Boasting an esteemed track record, Chef Lee Anne Wong’s newest venture, Papa’aina has quickly established itself as one of the hottest new eateries in the historic Lahaina Town. Operating out of the iconic Best Western Pioneer Inn on Front Street, known as Hawaii’s oldest operating hotel, Papa’aina marks its newest chapter.
Recognized as a Bravo’s Top Chef alumni and the innovative mind behind the award winning Koko Head Café in Kaimukī on the island of Oahu, Chef Wong moved to Maui in the middle of the pandemic to bring new flavors and concepts to Maui’s developing culinary scene.
Chef Wong had her eye on a few different locations for her next restaurant, but it was the Pioneer Inn’s 120 years of history and outdoor courtyard that drew her in. At the time she was scouting Maui locations, the courtyard wasn’t being utilized as a dining area and offered an over the top element that would help make the new concept pop.
The inspiration behind Papa’aina is its commitment to showcasing local ingredients and supporting the hands who cultivate them. Chef Wong can often be found shopping at the upcountry farmers’ market on the weekend, usually with a giant cart of the season’s freshest and best. Papa’aina has partnered with local farmers, ranchers, fishermen, and other Hawaiian based food producers to create a unique farm-to table experience in the heart of Old Lahaina at the historic Pioneer Inn.
Contact Papa’aina
- Hours: 8am – 2pm daily
- Where: 658 Wharf St, Lahaina
- Phone: (808) 661-3636
- Web: https://www.papaainamaui.com/
- Social: https://www.instagram.com/papaainamaui/