Mauka Makai translates to ‘toward the mountains and the sea’, and it’s an apt name for a restaurant that offers some spectacular views. If you’re staying at or nearby the Westin, this spot offers a breakfast that is as delectable as the scenery.
This breakfast place is largely frequented by hotel guests. While it used to be buffet-style, customers now order at the counter. The service is friendly, and the menu has enough variety that you’re likely to find enough items to fill up before an action-packed day. Whether you’re snorkeling or surfing, fuel up while scanning the sea for marine life.
While the menu may look fairly standard at first glance, you only need to look a little further to see the Hawaiian influence. So if you’ve never had jalapeno chicken eggs benedict or a Kopelani-blend coffee, you can still mix up your routine a little.
If you’re going to the Mauka Makai in Maui, here are our top picks:
Smoked Salmon Bowl
Smoked salmon is the thing to get here, and this bowl is our recommendation to experience it. The sriracha goat cheese is tangy and spicy and pairs well with the veggies. Asparagus, spinach, onion, tomato, and mushrooms are well-balanced by the poached eggs and brown rice.
Farm Fresh Omelette
You can choose four items from the list, including tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, ham, bell peppers, cheddar, mozzarella, bacon, and onions. This dish also comes with the choice of white, wheat, or rye toast. When you’re craving eggs and want to experiment, waking up to your creation can be remarkably satisfying.
Big Island Papaya
Local papayas are stuffed with vitamins A and C, plus they’re high in fiber and potassium. With no fat and no cholesterol, this is a sweet, guilt-free treat that will charge you up in the morning. Hawaiian papayas are as healthy as they are delicious. The half option at Mauka Makai comes with lime, and it’s an excellent addition to any dish on the menu (or just on its own).
Hawaiian Sweet Bread French Toast
Sweet bread French toast might sound way too much for breakfast, but this Hawaiian favorite does have just enough savory elements to make the whole dish a little more interesting. This version is topped with Kula berries, liliko’i (a type of passionfruit), mascarpone cheese, and maple syrup.
Breakfast Brioche
If you’re looking for a hardy sandwich with some strong black coffee, the breakfast brioche is an excellent option. With local eggs, cheddar, and applewood-smoked bacon, the classic combo gets an upgrade thanks to the quality ingredients and sweet brioche bun. Your meal comes with a side of seasonal fruit.
There are plenty of places to grab breakfast in Lahaina, but this spot is a convenient one for guests staying at or close to the Westin. If you’re looking for fresh ingredients and a friendly chat, stop by for a stack of pancakes, a bowl of oatmeal, or a Greek yogurt parfait at Mauka Makai.
Insider Tips:
-There is no kid’s menu.
-Service may be slow, so be prepared to wait.