Stopwatch Bar & Grill is a true local favorite in Makawao, and for good reason. Their homecooked pub fare always boasts big flavor, comes in generous portions, and sticks to the ribs just right. In all their menu items, their fresh, local ingredients, like Maui grass-fed burgers, stand out beautifully. On top of that, they have a full bar serving all the best island drinks, like local brews, wine by the glass, and tropical cocktails. As if all that’s not enough, they put plenty of aloha into all they do, plus regularly roll out the live entertainment and special events.
You’re always welcome to call ahead for takeout if you want to skip straight to chowing down. But the real magic is in the full dine-in experience, especially during special events. On holidays, for example, they offer up a unique menu designed for the occasion, complete with wonderful drink pairings. When big games air, like the Super Bowl, they host watch parties with purpose-built menus full of all the fan favorites.
Their chill atmosphere is second to none as well, making this a place for both locals and tourists alike. They started out as a sports bar but have recently upgraded to a family-friendly restaurant and bar. So, all ages can waltz through the doors in anticipation of great food and tons of fun. Local musicians often play for the crowds while everyone enjoys their meals. Plus, they host karaoke nights on Thursdays from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
If you’d like a quieter dining experience, you can ask for a seat on the patio. As it only has a few tables, the atmosphere is a lot more intimate, perfect for a romantic date night. When it comes time to kick it up a notch, just go back inside and sidle up to the bar to enjoy all the action before heading out the door.
Fan favorites on their menu include:
5 Cheese Mac-N-Cheese
Made fresh on the daily, the 5 Cheese Mac-N-Cheese is rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. When you order this dish, you’ll get al dente elbow noodles tossed in a white cheese sauce. If you’d like to elevate each bite even more, ask to add jalapenos or bacon bits for an extra charge. Really want to kick it up a notch? Get both additions.
Maui Onion Burger
For all the best island flavors in every last bite, don’t hesitate to try the Maui Onion Burger. They create this dish from scratch by hand forming their patties using Maui grass-fed beef. Then, they toss it on the grill until it hits your ideal level of doneness and slide it onto a toasted bun. After that, crispy and sauteed onions land on top to complete this picture of perfection.
Reuben
The Reuben offers a tantalizing mix of savory, cheesy, and sour flavors that blend together wonderfully. This dish begins with the preparation of their high-quality pastrami by the boatload. Then, they shave it up and place it on rye bread. Swiss cheese and sauerkraut lands on the pastrami before the top bun goes over it all. The sandwich hits the grill until golden brown, and then lands on the plate with Russian dressing on the side.
Although it’s tempting to get your fill of all their wonderful pub fare, definitely put in the effort to save room for dessert. With amazing items like ice cream sundaes, floats, and cheesecake on the menu, it’s well worth doing all you can to avoid filling up too much. If you want to really get the full dining experience, treat yourself to their Kona Mudd Pie. With that, you get a huge serving of mocha ice cream layered in a cookie crumb crust.
Insider Tips:
-To get discounts on drinks, just come in for happy hour each day between 3 pm and 6 pm.
-They don’t have seating for large groups, so plan to split up and sit at different tables.
-Refills are an extra charge, even for coffee.
-Want the burger experience without the meat? Ask for their Beyond Burger patty.