Just about everyone you talk to on Maui will tell you that Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop is a must visit – and they’re right.
The head chef here is kind of a big deal. Sheldon Simeon is not only a graduate of the renowned Maui Culinary Academy and James Beard Finalist, but was also a finalist on Top Chef.
Throughout his rise to culinary stardom, his Hawaiian heritage has always guided the way – and Leoda’s is basically a love letter to those foundations. The restaurant is named after the his mother, as an homage to the recipes that have been handed down for generations, the likes of which you can actually see as part of the charming little gallery of family photos hung near the back.
The focus here is on farm-fresh, sustainable ingredients that are sourced from local farmers. The pies are obviously the main draw here, but rest of the menu is surprisingly full of sandwiches and salads that are equally great, too.
About Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
Location
Just off the main road in Olowalu
Cuisine
Comfort classics with a Hawaiian twist
Vibe
Laid back charm
Reservations
No reservations here – the line can get long but usually moves quick!
My Visit to Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
While waiting in the infamous line for Leoda’s to open, we took turns perusing the little farmer’s market next door while the other stood in line, which made the time pass quickly.
After snaking our way through the line, we placed our order with the very friendly staff at the counter and grabbed a seat. We started with dessert first – a freshly baked loaf of banana bread and a hot cup of coffee. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you that we fought for every last crumb, it was that good.
Next up was the tuna sandwich, and thank goodness we decided to split it! In terms of both farm-fresh quality as well as quantity, everyone agreed that this was our best value meal we had during our stay on the island.
We grabbed another refill of their home brewed coffee (which was also delicious) and tossed the leftover crumbs to the rather bold flock of hens eagerly waiting beside our window window while we debated which pie to bring home.
The answer, my friends, is one of each – but if you can only choose one, go for the olowalu lime!
The TLDR
Leoda’s was the first place I tried banana bread in Maui, and ended up being the best! All the food tasted generous and was served in generous portions. Don’t miss this place if you’re in town.
