Sometimes, skipping lunch isn't the worst idea, especially when you know you're going to one of Maui's most renowned restaurants for dinner. The Hawaiian island not only has its fair share of gorgeous luxury rentals, but it's got a prime selection of fine dining options for travelers looking to upgrade their vacation just a bit further. Oceanfront terraces, tropical cocktails and island-inspired cuisine are only some of the standards you'll find at a number of Maui restaurants, so be sure to pack your appetites when you plan your exotic trip!

Here are some of our top picks for good eats in Maui:

Gannon's
This establishment is best for special occasions, and when you take a look at the ocean and mountain views here, you'll understand why. The awe-inspiring landscape is enough to make anyone swoon, and highly acclaimed chef Beverly Gannon serves food that's up to par with the striking scenery. It's so beautiful here, that many people choose this spot as their wedding ceremony locale. The Red Bar does create the perfect atmosphere for a reception, with cocktails like the "laven-berry," "tiger would" and "ocean mist" constant players on the menu. While dinner is surely satisfying, breakfast is perhaps the best meal here, because of the cooler air and the view of the boats heading out to Molokini, a crescent-shaped islet off the Maui coast.

Humuhumunukunukuapuaa
Naming your restaurant like this is just cruel, right? Well, after tackling that name for a few minutes, the local or villa concierge you're talking to will likely chuckle and reply, "It's 'Humuhumu,' for short." The name isn't just some silly trick, either - it's actually Hawaii's state fish. The atmosphere here is perfect for a date night, as the thatch-roofed open-air restaurant just screams romance and intimacy, and the dishes would impress even the most knowledgeable foodies. Offering unique twists on healthy and delicious ingredients, like ginger-braised kale, mashed purple sweet potato and avocado puree, this Polynesian-inspired restaurant is a must.

Plantation House
You might have thought the breathtaking view at your Hawaiian villas was all you needed during your stay, but The Plantation House insists you've got to check out their surroundings, too. Sitting high above the Kapalua coastline, this old-fashioned restaurant sets up its tables beside floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors so not one spectacular vista is wasted. Just like the other dining establishments mentioned, this traditional spot relies on locally sourced fare to make its decadent dishes, which include miso manila clams to start, the "fresh island catch" with coconut curry as the main course and a wealth of fine wines to pair with each.

Your Own Villa
What's the point of a gorgeous private kitchen if you don't use it? You can talk to villa specialists about setting up a personal chef to make special dinners for the whole family, or use your own culinary flair to concoct meals inspired by your own foodie adventures in Hawaii.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals? Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.