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    Sam Sato's

    4.3 (1k reviews)
    Closed 7:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Sam Sato's Photos

    SAM SATO'S ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - Sam Sato's

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    Reviews With Photos

    Mike C.

    Sam Sato's has not disappointed me in all my visits. Yes the wait can be long. But when you ono da kine, you can endure. Having saimin here is a must when I visit Maui. Good saimin is hard to get, even with the culinary diversity in Southern California. It's that good. Just as I remember having when I was small kine back on Oahu.

    Yummy fries
    Denise T.

    When in Maui must find this place,,, food is delicious and price is very reasonable. Workers are super friendly and very accommodating, it's always packed so the ambiance is fun, but well worth the wait. Go check them out!

    Dry mein, cheeseburger, beef stick, and french fries
    Brennan H.

    Came here to try out the famous dry mein. Got lucky and were able to be seated immediately as there was a table open, even though the restaurant was packed. Had tons of people waiting for take out as well. Server was super on it and took our order quickly. Got the dry mein, cheeseburger, french fries, and beef stick. Dry mein was delicious. Like friend noodles with some soup on the side. Noodles were flavorful and cooked well and light broth complimented it well. Got to try the cheeseburger as well. So flavorful. Reminded me of in-n-out with the thin patty and the mustard mayo that they gave on the side. The beef sticks were charred super well and had a nice meaty flavor. I ate it so quickly! Got some french fries too and they were hot and crispy! On the way out got some of their manju. Small, but delicious! Will be back again! Parking: Parking in the lot in the front or on the street.

    Sign in at the front
    Asma I.

    Tried Sam Sotos after seeing it all over social and had to check the hype for myself. It's definitely a small, hole-in-the-wall spot that feels very local and low-key, which I actually liked. I ordered the dry noodles with chicken -- flavors were solid and you can tell the ingredients are fresh and good quality. Portion size for the price felt pretty average, nothing that really stood out or made me want to come back. It's good, just not that good. Service was fast, host was attentive. Overall, a decent spot to try once if you're nearby, but honestly you can skip the hype -- not a must-hit. Rating 4/5.

    So Hungry, heard this place is the Bomb for Ono Grinds!
    Cindy G.

    Upon Arriving to Maui we had to check out the Sam Sato's for lunch before it closes at 2 pm. Was recommended by my co- worker who frequently dines there. So we tried the BBQ beef sticks, hamburger steak & BbQ plate which was so delicious! Homemade style just how we like it, also bought a variety of pineapple coconut, apple, blueberry, and azuki beans turnover and manju pastries. It was a 45 min wait to get a sitting, but it was worth it! Next time we gotta try the dry noodles!! Mahalo Sam Sato's.

    Fried rice
    Alyssa L.

    this restaurant offers traditional Hawaiian comfort dishes such as dry mein (like Saimin but dry noodles), breakfast items like pancakes and loco moco, and diner type foods like burgers and fries. When we arrived around 9am on a Wednesday (new years eve), there were already people eating at the restaurant. They have a takeout counter for takeout orders only but if you want to dine in, make sure your entire party is present, otherwise they won't seat you. Plenty of parking in front of the restaurant. Restaurant was very homey and had comfortable seating and booths. We ordered a family style mix of dishes since we came with a local friend and wanted to try all their dishes. I was really excited to try the dry mein, because I love noodles. The noodles were springy and I could definitely tell they were made in house but was a bit disappointed in the flavor of the noodles alone. I enjoyed it more with the dashi broth that they give on the side though. The fried rice and yakitori were also filling. My favorite had to be the banana pancakes. The pancakes were so fluffy, light, and the banana pieces added a sweet kick at the end. The entire meal cost us around $80 for 7 people which is an amazing price point!! I would definitely come back and recommend if you want some comfort Hawaiian food here in Maui.

    Menu (8/29/25)
    Marie B.

    Amazing local dining destination in Wailuku. Limited spots in the parking lot. We lucked out to be seated at a two top upon arrival (8/29/25). We started with half a papaya served with a juicy lemon wedge. Amazingly fresh! The Homie had a small loco moco and then later ordered a perfectly griddled pancake. I ordered a classic breakfast with two overeasy eggs, steamed rice, Portuguese sausage, and an orange wedge. I also glanced at their well stocked pastry case. Note: breakfast is served only until 11am Lunch menu and specials look equally as tasty. It was so tasty, we returned as our last meal before heading to the Kahului Airport (9/2/25). This time we had a short wait to be seated, just make sure to get your name and number in your party on the clipboard. We feasted on 4 grilled beef skewers and a small order of the dry noodles. No frills ambiance, but clean restrooms, and genuine welcoming staff. Genuine ohana and aloha spirit! Highly recommended!

    Menu
    Will V.

    The hamburger steak patty was not our favorite and I didn't like the tuna melt as they mixed what taste like relish in it. The dry mien is great as always and the cheeseburger deluxe is my go to, to pair with the noodles. We ordered two orders of fries and it never came out till we were almost done eating so my kids never had a chance to enjoy it with their cheeseburger. When I went to remind the waitress she said it was about a 30min wait. That's a long wait just for fries. She should have told us this in the beginning as I wouldn't have cancelled the ordered. Service was good but a bit too hot for me to dine in. It was really busy and loud and the wait can be very long. The restaurant isn't that big but it definitely needs an A/C upgrade!

    Julie N.

    So happy to have a chance to visit Maui and make our first stop at Sam's! We got here 40 min before closing, but fortunately, they were able to accommodate us! We were all looking forward to try their famous Dry Min and shared the Mac Salad, Saimin, Teri Burger & their famous Teri sticks (tastes like Obon) and Azuki & Lima Bean manju. True Aloha hospitality here especially since you can see all the Aunties behind the weathered screen door, making everything from scratch... and their mac salad is DEFINITELY on point!! Hope to visit again soon!

    Menu 1/16/23
    Wayne T.

    Had to come try this place based on all the reviews and recommendations. Was not disappointed. The staff is very friendly, hard working and attentive. Service was very fast. We tried the dry mein and the special Saimin soup, both reasonably priced. The dry mein was excellent with an al dente finish on the noodles. The pork was tender and the accompanying soup was good to add to the bowl of noodles as needed. The special Saimin soup had a different broth than the Saimin we've had on Oahu and Kauai. It was more of a miso broth than a shoyu broth and probably would not order it again. Overall, a great experience and will be back in the future to try some other items.

    Menu pt 1 5/29/25
    Geanna T.

    Since it was my first time ever coming to Hawaii, I had to try some Saimin. Sam Sato's specializes in dry Saimin, and, wow, it was delicious!! I wish I got her name, but our server was so, so helpful and kind! She gave us recommendations and how she likes to eat the dry saimin. thanks to her our experience was 1000/10. The noodles dipped in the Chinese mustard mixed with shoyu followed by a sip of broth - chefs kiss!! The noodles alone were great, but the combo with everything made it perfect. The mini loco moco was simple but delicious! And we finished everything off with their with manju which was recommended to us by our server. Both flavors were really yummy. Sam Sato's was such a great experience during my visit to Wailuku! The homey vibes of the restaurant (so many regulars came walking in), the amazing service, and the delicious food. I will remember it all fondly.

    The usual spread
    Kimberly V.

    This place has been a family favorite of ours for year... and when I say years I mean YEARS!!!! Over 20 years we've been going and the food never changes. Always consistent and always so good. The dry mein is something that is their specialty and you have to get it. There's something about the dashi that goes with it that just makes the noodles so tasty. Don't be afraid if there's a line, because there will be, they turn tables fast and people are considerate and don't just sit and take up space. I have yet to find a place on Oahu that can even compare to Sam Satos.

    Jessica Y.

    I have been a noodle girly since day 1 so Sam Sato's had my name written all over it! This is more of a local spot, so I'm so happy I found it! We came by for a late lunch and had to wait maybe less than 5 minutes for a table. Food came out at lightning speed. The portions are super generous and may or may not put you in a food coma for the rest of the afternoon. Make sure you get the skewers! My mom doesn't look noodles that much so she ordered the beef tomato dish and the beef was really tasty! It was her favorite dish. In addition to really quick service, they create a warm and welcoming environment. Will definitely be back the next time I'm visiting!

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    5 months ago

    Good classic food from childhood days. Everytime I go home to Maui, thats the first stop from the airport.

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    11 months ago

    Awesome old school atmosphere and great food! Prices were good and pastries tasted great

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    Page 2 of 26

    Sam Sato's Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Sam Sato's

    What time do they *really* close? The past two times we arrived on a Saturday about 12:30-ish, they were closed. Hours say open til 2p. But what is the real time?

    They close once a year for R&R for about 2 weeks. Currently they're closed 5/20 - 6/4 according to recent pics.

    Is Sam Sato's still open? Google says temporarily closed

    They are open!!

    What is manu?

    I think you mean "manju" - it is a japanse pastry, doughy outside usually filled with sweek azuki past.

    Does the manju have milk, eggs or butter? My friend is vegan, and I am looking for omiyage to being back for her.

    The baked goods aren't vegan - traditional/old school style Deliciousness!!

    Do you take credit cards?

    Yes, they do

    What's the difference between dry noodle, super dry noodle, and saimin noodle with broth on the side?

    Dry noodle sizes are small, large and double. They're served with broth on the side. Super is the large portion of dry noodles with more toppings (veggies, pork, fishcake,… 

    Do they serve vegan?

    No.

    What are their hours? Went by Wednesday and they were closed.

    They are typically open 6-2pm. Closed Sundays. They take vacation once a year.

    Do they sell out of manju early?

    Most times they'll have them in the mornings, but may run out. They sell a lot especially around the holidays or school breaks when people buy them in boxes as omiyage when they are traveling. If buying a lot and want to be assured to getting,… 

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop

    Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop

    4.4
    (421 reviews)
    2.1 mi
    $$

    OMG this place is so crowded! And for good reason, the product is very good. Who knew that you…read morecan find a european style cafe on Maui. Near the airport and beach access, this is a tourist favorite, although a fair amount of locals have been spotted here. I judge a bakery cafe on their croissant. And Momona's is on point. Fluffy inside, crispy shell and buttery goodness. The second test is their espresso. They use a mass produced bean, but the taste was ok. Has room for improvement here, but I doubt they are marketing to coffee snobs given the volume of patrons getting sweets and lunch fare. My wife loves her sweet treats and this is on her must visit list whenever we visit Maui. Happy wife Happy life. Aloha

    I have driven past the busy, posh-looking Momona Bakery many times and recently my husband and I…read moregave in to the curiosity (wondering, ...would they actually have fresh, delicious pastry or would it be an overpriced disappointment?). The shop itself was very clean and spacious with comfy seating. The line was quite long - but it moved along quickly. I ordered a double latte and he a cappuccino - looking at the pastry case everything was absolutely photo worthy. We chose the 'coconut roll' to share and took our order to go. We savored every heavenly bite. We will definitely return.

    Photos
    Seating area
    Seating area
    Lilikoi croissant
    Lilikoi croissant
    Lattes. I forget what they were. One had coconut and the other was some sort of Carrot cake. Both were a 5/5.

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    Lattes. I forget what they were. One had coconut and the other was some sort of Carrot cake. Both were a 5/5.
    Shikeda Bento Patisserie

    Shikeda Bento Patisserie

    4.8
    (91 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    The roll cakes at Shikeda are the perfect treat when you're craving something sweet but don't want…read moreanything heavy or rich. The sponge cake is so light, and the cream fillings are just as light, paired with fresh fruit. Nothing about it weighs you down. The strawberry and cream is my favorite, with the matcha strawberry coming in at a close second. But honestly, my suggestion is to go with the sampler box and get a slice of everything: strawberry, ube, mango, banana, matcha, and cookies and cream. You won't regret it. Just make sure to go early, because they sell out fast. Aside from the roll cakes, they also have bentos, musubi, and sandwiches, so there's plenty to love here. Shikeda does beautiful Japanese-inspired bento and patisserie, and if you have a sweet tooth but want something on the lighter side, this is the spot. Highly recommend!

    Saw this little spot while walking out to the car and the word musubi caught my eye as il always a…read moresucker to have one! While it's a bit of a turn off for me when there are no prices displayed for any of the items, I'll still support you at least one time. There was the spam only musubi and one with egg which is what left with me. Initial visual is that it's juicy because of all the space and rolled in furukaki which are both things that I love! Nice hot when it left in my hand and out the door we went. The taste is good as the sauce wasn't too salty and the rice was just right; not to hard or soft. The rice was still able to hold together and the additional furukaki was generous. Nice shop to try! Street parking was easy for us this time

    Photos
    Small store front - go early! Everything sells out.
    Small store front - go early! Everything sells out.
    Cake roll "birthday cake"
    Cake roll "birthday cake"
    Lilikoi Toffee Cream Cake

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    Lilikoi Toffee Cream Cake
    Luca

    Luca

    5.0
    (6 reviews)
    0.2 mi

    Ayumi was very sweet upon coming out with our cakes! We ordered the berry cheesecake and double…read morechocolate cake. They are very pretty and far better than what I was expecting. They were packaged with care, also being very delicious. While waiting for our uber she had gifted us a cute hello kitty purse.

    I noticed my fellow Yelp Elites, Jen M. and Bethani E. raving about this little dessert spot and I…read moreknew I just had to put it on my list of must-try's! I mean, just check out their reviews, how could you not want to try it? Maui Pastry's dessert are Japanese style and all handmade by Ayumi, the owner. She posts pop-ups on her Instagram acount at @mauipastryayu and you seriously need to be quick. They sell out in a flash! Thankful to Bethani for giving me the heads up and hooking it up! Because of her I was able to try two delectable cheesecake flavors: Caramel Apple Cheesecake with walnut & graham cracker crust and Dark Cherry cheesecake with walnut crust. Oh my goodness, every single bite was heavenly. My favorite of the two was the caramel apple! I am not super into cheesecake, but swear, these didn't taste as heavy or overly sweet and oh the walnuts in the crust were absolutely perfect! You can really taste the quality and care that goes into every single bite. If you miss out on the pop-ups, you can put in an order for a whole cake. Place your order at least 5 days in advance and text them for any questions! I can't wait to try them again. It does cost a premium, but for a once in a while thing, I am happy to indulge ;)

    Photos
    Double chocolate
    Double chocolate
    Luca
    Chocolate strawberry shortcake

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    Chocolate strawberry shortcake
    Wailuku Coffee Company

    Wailuku Coffee Company

    4.3
    (502 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    It's been a long while since I came to Wailuku Coffee Company. Market Street is always busy and…read moreparking is not really available on the street unless you use the Parking Structure (which is a close walk) but I get lazy at times and want to park close by. Since it was Sunday, I decided today was the day. I'm not a big coffee connoisseur because of a health condition I have and caffeine can affect me but I do love coffee (even if it doesn't love me) but I'll usually go with a Tea option or Smoothie. I decided on a simple smoothie so I got the Keiki Smoothie with Banana, Strawberry and Apple Juice. I asked the waitress what sandwich is the most popular and she said the Turkey Pesto Melt and boy did that hit! It really was the BEST sandwich. It was on a crispy, flaky...and might I add...buttery croissant with thick slices of turkey, tomato, creamy pesto aioli and melted provolone! It came with some chips and dill pickle on the side. The only downside was the price-it was about $17 so I'm sure I'll treat myself once in a good while to this. My small smoothie was $8 but refreshing nonetheless. I love the vibes inside with hanging plants and art work throughout. There was someone doing remote work or school in the corner with her sleepy golden retriever next to her, a few locals outside and some visitors inside. The workers are friendly and I saw one clean the outside tables right away after a few parties left. A nice spot to hit up for some nice breakfast, lunch and a coffee with a friend.

    Very cute coffee shop. Friendly staff and quick service. There is seating both inside and outside…read more Nice place to grab coffee and just hang out. I ordered the white mocha latte with Mac nut milk and a cold brew. The latte was mild and not really strong, but also not overly sweet. It was a nice balanced.

    Photos
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    Merch, bought another Tshirt. Now my fave from 2015 & a new one a decade later (8/29/25)
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    Merch & roasts (8/29/25)

    Sam Sato's - bakeries - Updated July 2026

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