Mama’s Fish House sets the standard for fresh catch, and their menu prices reflect the daily ocean-to-table journey. If you’re planning a visit to this iconic Maui restaurant, you need a clear breakdown of the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices before you go. This guide gives you exactly that, covering every appetizer, entrée, and dessert so you can budget your meal and pick the best dishes without surprises.
Located on the north shore of Maui in Paia, Mama’s Fish House has been a local legend since 1973. Their menu changes daily based on what the fishermen bring in, but the pricing structure stays consistent. You’ll find everything from whole fish to shellfish, with sides and sauces that highlight Hawaiian flavors.
Let’s get straight into the details. Below is the complete menu breakdown with current prices, tips for ordering, and answers to common questions.
Mama’s Fish House Menu With Prices
This section covers the full menu as of the latest update. Prices can shift slightly with market changes, but these figures are accurate within a few dollars. The menu is divided into appetizers, soups and salads, main courses, and desserts.
Appetizers And Starters
Start your meal with one of these fresh, light options. Portions are generous enough to share.
- Macadamia Nut Crab Cakes – $22.00
- Ahi Poke with Limu and Inamona – $19.00
- Steamed Opihi with Citrus Butter – $18.00
- Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Herbs – $21.00
- Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell – $24.00 for half dozen
- Lomi Lomi Salmon with Avocado – $16.00
These appetizers are designed to showcase local ingredients. The ahi poke is a must-try if you like raw fish. It’s marinated in Hawaiian sea salt and limu seaweed.
Soups And Salads
Light and refreshing, these are perfect for a warm Maui day. They also work as a lighter meal if you’re not super hungry.
- Mama’s House Salad with Lilikoi Vinaigrette – $14.00
- Caesar Salad with Fresh Parmesan – $15.00
- Kula Tomato and Onion Salad – $13.00
- Seafood Chowder with Shrimp and Fish – $18.00
- Chilled Cucumber Soup – $12.00
The seafood chowder is thick and creamy, packed with chunks of fresh fish and shrimp. The Kula tomato salad uses tomatoes grown in upcountry Maui, which are sweet and tangy.
Main Courses: Fresh Fish And Seafood
This is the heart of the menu. All fish is caught by local fishermen and delivered daily. Prices vary by fish type and preparation method. Expect to pay more for premium fish like onaga or opakapaka.
Here are the standard preparations and their base prices:
- Whole Onaga (Red Snapper) – $58.00
- Opakapaka (Pink Snapper) – $54.00
- Mahimahi with Macadamia Nut Crust – $48.00
- Ahi (Yellowfin Tuna) with Wasabi Butter – $52.00
- Monchong (Pomfret) with Ginger Sauce – $50.00
- Uku (Gray Snapper) with Coconut Sauce – $49.00
- Kampachi (Amberjack) with Soy Glaze – $51.00
- Whole Lobster (Market Price) – Typically $65-$75
Each fish comes with your choice of two sides: rice, steamed vegetables, or a baked potato. You can also add a side salad for $4 extra. The macadamia nut crust on the mahimahi is a signature dish—crunchy, nutty, and not too heavy.
Steaks And Land Options
Not everyone wants seafood, and Mama’s Fish House has you covered. These options are pricier but equally well-prepared.
- Grilled Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce – $62.00
- Roasted Rack of Lamb with Mint Jelly – $58.00
- Free-Range Chicken with Lilikoi Glaze – $42.00
- Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu – $36.00
The filet mignon is tender and cooked to order. The rack of lamb is a popular choice for special occasions. The vegetable stir-fry is a solid option for vegetarians, though it’s not the star of the menu.
Desserts
Save room for dessert. These are house-made and use local fruits and flavors.
- Hula Pie with Macadamia Nut Crust – $14.00
- Lilikoi Cheesecake – $13.00
- Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream – $15.00
- Fresh Fruit Sorbet (Mango, Pineapple, or Coconut) – $10.00
- Banana Foster with Rum Sauce – $14.00
The hula pie is famous—it’s a massive slice of ice cream pie with a chocolate cookie crust and macadamia nuts. Share it if you’re full from dinner. The lilikoi cheesecake is tangy and light, perfect after a heavy meal.
Beverages
Drinks are not included in the menu prices above. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll pay for beverages:
- Coffee or Tea – $5.00
- Soft Drinks – $4.00
- Fresh Juice (Mango, Pineapple, Orange) – $7.00
- Cocktails (Mai Tai, Margarita, etc.) – $16-$18
- Beer (Local and Imported) – $8-$12
- Wine by the Glass – $12-$20
- Wine by the Bottle – $40-$150
Their signature cocktail is the Mama’s Mai Tai, made with fresh lime juice and dark rum. It’s strong and sweet, a classic pairing with the fish.
How To Read The Daily Menu
Mama’s Fish House updates their menu every morning based on the catch. Here’s how to navigate it:
- Look for the “Today’s Catch” section on the chalkboard or printed menu.
- Ask your server which fish is freshest that day. They’ll tell you what came in this morning.
- Check the preparation style: grilled, baked, pan-seared, or fried. Each changes the flavor.
- Note the price per pound for whole fish. Some fish are sold by weight, so the final price depends on the size.
- Ask about seasonal specials like soft-shell crab or local lobster.
The daily menu also includes a list of sauces and sides you can customize. Don’t be shy about asking for modifications—the kitchen is flexible.
Tips For Ordering On A Budget
Mama’s Fish House is not cheap, but you can manage costs with a few strategies:
- Share an appetizer and a main course. Portions are large enough for two.
- Order the mahimahi or uku instead of onaga or lobster. These are more affordable.
- Skip the cocktails and stick with iced tea or water. That saves $15-$20 per person.
- Go for lunch instead of dinner. Lunch portions are slightly smaller but the prices are about 20% lower.
- Check for early bird specials if you arrive before 5:30 PM. These are not advertised but sometimes available.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider sharing the hula pie for dessert. It’s huge and costs less than two separate desserts.
What Makes The Menu Special
The key difference between Mama’s Fish House and other seafood restaurants is the sourcing. Every fish on the menu is caught within 24 hours of serving. The restaurant works directly with local fishermen, so the fish is never frozen. This freshness affects the taste and the price.
Another unique feature is the use of Hawaiian ingredients. You’ll see limu (seaweed), inamona (roasted kukui nut), lilikoi (passion fruit), and macadamia nuts throughout the menu. These flavors are authentic to the islands and not found in mainland seafood spots.
The presentation is also a big deal. Each dish is plated with edible flowers, fresh herbs, and colorful sauces. It’s almost too pretty to eat—almost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost per person at Mama’s Fish House?
Expect to spend between $70 and $100 per person for a full meal with appetizer, entrée, dessert, and one drink. Without alcohol, it’s closer to $55-$75 per person.
Does the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices change daily?
Yes, the fish selection and some prices change daily based on what’s caught. The core menu items like mahimahi and filet mignon stay the same, but the catch of the day varies.
Can I see the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices online before I go?
Yes, the restaurant posts a sample menu on their website. However, the actual menu on the day you visit may differ slightly. Call ahead if you want to confirm a specific fish.
Are there vegetarian options on the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices?
Yes, there is a vegetable stir-fry with tofu for $36. Salads and sides are also vegetarian-friendly. But the menu is heavily seafood-focused, so vegans may have limited choices.
Is the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices worth the cost?
Most diners say yes. The quality of the fish, the service, and the oceanfront setting justify the prices. It’s a special-occasion restaurant for many, but the experience is memorable.
Final Thoughts On The Menu
Mama’s Fish House delivers exactly what it promises: fresh fish from Hawaiian waters, prepared simply and beautifully. The menu is straightforward, and the prices are transparent. You pay for quality, and you get it.
If you’re visiting Maui, make a reservation at least a month in advance. Walk-ins are rare, especially during peak season. Once you’re seated, take your time with the menu. Ask your server questions. And don’t forget to save room for that hula pie.
One last tip: bring cash or a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. The restaurant accepts all major cards, but some international cards get hit with fees. Also, tip 18-20% on the pre-tax total—service is excellent, and the staff works hard.
Now you have the full picture of the Mama’s Fish House menu with prices. Use this guide to plan your meal, budget your spending, and enjoy one of the best seafood dinners in Hawaii.