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January 2024 by Maui World Travelers
Mama Ding's has been around for a very, very long time. Mention the name and some will exclaim "They're still open?!" And while I have yet to step foot inside, I got a chance to try something from a co-worker's takeout that I'm definitely going back for!MENU:Puerto Rican Plate Lunch (pastele, gandule rice, bacalao salad, empanadillas, Portuguese sausage & dessert), or broken down into ala carte, box and pan-sized options.FOOD:EmpanadillasI absolutely love meat turnovers. Empanadas, empanadillas... What's the difference between the two? Nothing really, except for the fact that in Puerto Rico, empanadas are referred to as breaded steak or chicken and empanadillas are meat turnovers. Other areas of Spanish-speaking folk call meat turnovers, empanadas. Whatever. All you need to know is that if you like either name, you're going to absolutely LOVE these. It is a well-known fact to friends that I don't care for pastele anything due to its odd and weak flavor. I've had a version from another Maui establishment as a stew and didn't care for it. So when I was offered a pastele-filled empanadilla, I grimaced at the opportunity but was all smiles and moans after devouring it! The warm dough was thick like a pie crust and insanely soft, flaky and buttery. Once you get past that delicious shell, the pastele filling bursts your tastebuds with mouth-watering, savory, tomatoey flavors that takes these bad boys over the edge! OMG. One was definitely not enough.TIP:They're a takeout only biz with odd hours and ordering procedures. Definitely call ahead.OVERALL:They're right up there with the best empanadas we had in Buenos Aires, Argentina!
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August 2023 by Marilyn Clark
I lived on Maui for 20+ years and never knew about Mama Ding's.I only know that the family who has this restaurant must be wonderful.They truly know the aloha spirit and the true meaning of ohana.I'm writing this because of a personal experience and the privilege to know what they do for others.If I am to return to Maui, that will be the first place I go.And hopefully, to experience their hospitality and the food.I m sure it's outstanding because of the love they show in many ways.
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August 2022 by Bethani E.
Called my order in on a Monday for Tuesday afternoon pick up. Purchased 2 Puerto Rican Lunch Plates that included a pastele, gandule rice, bacalao salad, empanadilla, portuguese sausage and a spiced cake for dessert. Each plate was $15 plus tax. Total came to $31.25 (cash only) Eating this plate was like eating a home cooked meal. Nothing outside of the norm, but just a solid, well flavored and balanced plate of deliciousness. You can tell these are tried and true recipes. Will be back when we're in the mood for authentic Puerto Rican food. Hopefully they will expand to more days of the week for pick up.
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August 2021 by Amy Booth
This food was so good, and the man working was very friendly! You have to order by phone ahead of time, you can’t go inside. The lunch plate was a good amount of food, I shared it with my partner and it was perfect. Definitely recommend!
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May 2021 by Troyden Tomooka
Great Food!!!!
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January 2021 by Rosa P.
So this place you have to order and pick it up. But when I tell you it taste just like mama makes it, IT IS! Absolutely Love this place!
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October 2020 by Brenda Fernandez
Best Rican food on the island! Introducing my friends to your food tomorrow... can’t wait! You gotta try it. It’s delicious ?
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September 2020 by Joyce Nobriga
There pateles are the best.
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September 2020 by Stephanie C.
I love Mama Dings, but YELP needs to update their hours. Wanted to order some Puerto Rican food today but was told they only open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Can someone please update their hours? Thank you.
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September 2020 by Aloha Isidro
The good stuff! Call in advance and take out only, but worth it!
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September 2020 by Alejandro M.
This place is amazing. As a Puerto Rican living in Maui, I can truly say this is as authentic as it gets. Every bite reminded me of my grandmas food from Puerto Rico. It is a true taste of home. The gandule rice and the pastele were my favorite! Upon arriving the owner was very friendly and we had a good conversation. I will definitely be returning for more. Gracias para la comida Tio!
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August 2020 by Leland Feleciano
Every time I visit Maui, this is one of the first places I run to. The pasteles are wonderful. I usually buy 1 or 2 dozen and eat them every day until I leave.
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May 2020 by Vince N.
Mama Ding's has been around for a very, very long time. Mention the name and some will exclaim "They're still open?!" And while I have yet to step foot inside, I got a chance to try something from a co-worker's takeout that I'm definitely going back for! MENU: Puerto Rican Plate Lunch (pastele, gandule rice, bacalao salad, empanadillas, Portuguese sausage & dessert), or broken down into ala carte, box and pan-sized options. FOOD: Empanadillas I absolutely love meat turnovers. Empanadas, empanadillas... What's the difference between the two? Nothing really, except for the fact that in Puerto Rico, empanadas are referred to as breaded steak or chicken and empanadillas are meat turnovers. Other areas of Spanish-speaking folk call meat turnovers, empanadas. Whatever. All you need to know is that if you like either name, you're going to absolutely LOVE these. It is a well-known fact to friends that I don't care for pastele anything due to its odd and weak flavor. I've had a version from another Maui establishment as a stew and didn't care for it. So when I was offered a pastele-filled empanadilla, I grimaced at the opportunity but was all smiles and moans after devouring it! The warm dough was thick like a pie crust and insanely soft, flaky and buttery. Once you get past that delicious shell, the pastele filling bursts your tastebuds with mouth-watering, savory, tomatoey flavors that takes these bad boys over the edge! OMG. One was definitely not enough. TIP: They're a takeout only biz with odd hours and ordering procedures. Definitely call ahead. OVERALL: They're right up there with the best empanadas we had in Buenos Aires, Argentina!
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March 2020 by Adeline N.
Totally worth the "phone order only," $12 plate lunch, cash only from this mom 'n pop diner in Kahului. Take out is best or you can get a quick bite, like sitting in Aunty's dining room with tv and all.
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December 2019 by Marcella Figueroa
Love my Puerto Rican food
