We had eaten already when we stumbled upon Kitoko, whose name I recognized from while reading. The owner (?) had his cooking set up outside of the food truck and was preparing the most amazing roast chicken, and curry vegetables. He explained that he made the specials of the day while the regular menu was made inside the food truck. We were too full however tempted, and decided to go watch the sunset. But afterwards we wandered back to share a dish, and settled upon the beef special since we hadn't had any all trip. We had the smoked maminha tri-tip steak, Okinawa purple sweet potato, grilled maui onion and broccolini. Beautifully plated on real plates and silverware. No comparison to the so many common $21 food truck entrees and cost just a little more. The owner also is very sociable and enjoys talking about this food in a variety of languages with passers by and customers. On the far end from main entrance to the Kihei Food Oasis, or right at the other entrance, depending on how you enter. I wish we had found it earlier or we would have eaten there more than once! read more

lilikoi meringue tart ($10) - perfect tart to me actually - usually sour flavors like these tend to be too sweet as the baker attempts to compensate the sourness, but that highkey backfires because when the dessert is too sweet and sour i end up hating it - this one however was just right; not too sweet and it's got just enough crust to pair with the lilikoi braised beef loco moco - an elevated take on loco moco that made me realize a simple dish can actually be impressive - the immaculate presentation was one thing but the flavor and texture exceeded my expectations for how a loco moco can taste - the crispy rice was nicely charred; not too burnt; usually charred items taste overdone and burnt but this had a nice note to it; wish it was crispier though but it might be because we were waiting for ages for the rest of the dish - braised beef was extremely tender - sauce was great but i wish it was a bit thicker and less liquidy - the pickled veggies were pretty well made too; they were lacking some kick and brightening flavor but the quality is there shrimp kauai - the shrimp was so juicy and the sauce well done; so fresh it was naturally sweet - the head was golden too, filled with natural sweetness -flavor on point; i had nothing else to say about this dish other than it was near perfect - same comment on the pickled veggies here as above rating: 4.5/5 - every dish was well done; not perfect and can improve but i was already well satisfied - the flavor, texture, and portion made the meal so worth... probably the most affordable food we've had on this island given the quality and care they put into each dish - it operates as a food truck within this zen buddha looking garden - very cute at night with fairy lights, plants, and other decor - highly recommend - service was kind and friendly but it took a long while for the food to be ready; makes sense though given how elaborate their dishes looked! IG: @nom.noms.only read more

Kitoko Maui - IG: @nom.noms.only | loco moco & kauai shrimp - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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This was by far the best meal we had in Maui! We had read some ratings online and tried to find this place but had a hard time because Google Maps was not very helpful. I called and asked them for directions and they actually guided us. They were also really patient in explaining the menu to us and explaining the different types of fish and what not. Really glad we were patient and actually came here! Such a lovely aesthetic to the whole area and the food. Oh my goodness!!! The burst of flavor in everything was phenomenal! Such unique combinations and everything was so fresh and cooked so well and just mind blowing! Husband and I kept saying how we should have just gone there multiple times for food! Mahi Mahi Bento bowl with Ono instead. (It has Crispy Sushi Rice / Black Garlic / Market Vegetables) I really have no words to see how good this combination was! I was actually a little full going into dinner but ended up actually wiping this whole plate clean! The food was that good! Husband got the Roasted Organic Chicken With Coconut with Coconut Carrot Curry and Roasted Vegetables. Very different vibe from my item but also really delicious. Heat thoroughly enjoyed this one! The chicken was perfectly cooked and the carrot coconut curry combination with the vegetables and the chicken was lovely. He kept some leftovers for the next day because the chicken portion size was quite huge and we enjoyed it even the next day! Seaweed salad was also delicious! Super fresh and tasty! read more

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We've been coming here for 4 years and we owe Cole, the chef/owner, a review. The man has been feeding us fantastic delicious food using best of the local ingredients every time we visit the island. It's one of our absolute favorite places to eat in Maui. It's truly fine dining quality food at down to earth prices. There's a standard menu and always 3-4 specials. The Blue Door Bread and Pizza next door (same ownership) also turns out awesome pizzas made from 100% organic sourdough, and also has some awesome desserts. We usually order from both places for dinner. Chef Cole - if you're reading this, we love to see you bring back the tomato mango gazpacho with Kauai shrimp and the shrimp bao specials. Both are out of this world good and we miss them!! Thank you for always putting out such quality food clearly made with love, and for being so kind to your customers! read more

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$19 for a generous cheese margarita pizza with basil . Daughter loved the sticky bun, soft and fluffy. Solid choice for food in this area!

This is a review I've been meaning to write for months. Even all this time later, I'm thinking about the food and ambience of Kitoko. For a relaxing, healthy spot, Kitoko hits the mark. The setting of Kitoko is so beautiful and picturesque. We had the cod bento box which came with a side of fresh veggies. Next time we're in Maui, we'll definitely come back! read more

Such a beautiful lush spot for a good and wholesome lunch! I've been here and it never disappoints. The Steamed Mahi Bento is so good, simple yet so healthy. It's crispy sushi rice, steamed vegetables, miso, black garlic all in a nice bento set. Service is very nice all the time. Will definitely come back as always! read more

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This place has a yummy food truck and they sell fresh baked sourdough bread. We got the olive one and OMG it was so yummy. You pick and they slice it for you there. I recommend pairing with the Bellwether Farms Carnot cheese from Sonoma. read more

Kitoko Maui - Fresh bread slicing of sourdough yummy!! - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Reading other people's reviews, I think I may have just chosen the wrong dish. If I had tried the items others rave about, I probably would have left a more positive review. Unfortunately, the ono poke was a thumbs down for me. It tasted fishy, and the dish was more like ceviche than poke, with plenty of citrus juice and a few drops of different creamy sauces that seemed more decorative than flavorful. The garnished seaweed added a nice texture, but it wasn't enough to balance the strong ceviche like flavor. I'd skip this dish and go for the options other people are praising. read more

It's hard to describe just how 5-star Kitoko Maui is -- and the fact that chef is creating food at this level out of a food truck makes it even more impressive. I'm not sure I've had, or will have, a better meal on Maui. It was named one of the top local spots last year, and that recognition feels completely deserved. Set at the far end of South Maui Gardens, the outdoor seating gives it a relaxed but special ambiance. For our 30th anniversary, my wife and I shared the smoked tomahawk steak family-style, along with black garlic roasted rice, pickled carrots and onions, and a roasted vegetable medley with a beautiful spice mix. Every bite was outstanding -- perfectly cooked, deeply flavorful, and clearly crafted with intention. We finished with the lilikoi meringue pie, which was just as impressive and a perfect way to end the meal. Maui has some incredible dining experiences, and Kitoko stands comfortably among the very best -- food truck or not. If you're looking for a truly memorable dinner on the island, don't miss this one. read more

Kitoko Maui - Anniversary dinner done right -- black garlic rice, roasted vegetables, and an unforgettable perfectly smoked tomahawk steak. - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Super cool food truck spot- food trucks, gardens, birds, butterflies, chickens, shops- nice place to have dinner. We tried Kitoko- had the half lobster and Mahi Mahi- the lobster was okay- very sauced with a thick sweet sauce that was over the lobster, slaw and rice. It was a little overkill. Mahi was good. Staff were nice. read more

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Hear me out- this $125 tomahawk steak and $80 chicken is the most affordable dinner in Maui. When you are trying to feed your entire group and eat well, this is the way two go. These two platters with their generous sides fed a group of 8 who know how to eat! The steak was perfectly cooked and carved table side by the chef who handed out cuts that were cooked to each persons preference. The sides are not to be ignored either. These vegetables have main character energy. Not a second over or under cooked, sauced nicely and all the textures. The chicken was the surprise. I'm not a huge fan of chicken but when I smelled some cooking I knew we had to order it. It was completely deboned (again the chef is an artist) and lightly smoked. It was a Peruvian style not normally on the menu. That means it had a bright lime flavor with lots of aromatics. Lastly, why eat in a stuffy restaurant when you can dine in the middle of a tropical garden surrounded by butterflies and art. No notes. read more

Kitoko Maui - Tomahawk steak - bigger than your face! - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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I had the mahi mahi bento - it was excellent! Perfect combo of lots of fresh veggies, crispy rice and mahi mahi with a wonderfully flavorful sauce. I do wish they would give just a smidge more mahi mahi, but honestly this was one of the best food truck meals I've had on the island. Highly recommend! read more

Kitoko Maui - Mahi mahi bento - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

The owner was super attentive to his customers. We were there at about 4 oclock (we came from CA and we didn't adapt to the Hawaiian time, which is 3 hours later than Pacific time). I saw somewhere that this restaurant has crispy pork belly but I didn't see on the menu, so I asked the cashier. The owner heard me asking and removed the sign that was covering the crispy pork belly sign. Turns out the crispy pork belly is a special item for dinner. He let us order since we asked. Not gonna lie, it did not disappoint!!! Especially the sweet potato gnocchi - I am very impressed! However, the bao is not as impressive as expected. But if anyone saw this review, highly recommend the crispy pork belly, but not so much on the shrimp bao... Just a heads up yall, there are A LOT OF flies in the area!!!! Thank goodness the owner gave us the flies repellent(??) fan - it helped our eating experience slightly better.... The owner also told me about his little brother's restaurant in the Marina area in SF, which is called "Roaming Goat". If you're from the bay area, just a little shout out to his little brother's restaurant :) read more

Kitoko Maui - Grilled Kuaui Shrimp Thai Inspired Bao and Crispy Pork Belly with Sweet Potato Gnocchi - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Food: I was so disappointed about the flavors in my dish. I don't think they went well together or tasted good. The veggies were on the harder side although their fish was tender and their crispy rice had a good crunch. Their presentation was beautiful though! Service: Friendly staff although they take a while to get your order out. Atmosphere: Place is in a food truck location so there's plenty of outdoor seating. However, we had to move multiple times because there were so many flies and ants at our tables. Great for large parties and kid-friendly. read more

Kitoko Maui - Steamed Mahi Bento - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

I ordered an Ono poke, and whatever idea you have of poke in Hawaii, if you are going to order this meal just get rid of it. To me this was more like a ceviche, the ginger was too overpowering, the garnish was good, but the peppers are not my jam. The best part of this dish was the taro chips and the fish cooked in citrus aka not poke. read more

Kitoko Maui - Ono Poke - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

This place was amazing!!! Everything was so good! The pizza, the pork belly, the meatballs, the pastries - all of it! It's located in a food truck village, but don't let that fool you! It's really awesome! The service is very friendly and the ambiance is fun with old timey wooden mail boxes outside the restaurant. Probably the best food we had on the island read more

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First off I am obsessed with their fresh squeezed juices they are so good! Also the Peruvian chicken so juicy and tender and full of great flavor. Also, (for 79% of people reading this), the cilantro sauce they whipped up was just fantastic over the top. And the tomatoes and potatoes on the side were absolutely perfectly paired. Also that lilikoi shortbread the crust is moist and compliments the lilikoi perfectly. read more

Kitoko Maui - Lilikoi short cake - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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So good we debated going two nights in a row! Don't miss the braised beef bento. Every bite from the meat to the crispy rice to the tangy slaw was exceptional. This place deserves a Michelin star! Plenty of cozy seating and the most well priced meal we ate on Maui. read more

On my recent trip to Maui, Kitoko Maui was a recommended spot. A fantastic place nestled in an outdoor food truck hangout. This mini food hub has a laid-back, welcoming vibe where you can grab delicious food, explore different vendors, and even treat yourself to dessert--all while soaking in the natural surroundings. I didn't really know what to order, but the chef was really nice and recommended some dishes and you can really tell that he is passionate about food. I ordered three dishes: the Braised Beef Loco Moco, Lobster with Bao, and Fried Rice. The loco moco was good, tender braised beef with a rich, savory gravy, crispy rice, and a perfectly runny egg. The fried rice was flavorful, but had a tad sourness to it (it had a zesty dressing to it). But the real star of the meal was the Lobster with Bao--garlicky, buttery, perfectly cooked meat with a charcoal essence to it and bursting with flavor. It reminding me of Chinese stir fry lobster but more garlicky and buttery. The lobster paired beautifully with the soft bao and fresh salad, creating the perfect bite. It was so good that I had to come back a second time just to enjoy it again! With its incredible food, relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful natural setting, Kitoko Maui is a must-visit. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal or just want to stroll around and enjoy the food truck scene, this spot is a true hidden gem. I can't wait to go back! read more

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I love that they have a separate vegan menu. I don't know if they had a dedicated area for preparing the vegan items, but I did confirm that the plant-based menu was also vegan (everyone on this island really loves their honey, so you gotta ask everywhere). The person I ordered from was very nice and yelled out my name loudly when my order was ready so I could hear him all the way over at the coffee shop where I was sitting. Lovely spot to relax with a friend or alone with a good book. There's lots of shade, a koi pond, and dogs (and water for your dog if you bring them). They have wifi too, so you can scroll through social media or bring your laptop and catch up on emails. If you're with a group, I did see some bigger tables that could fit up to 8 people. My only qualm if I had to find something to complain about is that the bathrooms are not gender neutral, and there are flies flying around in the restrooms. read more

Kitoko Maui - Vegan bento - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Wow! Probably one of my favorite food trucks! Kitoko is located in South Maui Gardens - a mini food truck paradise. Options for everyone, and it's BYOB! While there are many other options our fav food came from Kitoko. We liked it so much we came back twice! We ordered the lobster bento and the crispy pork with ube gnocchi. Extremely delicious! We also got their lilikoi meringue tart, a great sweet but not too sweet way to end the meal! read more

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Kitoko continues to serve truly creative food using fresh and local ingredients. It's one of the first food trucks as you enter South Maui Gardens. Had their Ono Poke with Taro chips and the Mahi Mahi bento box. Both entrees had such interesting flavors and crunch with generous veggies included. A must-stop place to grab a meal in Kihei! read more

Kitoko Maui - Mahi Mahi bento box, Ono Poke with Taro chips - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

I come to Maui a lot for work, and I'm presently eating a dish here for the first time. This is the best food I've ever had in Maui. It is... perfect. read more

Amazing! I got the chicken curry with veggies and hubby got the lobster dish. It was all so delicious and plated beautifully too. One of the best meals we've had on the island so far. The chef/owner was so friendly and helpful, it's clear he takes pride in the food he makes and serves. The whole gardens area is beautiful and provides a nice atmosphere to enjoy while eating your food. read more

Kitoko Maui - Chicken with curry and veggies - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Had one of their specials of the day, smoked trip tip with Okinawa sweet potatoes, grilled onion and vegetables. Each component was perfectly seasoned, the vegetables were the best part of the plate with an al dante cook on the broccoli, savory roasted onions and incredible smoothe sweet potato puree. The trip tip had great flavor but was a bit on the tough and dry side, I wish it had been as delicious as the vegetables. read more

Kitoko Maui - Smoked "Maminha" steak - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Did I just get an amazing half of lobster from a food truck?! YEP!! I didn't even need butter!! Service was fast friendly and the wait was short and beyond worth it. The gardens are beautiful and peaceful as well. read more

Kitoko Maui - The BEST lobster I've ever had! - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

I didn't realize Kitoko was on the other side of the crowded food truck area in Kihei (South Maui Gardens), you just have to walk south into the zen garden. Hubby & I came and tried their Braised Loco Moco and were both very impressed! Something different from the normal loco moco, and we both really enjoyed it. The papaya salad was light and refreshing, the braised beef wasn't overly flavorful, more of a natural flavor of the beef and it was served with a crispy rice cube and fried egg. Hubby also got a Kombucha to drink, that was good and refreshing as well. Service was fairly quick & this side of the South Maui Gardens was quiet when we went. They have a bakery and pizza shop right next to the food truck and ample seating available & restrooms right by it. We parked right in front of the entrance, though it might fill up during meal-time rushes, then you might have to drive around. read more

Kitoko Maui - Front of food truck - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Pretty & delicious pastries!!! So aesthetic, unique, and tasty. We loved the matcha strawberry merengue and the banana bread chocolate pastry. We grabbed some after getting food nearby. Accepts card. read more

Had dinner here during our visit in Maui. My wife and I ordered the seafood platter. You can see the chef preparing your food. The food was delicious and the seafood platter was worth the $125 price. The lobster tasted delicious. Come check out this place. read more

Kitoko Maui - Seafood platter - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

WOW! What a wonderful way to spend our last few days in Maui. Out of all the places we have gone to, this place had the BEST loco moco and pastries. If you are visiting Maui, this is a must go to place. Food and service are excellent. You must try the pastries. This place is located in a very cute plaza with esthetic outdoor seating. read more

Kitoko Maui - Braised beef loco moco, papaya salad, and crispy rice Strawberry original pastry - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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I am so upset right now. I just got a sloppy Joe, I don't even know what that was. To start, I tried telling the guy the screen was broken so I could tip and he wouldn't stop interrupting me and acting like I was bothering him so much that I was uncomfortable telling him this meal was practically inedible. I have a baby, I'm starving right now, and I was too scared to ask him what this even is. I can't believe I paid for this. Literally ruined my night. Btw I live here. Stop treating locals like they're tourists. read more

This is a review for the dessert only. Had the likikoi meringue pie which was so delicious. The crust had a nice sandy texture and the lilikoi curd was perfectly tart and sweet. The light Swiss meringue that surrounded the edge of the pie was the perfect touch...ordered this from the display case in front of blue door bakery--just wish there were names and descriptions by each dessert type. May have to go back and try the other sweets too! read more

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Speedy food truck with great desserts! They unfortunately didn't have the specials, but we got the mahi mahi bento and the papaya salad. Both were excellent! Also tried a few pastries - the shop next to the truck also sells their pastries, and has a wider selection! read more

A unique spot in the South Maui Gardens, definitely a hidden gem Food was very fresh, healthy and flavorful. We ordered the mahi mahi and loco moco. Loaded with lots of veggies, which I feel is rare to find! Dessert tasted so amazing Order and pay up front and sit in the garden Street parking Lots of other food options nearby. If you walk further into the gardens, it leads you to an area of several food trucks. read more

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This is one of two higher end restaurants in the area where food trucks gather. It was an extremely well done fusion of Hawaii, Japan, and Okinawa. The chips come with the poke. The grilled sushi rice was interesting in the Mahi mahi bento. And, they have Maui made kombucha for drinks with tropical flavors like hibiscus. I got two entrees and one kombucha and shared everything with three adults. It came out to something like, $68. Needless to say it is not cheap but the culinary adventure was well worth the price. read more

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What an absolute gem of a restaurant. We went on a Tuesday night and everything we ordered, including desert, was delicious. Friendly service, a beautiful outdoor spot, and fine dining quality food. All at about half to a third of what the luxury hotels in the area will charge. Go the first night of your vacation and I guarantee you will be going back over and over again. Also check out the rescued tortoise Dozer. Support local, support those invested in the community. read more

Best dinner on Maui! Every single item on our plates was delicious. If you're thinking about it, just do it. A truly gourmet experience for $50 for two people. A deal on this island. And you can buy dessert after :) the garden center is also a beautiful location. Lovely! read more

Kitoko Maui - Mahi bento box - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Wow! Amazing experience here. Their food quality, presentation, and flavors are top notch. Saw the owner working hard, clearly everything was well thought out and it shows. Only regret was this was our meal on our last evening in Maui and we could not come back for a second meal! Only managed to snag a picture of the desserts which we took back to our place to enjoy. read more

Kitoko Maui - Tiramisu, lilikoi pie - Food Trucks Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Tucked within the South Maui Gardens is Kitoko which is like fine dining meets food truck in a beautiful outdoor setting. The different seating areas under the trees amidst the greenery rivals most Bay Area outdoor dining options that are often parklets. The mahi mahi bento and the short rib special came with flavorful sides like the Okinawan sweet potato with a miso sauce that was just as good as the protein. The desserts that can be ordered right at the truck or next door was just okay so in my opinion, the food is where it's at. read more

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