When you rent a car with us in Kihei, you’re not just getting a vehicle — you’re unlocking a journey into local flavor. Two must-try experiences on Maui are the classic plate lunch and refreshing shave ice — island staples that give you a real taste of Hawaiian culture.
A plate lunch is comfort food at its finest. Typically served with two scoops of rice and a side of creamy mac salad, it’s topped with hearty proteins like kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, loco moco (a hamburger patty with egg and gravy), or fresh-caught mahi mahi. You’ll find plate lunches at roadside stops, food trucks, and local favorites like Da Kitchen, Maui Fresh Streatery, and Aloha Mixed Plate. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal to enjoy at the beach or on the road to Hana.
After your savory stop, cool down with shave ice — not to be confused with a snow cone! This finely shaved, melt-in-your-mouth ice is drenched in tropical syrups like lilikoi (passion fruit), mango, and guava, often layered over ice cream and topped with sweetened condensed milk or mochi. Ululani’s in Kihei is a fan favorite, with flavors that taste like aloha in every bite.
With your Kihei Rent A Car keys in hand, let your Maui adventure include these two tasty traditions. Whether you’re road-tripping the island or relaxing in South Maui, plate lunch and shave ice are a delicious part of the journey!
