Sam Sato's
A Wailuku institution founded in 1933, famous for its dry noodles and manju that locals have loved for generations.
Founded by the Sato family in Spreckelsville in 1933, the restaurant moved several times before settling at its current Wailuku location in 1993. The signature "dry noodles" feature thin local noodles tossed with char siu, bean sprouts, and green onions, served with broth on the side. Equally famous are their baked Japanese-style manju, filled with lima bean or red bean paste, as well as teriyaki beef skewers and fruit turnovers. The space is small and highly popular, so lunch almost always requires a wait; you must sign up on the list outside, though takeout is also available. A small dry noodle dish is about $12. Some sources state it is cash-only, so it is recommended to bring cash. Driving is recommended; visiting after peak hours can reduce wait times.
Opening hours
Tue-Sat 7:00-14:00, closed Sundays and Mondays (some older sources include Mondays; please check current hours)
Nearby sights
- ʻĪao Valley State Monument
- Waiheʻe Ridge Trail
- Maui Ocean Center
- Māʻalaea Bay Whale Watching
- Pāʻia
- Mama's Fish House
- Hoʻokipa Beach Park
- Nakalele Blowhole