Ohana Island Grindz
A casual Upcountry Maui spot for Hawaiian comfort food, breakfast plates, saimin, waffles, and ice cream. Best for a daytime stop in historic Makawao with counter-service convenience and limited seating.
- Breakfast and lunch service
- Takeout available
- Limited seating
- Family-friendly casual stop
Ohana Island Grindz is a compact Upcountry Maui stop that blends Hawaiian comfort food with an ice cream-shop sensibility in the heart of historic Makawao. It stands out for being easygoing and practical: a place for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet break where the menu ranges from local plate-lunch staples to waffles, saimin, and dessert. The concept feels rooted in neighborhood life rather than destination dining, which is part of its appeal.
What it does best
This is a solid choice for straightforward, satisfying local food. The kitchen leans into Hawaiian comfort favorites like loco moco, shoyu chicken, brisket, roast pork, hamburger steak, and saimin, while also making room for breakfast plates, sandwiches, salads, acai bowls, and waffles. That mix gives the restaurant a broader appeal than a narrow plate-lunch counter, and it makes the place especially useful for travelers who want one stop that can cover both a savory meal and something sweet.
The dessert side matters here, too. Ice cream and float-style treats are part of the identity, not an afterthought, and they help give the restaurant a more playful, family-friendly edge. The business also emphasizes local ingredients and Maui partners, which adds to its sense of place.
The experience
Expect a casual, counter-service setup with limited seating rather than a full sit-down dining room. The feel is homey and unfussy, with a small-town Makawao character that suits the Upcountry setting. It is the kind of place that works well for a quick stop between sightseeing errands, a breakfast on the way out of town, or a relaxed lunch without much ceremony.
That smaller footprint is part of the tradeoff. Seating can be tight, so dine-in may feel less comfortable during busy periods. Takeout is a smart option if timing matters or if you want to keep moving through Upcountry.
Who it’s best for
Ohana Island Grindz is a strong fit for families, early risers, and travelers who want accessible Hawaiian comfort food without a fuss. It also suits visitors spending time in Makawao or pairing the area with other Upcountry stops.
It is a weaker fit for anyone looking for a long, leisurely meal, a polished restaurant setting, or a dinner destination. The hours are daytime-focused, and the menu is built for breakfast and lunch rather than an evening out.
