Kalei's Lunchbox Maui Lani
About
Island Comforts in the Heart of Maui Lani
Stepping into Kalei's Lunchbox feels like pulling up a chair at a friend's kitchen table in the center of Wailuku. This is the spot where locals head when they crave authentic, no-frills Hawaiian plate lunches that don't compromise on portion size or flavor. The air inside is thick with the scent of savory kalua pork and sweet shoyu chicken, creating an inviting, casual atmosphere perfect for a quick workday recharge or a weekend family meal.
The Menu Staples
Chef Kalei brings a mastery of island soul food to the Maui Lani neighborhood. You will find their signature garlic shrimp hits the mark every time, offering a fragrant, buttery punch that pairs perfectly with two scoops of sticky white rice and their signature macaroni salad. It is the kind of food that demands you slow down and enjoy the heat of the midday sun while sitting at the communal-style outdoor seating.
Know Before You Go
The popularity of their lunch specials means the line can stretch out the door during the noon rush, so consider swinging by just before or after the traditional lunch hour to secure your order without a wait. Parking in the surrounding plaza area can get tight during peak times, but the flavor payoff is well worth the minor inconvenience. Whether you are a long-time Wailuku resident or exploring the Central Maui landscape, Kalei's provides an essential taste of home-cooked excellence that defines the local culinary scene.
Amenities & Features
Location
52 Maui Lani Pkwy, Wailuku, Hawaii, 96793-2464
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Reviews
Showing 8 of 7 community reviewsBob KanakmotoGoogle Maps
Recently
Way to Expensive for a plate lunch served in a paper container. Charged for a hamburger steak, $18.00-ish, charged for onions that we did NOT receive, asked to tip 20%, then REQUIRED to pay THEIR credit card fee, 3% I believe. Next thing you know you just paid about 23.00 for a hamburger steak…not worth that much, feels like your being nickeled and dimed every step of the way.
Brandon SegalGoogle Maps
Recently
Kalei’s is fantastic. They consistently deliver high-quality local food at a reasonable price, with quick and friendly service every time. I find myself ordering from here at least 2–3 times a month, and their specials, breakfast, lunch and dinner never disappoint. Kalei’s really sets the standard for what a great local spot in Hawaiʻi should be.
Katherine LeonardGoogle Maps
Recently
This was our very last stop in Maui before heading to the airport, and I'm so happy we made the time! We got the chicken katsu curry, beef teriyaki burger, and saimin. Everything was super delicious, and portions were quite large. The service was great.
Morgan HGoogle Maps
Recently
Terriyaki chicken was so good! Also tried their mango bread and macadamia nut brownie. The brownie was def the star of the show for dessert options , so yummy .
kaaihue21_gmailGoogle Maps
Recently
I was so impressed by this restaurant. The food was simply delicious and the pricing was excellent for the quality. We started with a croissant sandwich, and the croissant itself was nice and warm—perfectly flaky and made the whole sandwich feel fresh and wonderful. We also got two bentos, and they had the right kind of mix with a variety of great flavors that complemented each other perfectly. The service, however, was what made the experience truly memorable. The employees looked like they were in high school or early college, but their customer service was some of the best I've ever encountered. They must have great mentors because they were attentive, polite, and truly seemed to care. While the food is the main attraction, the incredible service is a huge bonus. You really must try this place if you get the chance!
Elevated AffluenceGoogle Maps
Recently
Decided to stop here for a quick lunch and it did not disappoint. The staff at the front were honest and helpful, leading me to order the Classic Cheese Steak Sandwich. I got it to-go so I could sit outside with my friends while they ate shaved ice next door. Once my friends saw and smelled the sandwich, they both shortly thereafter ordered the same meal! All of us were very satisfied. This is a good place, super causal and spacious inside. Decent portions and budget-friendly options. Baked goods are also offered! I will definitely be back to try other meals.
Phil LiGoogle Maps
Recently
This was our first meal in Hawaii and it was a good opener for what to expect for our trip. The service here was friendly and the server we had was helpful with suggestions and such. We probably should’ve gone with their fish recommendation as having two red meat meals made it harder to finish so I recommend having a variety if sharing. Serving sizes are generous and the sides are helpful when enjoying the meat but we did find the Mac a bit saltier than we usually enjoy but still good with the dish.
Zach SiegristGoogle Maps
Recently
Good spot for a traditional Hawaiian lunch plate. We got the Korean chicken plate which was the best of the 3 items we got, the Teri beef, and the crinkle cut fries with hurricane sauce. The fries and the sauce were a bit bland despite the sauce being on them so that was a bit disappointing. The Teri beef was okay (a bit dry and chewy) but the Korean chicken was definitely the redeeming factor of this meal. Perfect flavor, and a hefty portion!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kalei's Lunchbox Maui Lani
Common questions from diners about Kalei's Lunchbox Maui Lani in Wailuku.
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