Makawao Public House, which opened in December 2023, was designed to be a comfortable gathering place in Upcountry Maui.
According to chef/owner Julia Tallman, Makawao Steak House — which closed in 2019 — was open for more than 40 years in the eatery’s current building.
“Our Upcountry community has many memories here,” she says. “We wanted to keep the nostalgia, while also upgrading the building. I wanted to have a place where everyone felt welcome and is treated like family.”
She explains that the business pays tribute to the Maui’s historic paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town, while its name focuses on the idea of being a gathering place for the community.
“In the 17th century, drinking establishments were only for the upper-class citizens,” Tallman says. “Public houses were created so the everyday person could enjoy a drink out. I want this restaurant/bar to serve everyone.”
The restaurant’s menu features a blend of traditional favorites, along with unique options, in an effort to “pay homage to the past while embracing innovation,” according to Tallman. Popular entrees range from fish and chips ($27) and Japanese-style steak ($51) to fried chicken sandos ($24) and the Paniolo pie ($24). The latter is a hearty combo of Maui Nui venison, beef short ribs, ‘uala, carrots, onions, mashed potatoes and pecorino.
Makawao Public House recently launched a new happy hour menu, available from 4 to 6 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays and from 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays to Sundays. The happy hour menu features discounts on some of the most popular pūpū, including chicken wings ($12, regular price $18) and truffle veggies ($12, regular price $15).
The happy hour menu also features exclusive dishes, including tofu katsu ($10) topped with Gingah Spread Man sauce; hurricane fries ($8) with kabayaki, spicy mayo and furikake ($8); and rib-eye sliders ($10) with white American cheese, sauteed onions, and creamy horseradish between brioche buns.
So far, the single smashburger ($12) — complete with a 1/4-pound wagyu patty, American cheese, sauteed onions and burger sauce — has been a customer favorite.
“The menu is a collection of my favorite dishes, gathering inspiration from my travels, as well as food we grew up eating here on Maui,” Tallman says.
Happy hour also features $2 off all drinks. Signature cocktails include the Public House margarita ($16), old fashioned ($18), and coconut girl ($16). The latter is made with Pau vodka, lemon, pineapple, strawberry, coconut, honey, clarified milk and coconut foam.
The restaurant is open daily starting at 4 p.m., and it also offers a Sunday brunch starting at 10 a.m.
“We are locally owned and operated, we love collaborating with the community, and we have something for everyone,” Tallman says.
CONTACT
Makawao Public House
3612 Baldwin Ave., Makawao
808-298-0590
https://www.makawaopublichouse.com/
Instagram: @makawaopublichouse
Open 4 to 9 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays, 4 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.
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