Monkeypod Kitchen is the place to go when you want truly tasty food and drinks while enjoying good vibes always. A Wailea favorite, this eatery serves as the lowkey division of Merriman’s, allowing that upscale enterprise to let its hair down a little. They start their day with lunch service, and then keep the fun times going well into the night.
You’re welcome to swing by for a mid-day pick me up, go all out at dinner, or just spend the evening enjoying drinks, dessert, and all the merrymaking. Whenever you come by, expect the highest quality of service and live music on the regular to elevate your dining experience even more.
You cannot expect to just walk in and get a table, however, and they don’t take reservations. Instead, you’ll get a warm welcome from the staff and an invitation to put your name on the list. If you have a seating preference, let them know if you’d like to sit inside the dining room, out on the patio, or at the bar.
Once a table opens up, they’ll send a text to let you know. You’ll have about 10 minutes to get back to the restaurant, so don’t go far. After that, you can order up food and drinks at your leisure. Plan to start with an appetizer or two plus drinks of your choice. Then, move onto the main course – but definitely try to save room for dessert.
Every last dish features the freshest local ingredients around plus culinary preparations that match Merriman’s ultra-high standards. Their menu changes often to reflect what’s available each season, so swing by as often as you can to sample everything they dream up. One thing you can always count on at every visit are all the signature cocktails, craft brews, and wine on tap.
While you dine and sip on all your selections, live music keeps the fun going all throughout your meal. The local musicians pull out all the stops to wow the crowds, making them well worth the visit all on their own.
Their most popular fare includes:
Monkeypod Mai Tai
The Monkeypod Mai Tai is their signature drink, and for good reason. It’s absolutely delicious. They make this drink by combining Kula organic silver and dark rum. Then, they add housemade macadamia nut orgeat, Bols orange curacao, and lime. To top it all off, they put on their amazing honey-lilikoi foam, which provides phenomenally sweet and sour kick.
Roasted Chicken Wings
The Roasted Chicken Wings are a simple yet decadent way to start your meal. This appetizer starts with free-range chicken tossed in garlic, red pepper, and local rosemary. After that, they roast it until sizzling, juicy, and perfectly browned. The whole lot comes to the table piping hot and with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Pete’s Fish & Chips
A true testament to their partnership with local fishermen, Pete’s Fish & Chips boasts all the classic flavors you’d expect from this dish. They make this entrée using day boat, troll-line caught fish. Each filet goes in the tempura batter and then takes a swim in the fryer until golden brown. The freshly made chips join the party right before serving as does the malt vinegar aioli.
Upon finishing your meal, save your fork and get ready for pie. If you want the full dining experience, you really cannot skip this decadent treat. Available in chocolate, strawberry, or banana, their cream pie promises to satisfy your sweet tooth in an instant. Prefer something a little lighter? Go with their Tropical Dreams Gelato & Sorbet instead.
Insider Tips:
-For discounts on appetizers, pizza, and drinks, drop by from 3:30pm to 5pm daily for happy hour.
-When dining with six or more in your party, expect to see an automatic 18% gratuity added to your bill. A 4% service charge gets added to all bills to fairly compensate the kitchen staff for their hard work.