Haile Maile is superchef Beverly Gannon’s wonderful place, and unlike most celebrated chefs you’ll find her there often, shepherding the place to make it run wonderfully. It’s not inexpensive, and it’s not easy to get reservations despite it’s challenging location–totally off the beaten path part way up Heleakela. But it’s great.
First is the decor. Whoever does their flower arrangements is a genius and an artist. When a lumpy 250 pound guy who dresses in board shorts and grubby T shirts takes note of the flowers you know there’s something special going on. Nice art everywhere too. I really like their bar and they always have great bartenders. Last week we decided to eat at the bar instead of the table we had reserved because we were so enjoying our conversation with the bartender, a nice guy named Tim Garcia. The couple sitting next to us who were on their way to the airport immediately after to return to Florida made the same decision. We had a grand time and great meal. Turns out Tim is a very talented sculptor–we’ve seen and enjoyed his work. You can see some at www.mauisculpture.com .
Haile Maile has fabulous Mango Magheritas. I’ve never been able to duplicate the flavor, though I have the precise recipe. I always tend to have the fish curry, though I also love the duck tacos, I guess they do them as quesadillas now. Duck confit in a taco. Yikes.
I’ve also had the ribs–they were spectacular–and we go sometimes for lunch and I enjoy their soups. The lamb is great too, in fact I haven’t had a meal at Haile Maile that I could describe as anythying but excellent. The wait staff makes fine recommendatioins, they have a good wine list and wonderful desserts.
Hello,
How can I get reservations for the restaurant? Is there a number I call or can I make the reservation through this. We are looking at this Friday at 7:00 pm for two people.
Thank you for consideration and time!
Scott Kunimura
Sure, they’re in the Maui yellow pages. You can just call 411 and ask for the restaurant. It’s true you usually need a reservation in peak times, but not for lunch, and I think lunch is wonderful there. You can also eat at the bar, and that’s a lot of fun.