Oldest Seafood restaurant in Hawaii | Mama’s Fish House in Muai since 1973

Introduction to Mama’s Fish House
Mama’s Fish House, nestled in the scenic town of Paia on the island of Maui, Hawaii, stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and Polynesian charm. Founded by Floyd and Doris Christenson, Mama’s Fish House has a rich history dating back to the early days of Hawaii’s statehood. What began as a humble endeavor to explore the flavors of Polynesia has evolved into a world-renowned dining destination, attracting visitors from across the globe.

History and Vision
Long before the influx of tourists, Floyd and Doris embarked on a journey to Maui, captivated by the allure of the islands. Inspired by the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Hawaii, they envisioned a restaurant that would showcase the bounties of the sea and the richness of Polynesian cuisine. Mama’s Fish House became the embodiment of their vision, offering a culinary experience rooted in tradition and innovation.

The Legacy Continues
Over the years, Mama’s Fish House has become more than just a restaurant—it’s a cherished institution steeped in tradition and community. Artists, craftsmen, and chefs have joined the Christensons in their mission, preserving the spirit of old Polynesia and sharing its story with each guest who walks through the doors. Today, their legacy lives on as Mama’s Fish House continues to delight diners with its exceptional cuisine and warm hospitality.

Contact Information

• Address: 799 Poho Pl, Paia, Maui, HI 96779-9708
• Phone: +1 808-579-8488
• Website: Mama’s Fish House
• Facebook: Mama’s Fish House
• Instagram: Mama’s Fish House
• Menu: View Menu
• Email: info@mamasfishhouse.com

Hours of Operation
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:45 PM
Location and Parking
Situated right on the beach, Mama’s Fish House is conveniently located 1.5 miles past Paia on the road to Hana. Guests arriving by GPS should look for the fishing boat at the entrance to the parking lot, as GPS devices may direct them to the service entrance. Complimentary valet parking is available, and guests dropping off individuals needing assistance can do so at the service entrance before valeting their vehicles at the main entrance.

Restaurant Features
Mama’s Fish House offers a range of features to enhance the dining experience, including reservations, ample seating, valet parking, highchairs, wheelchair accessibility, a full bar, and a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences. Whether you’re seeking a waterfront dining experience or live music by the beach, Mama’s Fish House promises an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Maui.

10 Things to Love About Mama’s Fish House

1. Recommended Dishes: Visitors rave about the mouthwatering dishes at Mama’s Fish House, such as the fish stuffed with Crab & Lobster and the Ahi & Mahi-Mahi Curry. Each bite is a flavorful delight that leaves a lasting impression.
2. Great Service: The staff at Mama’s Fish House are outstanding, providing attentive and welcoming service that enhances the dining experience. From knowledgeable menu recommendations to friendly interactions, the staff ensure a memorable visit for every guest.
3. Scenic Views: Situated on a private beach, Mama’s Fish House offers breathtaking ocean views that create a serene and picturesque backdrop for your meal. The stunning scenery adds an extra touch of magic to your dining experience.
4. Exceptional Atmosphere: Step into Mama’s Fish House and immerse yourself in the ambiance of old Hawaii. The Polynesian décor and relaxed vibe transport you to a bygone era, creating a charming and inviting atmosphere to enjoy your meal.
5. Delicious Food: Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure at Mama’s Fish House. From fresh seafood to delectable desserts, every dish is crafted with care and bursting with flavor, earning high praise from diners.
6. Unforgettable Experience: Dining at Mama’s Fish House is more than just a meal—it’s an experience to cherish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, Mama’s Fish House ensures an unforgettable journey from start to finish.
7. Attention to Detail: From the personalized greeting on your table to the impeccable service, Mama’s Fish House pays attention to every detail to ensure a memorable dining experience for each guest. Every aspect of your visit is carefully curated for maximum enjoyment.
8. Warm Hospitality: Feel right at home with the warm hospitality of Mama’s Fish House. The friendly staff, Hawaiian shirts, and genuine smiles create a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family.
9. Varied Menu: With a diverse menu featuring seafood specialties and other mouthwatering options, Mama’s Fish House offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer other culinary delights, you’ll find a dish to satisfy your cravings.
10. Worth the Splurge: While dining at Mama’s Fish House may be a splurge, it’s a worthwhile investment in an exceptional dining experience. From the quality of the food to the stunning location, every aspect of your visit exceeds expectations, making it a dining destination worth returning to time and time again.

10 things that customers disliked about Mama’s Fish House:

1. Disliked Dishes: Some visitors found that the dishes at Mama’s Fish House did not live up to their expectations, especially considering the high prices. While some dishes were praised, others were found to be mediocre or even disappointing.
2. Overpriced Drinks: Several patrons mentioned that the mixed drinks were mostly fruit juice and sugar water, containing very little alcohol. Despite looking appealing, the drinks were not worth the high price tag.
3. Inconsistent Service: Complaints about service included getting orders wrong, long wait times, and unprofessional behavior from staff members, such as rudeness and slow service.
4. Pricey and Overrated: Many customers felt that Mama’s Fish House was overrated and overpriced for the quality of food and service provided. Some mentioned that there are better dining options available on Maui for a fraction of the cost.
5. Difficulty with Reservations: Some guests experienced challenges with making reservations, either due to limited availability or difficulties with the reservation system. Additionally, the requirement for online reservations and the strict cancellation policy were mentioned as drawbacks.
6. Unpleasant Parking Experience: A few visitors reported negative interactions with the valet parking staff, which left them with a poor impression of the restaurant even before dining.
7. Portion Sizes and Side Dishes: Complaints about portion sizes and side dishes being too small for the price were mentioned by some diners. They felt that the portions did not justify the high prices charged by the restaurant.
8. Mistreatment of Guests: Instances of mistreatment by staff, including being made to wait excessively or being treated rudely, were reported by several customers. This included feeling unwelcome or disrespected during their visit.
9. Difficulty for Walk-Ins: Customers who attempted to walk in without a reservation encountered challenges, such as long wait times or being turned away altogether, despite the restaurant appearing to have available tables.
10. Lackluster Food Experience: While some diners enjoyed their meals, others found the food to be underwhelming, considering the hype surrounding Mama’s Fish House. They felt that the dishes did not meet their expectations for taste and quality.

Overall, while Mama’s Fish House received praise for its ambiance and some of its dishes, there were significant criticisms regarding pricing, service quality, and consistency, which impacted the overall dining experience for many customers.

10 Important FAQs about Mama’s Fish House

1. What is Mama’s Fish House?
   • Mama’s Fish House is a renowned restaurant located in Paia, Maui, Hawaii, offering a unique culinary experience inspired by Polynesian cuisine and the bounty of the sea.
2. Who founded Mama’s Fish House?
   • Mama’s Fish House was founded by Floyd and Doris Christenson, who were captivated by the beauty and culture of Hawaii and envisioned a restaurant that would showcase its flavors and traditions.
3. Where is Mama’s Fish House located?
   • Mama’s Fish House is located at 799 Poho Pl, Paia, Maui, HI 96779-9708, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Maui, Hawaii.
4. What are the restaurant’s hours of operation?
   • Mama’s Fish House is open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:45 PM, allowing guests to enjoy its culinary delights throughout the day.
5. What features does Mama’s Fish House offer?
   • Mama’s Fish House provides various features to enhance the dining experience, including reservations, ample seating, valet parking, wheelchair accessibility, a full bar, and a diverse menu catering to different dietary preferences.
6. What are some recommended dishes at Mama’s Fish House?
   • Visitors rave about dishes like the fish stuffed with Crab & Lobster and the Ahi & Mahi-Mahi Curry, which showcase the restaurant’s commitment to fresh seafood and flavorful ingredients.
7. How can I make a reservation at Mama’s Fish House?
   • Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or by calling +1 808-579-8488, ensuring that you secure a table for your desired dining experience.
8. Is parking available at Mama’s Fish House?
   • Complimentary valet parking is available for guests, with drop-off assistance provided at the service entrance for those requiring extra support.
9. What are some common criticisms of Mama’s Fish House?
   • While Mama’s Fish House receives praise for its ambiance and some dishes, criticisms include issues with service consistency, pricing, reservation difficulties, and occasional dissatisfaction with food quality.
10. Is dining at Mama’s Fish House worth it?
    • While opinions vary, many guests find the unique atmosphere, scenic views, and some standout dishes make dining at Mama’s Fish House a memorable experience worth the investment. However, factors such as pricing and service quality should be considered when planning your visit.

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