Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Upcountry Maui, the Saturday Farmer’s Market in Kula is a delightful haven for food enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of local culture. With its charming ambiance, diverse range of vendors, and a backdrop of rolling hills and swaying palm trees, this bustling market offers a unique experience that encapsulates the essence of Maui’s agricultural heritage.
Our Favorite Vendors at Saturdays Upcountry Farmer’s Market
Maui Cones
Maui Cones might just be the most popular food vendor at any Farmer’s Market on Maui. The dynamic duo behind the team are Henry and Kam Yai Pascher, both born and raised Maui kids. Each of them grew up snugly inside the culinary world as well. Henry’s Dad, Mike (whom you’ll see behind the wok on some Saturdays), was the head fish cutter and monger and Mama’s Fish House for decades. Kam Yai’s family ran the popular Surfside Deli in South Maui (near some of the most popular condos in Kihei), serving the best local food, also for many decades.
When they joined forces, as both husband/wife, as well as business partners, they married the best of their worlds. Henry brought a deep knowledge of the sea, creating fantastic fish dishes like Ahi Poke, Ono Poisson Cru, and Panko Crusted Mahi Mahi. Kam Yai’s family recipes include succulent pork lau lau, kalo salad, as well as her father’s, Johnson, famous Mochiko chicken. This immaculately light and juicy fried chicken is an island specialty, and one of the most popular plates at the market. Please take note, it sells out every Saturday, usually within the first couple hours. So get there bright and early for a bite!
Itara’s Cupboard
Itara’s Cupboard is also one of our favorite spots at the market, serving up a vast array of brunch favorites, with a heavy emphasis on vegetarian specialties. Some of our savory favorites are the Breakfast Hash, Maui Bowl, Vegetarian Pot Pie, and Vegan Southern Style Biscuits and Gravy. As for the sweeter side of life, Itara bakes some gems out of her new kitchen in Makawao! Be on the look out for her famous Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse Cake and Banana Bread Brownies, you’ll thank me later…
Maui Empanadas
Occupying the southwest corner of the market, you’ll discover Maui Empanadas, a hidden gem showcasing the fusion of Latin and Hawaiian flavors. With their perfectly flaky crusts and a medley of fillings, these handheld delights transport your taste buds to new culinary dimensions. Whether you opt for the classic ground beef “Ho’okipa” Empanada or venture into the realm of fresher ingredients in the Vegan “Pa’ia” Empanada, each bite is a testament to the harmony of diverse culinary traditions.
Oko’a Farms
Venturing into the middle of the market, you’ll stumble upon perhaps the largest vendor, Oko’a Farms. Oko’a is an organic produce haven that embodies sustainable farming practices. From vibrant fruits and vegetables to fragrant herbs and micro-greens, their bountiful offerings epitomize the farm-to-table movement. Engage in conversations with the passionate farmers behind the booth, learning about their commitment to preserving the land and nourishing the community through their thoughtfully grown produce.
Small Floral Farmers
Amidst the vibrant culinary offerings, the Upcountry Saturday Farmer’s Market also boasts an impressive display of fresh flowers and plants, transforming the atmosphere into a paradise of colors and fragrances. A myriad tropical flora, including delicate orchids, resilient succulents, striking birds of paradise, and vibrant anthuriums, grace the market stalls, captivating visitors with their natural beauty.
The sight of these blossoms against the backdrop of Maui’s lush landscapes evokes a sense of awe and tranquility, enticing you to bring a piece of the island’s natural splendor into your own home.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener seeking to expand your collection or simply a flower enthusiast, exploring the market’s selection of fresh blooms is an enchanting experience that heightens your senses and serves as a reminder of the remarkable biodiversity found on the island of Maui.
Star Anise Indian Food Truck
Immerse yourself in a tapestry of flavors at the Star Anise Indian Food Truck. Vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and the unmistakable warmth of Indian spices beckon you to explore the culinary wonders of the subcontinent. From fragrant curries to crispy samosas, each dish is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. Indulge in the complexity of flavors and let your taste buds embark on a journey through the diverse regions of the Indian subcontinent. You cant’s go wrong with anything on the menu, but some of our favorites include: Coconut Pumpkin Curry; Dhal and Vegetables; Chickpea and Shitake Masala; and the Lamb Curry.
Maui Tonics
Maui Tonics was founded by Sundya and Gary, the first purveyors making fresh-to-order tonics on Maui. Using only superior, locally grown + organic ingredients, Maui Tonics contains hundreds of the most elegant compounds created by nature along with lots of loving nurture by our local farmers. Finding incredible fresh organic turmeric, ginger and lemons on Maui, Sundya developed the perfect health tonic. A daily dose of this tonic is the perfect way to incorporate the health benefits of turmeric and ginger into your daily routine. It also doesn’t hurt that their tonics are so refreshing on a warm Maui morning! Whether it’s a wellness shot to start the day, or a jar for the week, your body will be thanking you for stopping by Maui tonics
Aloha Raw Rainbow Foods
Aloha Raw is proud to offer some of the best culinary choices you can make on Maui. They manufacture delicious artisan gourmet ‘life food’ products only from selected vegan, organic and sustainable ingredients, mostly grown locally on Maui. They use a state of the art fermentation process for Probiotics rich condiments as well as a state of the art stone grinding process for their chocolate spreads. They truly make food that’s medicine for the body, mind and soul. The colorful and artistic presentation of the food makes it joyful to eat, while the synergetic combinations of ingredients and high nutritional value will make you feel energized and uplifted. Their Kraut Mustart, Mauinaise, and MacNut Chocolate condiments are must buys!
Raw Coconut Girl
Another vendor specializing in the the raw and vegan lifestyle is Raw Coconut Girl. Magdalena’s story is an incredible one and she’s always a joy to chat with. Her raw + vegan carrot cake and coco + nut balls are true culinary delights. She’s also working to specialize various Herbal formulas designed to aid the structure and function of the cells of the human body, as well as positively effecting the two fluids of the body: blood and lymph.
See You Saturdays Upcountry!
The Saturday Farmer’s Market in Kula, Upcountry Maui, is a testament to the island’s rich agricultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene. As you explore the market, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of flavors, each vendor showcasing their unique passion and craft. Whether you’re savoring the sweetness of Maui Cones, indulging in the Latin fusion of Maui Empanadas, or discovering the wonders of local produce at Oko’a Farms, this market is a captivating blend of flavors and experiences. So, don your sun hat, embrace the local charm, and immerse yourself in the enchanting tapestry of the Saturday Farmer’s Market in Kula.
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Aloha,
Anthony Sayles R(S)
808-280-6532