Ed L.
Yelp
On my last morning before departing Maui on my belated bday celebration, I checked out of my Airbnb around 11 AM, and found this place for lunch before heading to the airport.
I saw Paia Bay Coffee Bar i'm walking around Paia town the day before and thought about checking it out while watching the NFL games on a casual cheerful Sunday morning in late October 2024. I arrived here with the intention of getting beer and food. It was nice that they had restrooms also, just in case. I had to wait a little bit before they had to clean the table, but it is what it is. Our friendly server directed me to the table which was near the entrance, but not outside. I ended up staying here for about three hours or so, give or take. It was just a chill environment and definitely a rambunctious ambience, considering that people were cheering for their favorite NFL team at the time. I looked over the menu, which was definitely interesting at the same time quite and I open her in terms of pricing. I ended up getting the kimchi fried rice, which was pretty spicy. But I ended up getting beer and water to chase it down. I usually don't go to bars like this, but it was inviting and definitely a place to be on Maui on a Sunday morning. The vibe was pretty nice, and I could actually stay here all day watching people and the games on TV. Too bad I had to catch a flight back to Oahu That afternoon. Oh well, maybe next time I'll be back. The kimchi fried rice was decent yet spicy. Definitely delicious and really woke me up that morning. Happy birthday to me, or so it would be that day. The enjoyment that I have found here was good and Maui is a special place. I was glad to have found this place during my time here.
The overall experience here at the Paia Bay Coffee Bar was generally OK yet good and flavorful. I enjoyed myself here, even though it's more of a bar than a coffee shop. But they can give you both at the same time. The service was kind of slow on a Sunday morning, but that's how it is on Maui, it was slow, but good service. The bar itself was pretty large actually, accommodating about maybe 60 people at any given time. The restaurant bar itself is clean and has some bit of mood lighting because it was kind of dark in the middle of the room. Good thing I sat next to the entrance because it was comfortable for me. I had my luggage with me so it was nice to have that space to put my stuff down. Not sure if they also served coffee as well, but I'm assuming they do too. The kimchi fried rice was delicious, but was spicy and I did not know that it can be like that. It is what it is. The beers was good and I believe I had 2 with my Kim chee fried rice. And water to chase down the spiciness of the meal. I actually thought this place in a great location since I could just walk across the street and catch the bus back to the airport for my flight home. Easy Peezy lemon squeezy it's just that simple to come here and dine at the Paina Bay Coffee Bar.
The Paina Bay Coffee Bar is the perfect place to relax after a day of travel or before travel to or from Maui. They are located in Paia on Hana Hwy at 120 Hana Highway. They accept major credit cards as well as cash. As far as parking goes, I would assume that street parking wherever we can find it, since I walked here from my Airbnb up the street on Baldwin Avenue. Then I walk to the bus stop across the street to catch the bus to the airport. Although there's a public parking lot down the street on Hana Highway, not sure what the rules are. There's always rent a car or having Uber or Lyft at your disposal. If you're like me, the Maui bus is your best friend, since it does stop near here. I think it's route 35. If I'm not mistaken. And do tip generously. They are happy when you do this. Definitely recommended if you're in the Paia area and want to take a rest break on your adventures in upcountry Maui and need food and drink. Stop on by, they'll be glad you did. Have a cold one too!
5.0 stars for the overall experience. 4.0 stars for the service and 3.0 stars for the prices, but you can't beat location!
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