Koiso Sushi Bar

Maui's best sushi and sashimi is served at this small but acclaimed restaurant, which is also one of Maui's most difficult spot to get into. Like many of the top sushi bars in Tokyo and Los Angeles, Koiso is tucked in the back of a non-descript shopping plaza in Kihei, and the well-lit dining room is nothing special. But the super-fresh, beautifully presented, traditionally prepared fish here is nothing short of extraordinary, and the rice alone will make sushi lovers weep. A white board behind chef Hiro-san lists the day's offerings but it is best to trust his picks and indulge in the omakase here, letting the chef decide on a combination of dishes. Koiso can seat about 15 people, so follow the advice of the locals who told me before my recent trip: "Call as soon as you know your dates on island and take whatever night and time they offer. It's that good."