came here for breakfast and had the three egg omelette, french toast, coffee and a passion fruit lemonade, all were very good I would just say that the coffee didn’t really taste like anything, but the food made up for it. Food, atmosphere and service were all excellent and would definitely recommend!
Daniel ChavezGoogle Maps
Recently
We had breakfast at Nalu’s South Shore Grill and overall had a very enjoyable experience. The food was great. We ordered the French Toast and the Caprese Omelette, and both dishes were flavorful, fresh, and generously portioned. The French Toast was especially delicious and definitely worth trying. The atmosphere has a very authentic Hawaiian, laid-back vibe that fits perfectly with the Maui experience. One thing first-time visitors should know is that the restaurant operates a bit differently than a traditional full-service restaurant. You’ll need to order at the counter first, find your own table, and pick up your drinks when they’re ready. The staff then brings the food to your table. The only disappointment was the cappuccinos. They tasted more like regular drip coffee with milk rather than a true espresso-based cappuccino, lacking the rich flavor and texture you would expect. Overall, the food and atmosphere made for a great breakfast, and we would gladly return. Just don’t come expecting specialty coffee-shop quality cappuccinos.
Angela McintyreGoogle Maps
Recently
Nalus breakfast is amazing! It is so good we visited multiple times on our trip. The banana mac nut pancakes, lilikoi stuffed french toast, chicken and waffles, and heavy kine breakfast were all delicious. You start by waiting in a line to order and then they deliver to your table. The wait staff is very attentive and will bring anything you may need. Highly recommend!!
M. C.Google Maps
Recently
Was there for a late brunch and enjoyed every moment. We didn’t wait too long to be seated. Ordered loco moco and POG. It is nice to have the drink refillable free of charge. The place has its own vibes which we liked a lot.
Seasoned PerspectiveGoogle Maps
Recently
We stopped in for a late lunch and were pleasantly surprised by how good everything was. We ordered the fish-n-chips and the CBLT (crab BLT), along with a Hawaiian Superman drink and a strawberry lemonade. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and seriously delicious 😋🤤 The fish was crispy without being greasy, and the crab BLT was packed with flavor and definitely something we’d order again. The only slightly awkward part was the ordering process. There’s a sign that says “wait to be seated,” but instead you actually order and pay first before finding your own table. It seemed like the staff might still be adjusting to the system themselves, so there was a little confusion at first. Not a huge deal, just something that could probably be communicated more clearly. They also have a happy hour we weren't aware of and had we arrived 10 minutes later the menu options change slightly and at a discounted pricing, something I wish they had mentioned before we ordered. Overall though, the restaurant felt clean, welcoming, and comfortable, and the service was friendly. Once we got settled in, the experience was really enjoyable. Definitely a nice spot to grab a meal and relax for a bit.
Erica JacksonGoogle Maps
Recently
Nalu’s is absolutely worth the wait, and we waited about 20 minutes on our visit, which flew by since they also had live music. I ordered the kimchi fried rice with scrambled eggs and a side of Portuguese sausage, along with their MacNut Mocha Cold Brew special. Everything was perfect, every component of the meal delivered. The kind of breakfast that keeps you full for hours! I’ll definitely be back, and the mac salad is at the top of my list for next time.
Haylee Jane MonteiroGoogle Maps
Recently
Very unique ordering system here where you have to wait in line to order and then sit down at the table. And you need to follow the same line system even if you are ordering to go. So if you want to place or take out order? I highly recommend putting in the order online and then going into pick it up. We got the Loco moco with Poached eggs and white rice. First time having a Loco Moco and I heard that this was the place to get it at, so I'm glad we got a good experience! Eggs were perfectly cooked and the entire combination of the beef and rice and eggs and pickled onions was really good together! Came with a nice macaroni salad and also some lettuce to get some veggies in, haha. Overall, there was quite a line here on a Sunday morning, so it's a good sign that this place has good food.
Kyle DoneyGoogle Maps
Recently
Great spot with a local feel. Music was going and the atmosphere is laid back. You order like fast food then they give you a seat a bring it to ya. Efficient set up really.. there was maybe a 10 min line. I got the Ahi Club and it was great! Nice side salad and good home cooked chips. We got the crab cake sandwich too. Also good, but ahi was better. Looks like they have a great hh too. I’d def go back. $25 sandwich
Ewa CissikGoogle Maps
Recently
It was one of the only non-hotel affiliated breakfast places we could find on this side of the island and I'm glad we did. Many great breakfast options. We had the pancakes, french toast, Portuguese sausage side, and vegetarian Benedict between the 3 of us. Everything was very tasty. We liked the open air setup. Would definitely return for another meal.
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