Gauri S.
Yelp
I had heard so much about Hula Grill before my Maui trip, and I was excited to try it, so I made a reservation in advance. However, I didn't realize that Hula Grill actually has two separate dining areas--one is a semi-fine dining restaurant, and the other is a more casual Barefoot Bar. I also didn't know that the Barefoot Bar doesn't require reservations, and it has a completely different menu. So, when we arrived, we found ourselves at the restaurant for drinks and appetizers before moving on to the more laid-back Barefoot Bar for a different vibe.
At the restaurant, we decided to start with a couple of appetizers: the Lobster, Shrimp & Scallop Potstickers and the Housemade Focaccia. The potstickers had a distinct flavor that I didn't particularly enjoy--there was something about the combination of seafood and seasoning that didn't sit well with my palate. However, my husband thought they were delicious, so it was just a matter of personal taste. The Housemade Focaccia, on the other hand, was quite good--soft, flavorful, and served with a tasty dipping oil and sauce. We also had a hibiscus cocktail, whose name escapes me now, but it was fantastic--refreshing, vibrant, and perfectly balanced.
After our time at the restaurant, we headed over to the Barefoot Bar, which had a much more relaxed, lively atmosphere. There was a hula dancer performing, and live music was playing, making it a fun place to unwind. It felt like the perfect spot to relax by the beach with the sand under our feet. We decided to try the Hula Cheeseburger, which, while satisfying, wasn't anything extraordinary. It was a decent burger, but didn't quite live up to the excitement of the surroundings.
All in all, Hula Grill offered a great mix of experiences. The restaurant provided a nice, more refined meal, while the Barefoot Bar delivered a fun, laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying drinks, music, and the beautiful beach. While the food didn't blow me away, the overall experience was definitely memorable, especially with the entertainment and beachside setting. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the Maui vibe.