While celebrating our honeymoon half way across the world in Hawaii, my husband and I have found that the same basic qualities that set Turner’s apart apply no matter where you order your seafood. Although the local options here are Mahi-Mahi and Opah instead of haddock and cod, the many family owned businesses that have carved out a successful place in Hawaii are clearly passionate about quality, freshness authenticity and supporting their local fishermen.

Although the options for local seafood are somewhat endless here in Maui, my husband and I were set on trying the acclaimed Mama’s Fish House Restaurant based on a recommendation from Kathi Turner, who spent time on Hawaii growing up in a military family. Trusting that the Turners know their seafood, we knew we wouldn’t be disappointed, and we surely were not!!

Mama’s Fish House is a quaint but classy establishment just west if Pa’ia, a small hippie town made famous by the world class wind surfers that pass through, traveling from afar to ride Maui’s epic north coast waves. The menu changes daily, and all the fish is caught day-of for a creative and versatile menu. With an emphasis on sourcing locally for freshness and quality, each menu item even lists the name of the fishermen or boat that landed your dinner!

Not a single detail in this restaurant has been overlooked- like Turner’s, every detail from the decor to the distinctive and creative menu speak to the culture, beauty and traditions of the area.

For starters, we enjoyed the wonton shrimp and a bowl of lobster luau soup- both were delicious and the presentation of everything was beautiful. For dinner, we enjoyed a locally caught Ahi tuna and a traditional Hawaiian platter with grilled mahi mahi, wild boar, and traditional Hawaiian poi.

We realize it may be a bit out of the way but if you ever make it to Maui, it’s definitely worth checking out this amazing spot that comes highly recommended by the Turners team.

Aloha and Happy New Year!