Maui is many things but is best characterized as a dichotomous destination. It is part heavenly paradise and part commercialized demon (think Lahaina, Kanapali and overpriced tourist trap restaurants with sub par food...ala Bubba Gumps). Luckily there are small towns on the island that are in harmony with the ideal getaway intimacy one hopes for when breaking away from the hustle and bustle of city living. One such town is Paia. In this town you will find a main road with a strip of specialized boutiques and NO towering high rise hotels. On my way to the Road to Hana I stopped off at a quaint French spot called Cafe De Amis.
This restaurant more than exceeded my expectations. Their specialties are DELICIOUS crepes and fresh juices/smoothies. The place is low key affordable and absolutely a must go to stop.
I ordered the ham and gruyere crepe (Delish!) which was accompanied by a a perfectly dressed fresh salad.
The second crepe on deck involved a combination of three of my favorite things...brie, avocado and apple. It is amazing how something so simple can bring so much pleasure. The pleasure quotient was escalated by a gracious dollop of creme fraiche being place adjacent to the salad. I left full as a tic and completely satisfied.
Cafe De Amis
42 Baldwin Avenue
Paia, HI 96779
(808) 579-6323
