MAMA'S IN MAUI

Is this really my life?  Wow!  What an adventurous ride the last 18 months have been.  I recently got an opportunity to go back to one of my favorite places in the World, Maui, HI., and all in the name of work (I love my husband's job lol!), I'm just trailing remember!

I have been to the Islands of Aloha a number of times over the years (lucky me), a couple of times to Maui.  Each time I hear about Mama's Fish House, a restaurant that everyone seems to know about.  On past visits I have never made it to Mama's, so on this occasion I was determined to go.  The Conference we were attending allowed for a day to ourselves, so hubby and I rented a car and took a nice leisurely drive around the Island to Mama's.  It also happened to be my husband's birthday that week so a perfect excuse to go.

---

This lovely restaurant on the North shore of Maui at Paia, on the road to Hana, is set in a beautiful beach front location with a view to die for.  The food is also to die for - be prepared as you very well may "die" when you open up the menu and see the prices!!  Still, you only live (or die) once right? - So in for a penny - in for a couple of pounds or in this case (a lot) of dollars!

---

Crispy Mahimahi Rolls, my melt in the mouth appetizer.

My entree, a lovely mild fish called Ono, caught trolling in the Alenuihaha Channel by Shawn Conners. Sautéed in garlic butter, white wine and capers with lemongrass pilaf.

The fish on the menu (which is varied), carries the name of the fisherman and the place the fish was caught - a nice touch, and a longstanding tradition.  The food and service was excellent but most of all the setting was outstanding.

Mama's first opened in 1973, when Floyd and Doris Christenson purchased the beachfront property.  After sailing across the South Pacific for a few years in the late 1950's they settled in Maui to raise their family and finally, after 10 years, found the opportunity to share their love of fresh daily caught fish cooked Polynesian style.

Had to have a Mai Tai

Talking of setting, the interior which has been added to and expanded over the years, can almost solely be attributed to Bill Kohl or Bogey as he is affectionately known. Reminiscent of old Polynesia it was full of character.  I encourage you to click here for an article with more detail on The Christenson's, Bogey, and how Mama's came to be.

---

In addition to a fabulous setting, food and ambiance, the interior was also interesting with much to look at.  I was also captivated by two more things.  The entrance to the restaurant had some great pictures on the wall of famous guests who have come to Mama's over the years.  Being a bit of a celebrity junkie, I had to snap a few pictures.

The second thing that I was instantly drawn to, were the most fantastic flower arrangements I have ever seen.  They were absolutely stunning!  I particularly loved the one that looked like a flock of flamingos.

All in all, we had a great lunch at Mama's - another box ticked along the trail!

---

Mama's FISH HOUSE Website

---

You may also like:

More Maui, HI. July 2012 pictures