There are many restaurants close by The Whaler and on West Maui.  Below we have listed what we consider the best:

THE BANYON TREE: Fine dining in the Ritz Carlton Hotel.  Voted Best Overall Restaurant 'Aipono Award, Maui No Ka 'Oi Magazine in 2005 and 2006. Voted Most Romantic Restaurant 'Aipono Awards, Maui No Ka 'Oi Magazine 2007.  Expensive. http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties?KapaluaMaui/TheBanyonTree/.Default.htm

SANSEI: An outstanding dining experience at Kapalua.  There are two appetizers you must try: the Panko Crrsted Ahi Sashimi Sushi Roll and the Mango Crab Salad Hand Roll.  Among the entries you must try the Grilled Ahi and Asian Rock Shrimp Cake or the Mushroom Crusted Filet of Beef Tenderloin. Very reasonable prices. This restaurant also has a location in Kihei. http://www.sanseihawaii.com/

THE PLANTATION HOUSE:  The restaurant in Kapalua is noted for it's fresh fish. http://www.theplantationhouse.com/

THE TERRACE: Another excellent restuarant in the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Kapalua. http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties?KapaluaMaui/Dingin/TheTerrace/Default.htm

MALA: AN OCEAN TAVERN: The name is misleading as this restaurant has excellent dishes by owner Mark Ellman to fit all tastes. The prices are reasonable.  It is on the water behind the Canary near Safeway. http://www.malaoceantavern.com/

GERARDS:  This outstanding french restaurant is an excellent dining experience in a quiet location in Lahaina.  Expensive. http://www.gerardsmaui.com/

PACIFICO:  This restaurant at the South end of Lahaina has excellent fish, meat and poultry dishes.  Moderately Priced. http://www.pacificomaui.com

MAMA'S FISH HOUSE:  Located in Paia on the other side of the island this restaurant is noted for its fish dishes but it is quite expensive.   http://www:mamasfishhouse.com

HALIIMALI COUNTRY STORE: Located on Haleakala near Makawao on the other side of the island this "store" is really a fine dining experience.  Moderately expensive. http://www.bevgannonrestaurants.com/haliimali/

FOR FINE FAST FOOD

CJ'S DELI:  Located just up the hill from the Whaler this deli has excellent reasonably priced take out or eat in food.  http://www.cjsmaui.com/

HONOKOWAI OKAZUYA & DELI: This fast food restaurant has wonderful take out food and is just 3 miles away.

PENNE PASTA:  Here you can get a wonderful meal quickly or get take out food by Mark Ellman who also owns the Mala Ocean Tavern.  Most entrees are $14 to $17. http://www.pennepastacafe.com/