After factoring in the happy-hour deals, my kamaʻāina (Hawaii resident) discount, and the 15% I got off the price of adult shave ice, my total was $63.88, including tax and tip.
This price point is pretty standard for Maui, and I knew I was also paying for the location, ambiance, live entertainment, and locally sourced fish.
Additionally, since the portions were big, I was able to stretch my order into two additional meals. I had the ahi poke as a late-night snack and saved the grilled cheese for lunch the next day.
I will certainly return to Down the Hatch, though it will more likely be on a night out, as it's a popular watering hole for locals.
That said, I have yet to try the breakfast menu. With $12 carafes of mimosas and bloody marys alongside dishes like seared ahi Benedict and mango-bread-pudding French toast, it's calling my name.
It's hard to say whether Down the Hatch is the best restaurant in Hawaii, as "best" is pretty subjective.
But if you're seeking a casual setting with good food and drinks at relatively reasonable prices, Down the Hatch definitely delivers — as long as you're willing to wait in line.