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Nalu's South Shore GrillBWorth Trying

Name: Nalu's South Shore Grill
Address: 1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, Kihei, United States
Rating: 4.6

1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753 · Hawaiian restaurant, American restaurant, Bar · 4.6/5 Google (4994 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

Casual counter-service Hawaiian spot with lively vibe, popular happy hour, and solid seafood and breakfast; expect lines and self-service flow that some find frustrating.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Nalu's South Shore Grill delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by fresh seafood and standout breakfast favorites, supported by a lively open-air vibe and live music that creates genuine appeal. However, pockets of inconsistency—overcooked fish, bland rice, burger doneness issues—and inherent counter-service limitations prevent grade A territory. The result is a reliable casual favorite that exceeds typical restaurant standards but lacks the consistency and refinement of higher-rated establishments.

Restaurant Summary

Open-air and upbeat, this spot feels casual and lively from the moment you hit the line at the door. Expect counter ordering, a bar pickup for drinks, and food runners hustling plates through a room buzzing with live music. One diner summed it up: "Fun vibe, generous plates, but be ready to queue." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking leans island-comfort with fresh local seafood, hearty breakfasts, and playful sauces rather than fine-dining theatrics. Mahi with lilikoi-piccata, poke tacos, and a corn flake-crusted French toast draw raves, while a few guests report occasional overcooked fish or overly sweet elements. It is ideal if you want big flavors without formality and are happy with a self-serve flow. Families do well here thanks to a clear Keiki menu (grilled cheese, fish and chips, teriyaki bowl) and plentiful outdoor seating. Kids often enjoy the chickens roaming around, though some parents prefer indoor tables. If your crew favors simple food, burgers, pancakes, and fries are safe picks; adventurous seafood lovers have many options.

At a Glance

Lively open-air vibe with live music and happy hour deals
Fresh seafood and standout breakfast favorites
Counter-service model creates lines and bar bottlenecks
Occasional inconsistency (overcooked fish, burger doneness)
Expect to tip at ordering; limited table-side service

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

Feel-good island energy with music
Fresh mahi and flavorful poke
Unique stuffed French toast
Happy hour value on bites and drinks
Generous portions for the price

Points of Concern

Operational flow can feel confusing: order at door, pick up drinks at bar, limited table service
Lines at peak; bar queue may delay drink refills by 10-20 minutes
Inconsistent execution reported: occasional dry fish or wrong burger doneness
A few reports of flies/chickens near tables; choose seating accordingly

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$32-46 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Seafood fans: Pacific Mahi Mahi ($23) or Poke Bowl (MP)
Breakfast lovers: Corn Flake Crusted French Toast ($17) or Heavy Kine Breakfast ($17)
Kids: Loaded Grilled Cheese or Keiki Fish N Chips (both $9)

Perfect For

Casual island dinner with drinks and music
Hearty breakfast after the beach
Budget-conscious Maui meal with HH specials
Families needing a relaxed, kid-friendly spot

Location Insights

Area: Suburban Kihei shopping strip with beach-town energy, catering to vacationers and locals.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked commercial area; bright lighting and steady foot traffic.

Nearby: Situated in a shopping center near other eateries, bars, and retail; short drive from beaches.

KiheiKihei is a laid-back beach town with a mix of casual dining, local eateries, and family-friendly restaurants. The dining scene is informal and diverse, catering to visitors seeking fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired cuisine as well as locals enjoying everyday meals.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday08:00–21:00 Tuesday08:00–21:00 Wednesday08:00–21:00 Thursday08:00–21:00 Friday08:00–21:00 Saturday08:00–21:00 Sunday08:00–21:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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