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You can’t be blamed if you arrive on Kauai and find yourself frozen in a state of complete bliss. To call the island beautiful is something of an understatement — and it’s an even bigger understatement to say that there’s a whole lot to see and do.
Even if you don’t have enough time to experience everything this stunning part of Hawaii offers, there’s one inarguable fact: You’ll need to eat to experience it to the fullest. Trust me, you’ll have no problem eating your way through the island once you discover exactly what the Kauai culinary scene has to offer.
Here’s where you’ll find an absolute gold mine of delicious options that are sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Whether you love a regional delicacy or want to experience five-star dining island-style, you won’t leave Hawaii disappointed. There’s something about eating in the varied tropical areas of Kauai along the Na Pali coast that are positively enchanting — it’s something you actually have to experience to believe.
This handy guide can help you narrow down your choices. Whether you’re craving something traditionally Hawaiian like poke, loco moco, lomi lomi, or kalua pig or you’re ready to fulfill that fantasy of dining oceanside in the company of your special someone. You might also just be looking for the ultimate family-friendly spot to dine with the kids.
Whatever is on your menu, you can be sure you will find a suitable option at one of these wonderful stops on Kauai.
Where To Eat On Kauai
So, where exactly are the best restaurants on Kauai? There are many — dozens, to be precise, and it really depends on your preferred cuisine and whether you have a taste for adventure on any given day.
If you’re feeling spontaneous, for example, you might find that it’s just easier to wander around Kapaa (the largest town on the island). But, if you have a particular affinity for something the locals love or your sweet tooth is begging for attention, you need to know which eatery to go to.
What’s the secret to all of that deliciousness? It all comes back to one key factor: quality. Proximity to the best farms and pristine resources makes Kauai an eaters dream. Dishes are made with the freshest ingredients, and they are as aesthetically pleasing as they are tasty.
You’ll be served nothing but the most mouth-watering preparations when you visit Kauai. You’ll experience the difference in the way vivid colors bring everything on your plate to life — and exquisite fragrances usually aren’t far behind.
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler
- 2100 Hoone Road, Poipu Beach, Koloa
- (808) 742-7588
- https://www.brenneckes.com/
- $$
Kauai features many beachfront dining options. For a fantastic beachfront dining experience, make your way to Brennecke’s Beach Broiler. Located on Poipu Beach, adjacent to Brennecke Beach on the South Shore, the establishment offers a smorgasbord of fresh seafood dishes.
You’ll find area favorites like fresh ahi poke, seared ahi, tempura rolls, clam chowder, seafood risotto, and rib eye surf n turf. A signature Mai Tai can round out a great meal here. There are even vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.
Hukilau Lanai
- 520 Aleka Loop, Kapaa
- (808) 822-0600
- https://hukilaukauai.com/
- $$$
Hukilau Lanai is a chic spot offering a hearty menu of locally sourced fare. The restaurant proudly supports local fishermen and farmers, and they’ve adopted several eco-friendly initiatives in their effort to do right by the planet.
For example, they have an on-site herb garden manned by the staff, recycle vegetable oil, use non-plastic receptacles for takeout orders, and rely on energy-efficient lighting. On top of all of this, their diverse menu has everything from sweet potato ravioli and BBQ ribs to lobster curry bisque and mushroom meatloaf.
Duke’s Kauai
- 3610 Rice St., Lihue
- (808) 246-9599
- https://www.dukeskauai.com/
- $$$
Offering exquisite views of Nawiliwili Bay with the Hoary Head Mountains in the distance, Duke’s Kauai was named for legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. The lively beachfront restaurant is a masterclass in Hawaiian-style dining.
Enjoy casual fare, like loaded nachos and classic Caesar salads, at the bar. Stop by for Sunday brunch (with live music!) and dig into all of the favorites, like scrambled eggs with cheese and fresh Hawaii grown coffee. Enjoy delectable favorites for dinner, like fresh fish and Kalua pork. Finish with some mouth-watering macadamia nut ice cream for dessert.
Paco’s Tacos
- 1292 Kuhio Hwy #4, Kapaa
- (808) 822-9944
- https://pacostacoskauai.com/
- $
If you’re craving Mexican food, head straight for Paco’s Tacos. Located in the Pono shopping center, this humble, family-run eatery has everything you could possibly desire to satisfy your appetite.
Got burritos, tacos, enchiladas, carnitas, fajitas, or taquitos on the brain?
Good news: You can get all of them here — and with most items on the menu relatively inexpensive, you could conceivably pick up an order for now and one to enjoy later if you desired.
Bull Shed Restaurant
- 4796 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 822-3791
- https://www.bullshedrestaurant.com/
- $$$
For the ultimate fine dining experience in a beach lodge setting, you’ll want to stop by Bull Shed Restaurant. The classy steakhouse is among the area’s most beloved eateries, serving loyalists for more than 40 years. Located oceanfront just off of the scenic Kuhio Highway, this spot is a great stop on your way back from a day of waterfall adventures.
Situated on the Coconut Coast, the oceanfront restaurant serves up hearty steak, poultry, baby back ribs, rack of lamb, grilled shrimp, lobster tail, and so much more.
Porky’s Kauai
- 9899 Waimea Rd., Waimea
- (808) 631-3071
- https://www.porkyskauai.com/
- $
Affectionately dubbed “aloha in a bun,” Porky’s Kauai is a famed food cart that people from both the east and west sides of the island visit.
Since 2013, locals and tourists alike have flocked to this casual spot offering equally casual but highly memorable fare. Where else in town can you pick up a pineapple sausage or a grilled cheese sandwich packed with Hawaiian-style pulled pork? There are also rice bowls loaded with all the fixings.
Shivalik Indian Cuisine
- 4771 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 821-2333
- http://www.shivalikindiancuisines.com/
- $$
When you have had your fill of surf and turf and want to mix up your cuisine, there is plenty of international flavors to be found on Kauai.
If you’re craving authentic Indian cuisine, look no further than Shivalik. The popular eatery offers a range of options, from traditional favorites like samosas and butter chicken to items with a more local flavor, like shrimp pakoras and fish tikka masala.
In addition to its casual restaurant, the establishment also operates a popular food cart with a limited menu at Kapa’a Beach Park.
Street Burger Kauai
- 4369 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 212-1555
- https://streetburgerkauai.com/
- $$
Located in the Shops at Wailua Kai, this gourmet bistro offers a broad menu of burgers in a sleek and streamlined environment. Its shopping center location elevates its popularity, but people would find a way to visit no matter what.
Everything on the menu is produced with locally grown ingredients. You’ll find best-sellers like fried green tomatoes, Maui Ewa onion rings, mushroom swiss burgers, the Paniolo burger starring tomato jam and fried egg, and the catch of the day on a bun — and that’s just for starters. The menu revolves regularly, so it’s worth repeat visits if you’re curious.
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co
- 5-5070 Kuhio Hwy #B, Hanalei
- (808) 826-1059
- https://hanaleitaro.com/
- $
For farm-to-table dining at its finest, look no further than this family-owned establishment. Hanalei Tao & Juice Company has been serving up Kauai’s finest eats from it’s 100 year old, six generation farm since 2000.
Their menu is full of popular traditional Hawaiian fare, from kalua pig and lomi lomi to laulau and poi. It also includes popular local dishes like including taro mochi cake, Hanalei Taro veggie burgers, and island fruit smoothies galore. All are sourced from authentic family recipes.
JO2 Natural Cuisine
- 4971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 212-1627
- http://www.jotwo.com/
- $$$
A fusion restaurant offers diners a great opportunity to experience a broad range of flavors. That’s especially true of JO2 Natural Cuisine, the popular establishment known for its airy environment and mouth-watering cuisine inspired by traditional Hawaiian recipes.
Take your pick from a broad range of flavors on the diner menu, like scallop ravioli, green bean tempura, lemongrass-crusted local marlin, Hunan-roasted lamb chops, and farro risotto, among many other items.
Kalypso Island Bar & Grill
- 5-5156 Kuhio Wy, Hanalei
- (808) 826-9700
- https://kalypsokauai.com/
- $$
Located in the Ching Young Village shopping center, this hip spot offers happy hour each day between the hours of 3 pm and 5:30 pm. Don’t miss out on some beloved favorites, like loco moco, Kalua pork sandwiches, mahi mahi tostada, and fish and chips.
This casual space is a must if your primary goal is to enjoy a cold beverage, breathe in some invigorating fresh air, and enjoy a truly local dish from Hawaii while you’re there.
Little Fish Coffee Poipu
- 2294 Poipu Rd., Koloa
- (808) 742-2113
- https://littlefishcoffee.com/
- $
What’s not to love about a charming little establishment that boasts both a cute name and a mouth-watering menu? If you love coffee, you don’t need to take a single step further than Little Fish Coffee Poipu.
Feast on a hearty and healthy acai bowl packed with locally sourced fruits and vegetables, enjoy a cup of organic, fair-trade coffee, or cool down with a refreshing smoothie.
Look for crowd-pleasers like Monkey Nuts (made with bananas, peanut butter, macadamia nuts, and chocolate) and Tree Hugger (a concoction of mango, blueberries, bananas, and agave with hemp protein).
Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant and Bar
- 4-1546 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 822-7887
- http://www.samsoceanview.com/
- $$
If it’s seafood and an open-air ambiance that you crave, you’ll find both at Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant and Bar situated in front of Kapa’a Beach Park. Specializing in mouth-watering American fare with a twist, the restaurant is bright and lively — so much so that you’re likely to forget everything about the outside world when you’re here.
Often voted one of the area’s best eateries, Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant and Bar features a menu packed with crowd-pleasing favorites. Here’s where you can dine on smoked salmon, crispy cauliflower, fish and chips, seared ahi steak, shrimp primavera, and curry vegetable quinoa bowls.
Kauai Beer Company
- 4265 Rice St., Lihue
- (808) 245-2337
- https://www.kauaibeer.com/
- $$
There’s no dearth of variety on Kauai — so you shouldn’t be surprised to stumble across this microbrewery! The Kauai Beer Company has been an area mainstay since its doors opened in 2013. They’re known for their artisan craft beer, laid-back atmosphere, and delicious companion fare.
Pair your brew of choice with a Reuben sandwich, a seared ahi steak, a teriyaki burger, an order of beer-battered fries (of course), a grilled cheese sandwich, a salad, or even a Bavarian pretzel.
Bar Acuda
- 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei
- (808) 826-7081
- https://www.cudahanalei.com/
- $$
Stop by Bar Acuda anytime for tapas and drinks — and stay for the incredible ambiance. The space caters to those who appreciate the value of truly fresh local ingredients. Every detail matters here, from the locally sourced fish to the locally grown vegetables.
It’s a matter of taste, and you’ll experience that whether you’re feasting on a cucumber salad, pan-roasted broccoli, steamed clams, or grilled lamb. Prefer a cocktail or beer? The bar has both, in addition to an extensive wine menu.
Palate Wine Bar & Restaurant
- 2474 Keneke St., Kilauea
- (808) 212-1974
- http://www.palatewinebar.net/
- $$
If you’re planning a date night with your significant other, the Palate Wine Bar & Restaurant makes a phenomenal choice. Situated in Kilauea, the stylish spot is just right when all you want are the basics — think wine and cheese, with a side of something delicious to top it off.
Try a cheese board loaded with crostini and fresh fruit, or dig into a hearty kale salad or a flatbread pizza. Don’t forget dessert! The restaurant offers apple tart, cheesecake, and chocolate mousse to cap off your meal.
Kintaro Japanese Restaurant
- 4370 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 822-3341
- https://kintaro-japanese-restaurant.hub.biz
- $$
Since its opening in 1984, Kintaro Japanese Restaurant has routinely earned high praise for its consistent and authentic Asian fare.
There’s no denying that the Japanese eatery is widely regarded as one of the best places to visit for sushi. Their dishes are unique, catering to tastes that range from the traditional to the eclectic. The space itself is warm and understated, with a minimalist vibe that is so authentic, you may feel like you’re in Asia itself.
Taps & Hops Eatery
- 4885 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 378-4199
- https://www.instagram.com/tapsandhops
- $$
With its slightly utilitarian vibe, Taps & Hops Eatery exudes a sense of no-fuss, no-frills modernity. The space is just right to stop by and grab a drink with friends, but just as suitable for date night or dinner with your family.
Feast on pupu like cold tofu, pork sliders, shrimp bruschetta, Loco Moco fries, and so much more. Or, if your appetite needs a little more, order one of the restaurant’s famed Big Plates. From kimchi fried rice to garlic shrimp, they have it all.
The Bistro
- 2484 Keneke St., Kilauea
- (808) 828-0480
- http://www.thebistrohawaii.com
- $$
You’ll dig the combination of casual surroundings and live music at The Bistro. The aptly named spot feels instantly warm and homey, and whether you come in for a full meal or some light appetizers at the bar, odds are you’ll begin planning your next visit while you’re already there.
Choose from options like chili pepper chicken, prosciutto and goat, beer bratwurst, bistro burger, beet salad, and so much more to please any palate.
JoJo’s Shave Ice
- 9734 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea
- (808) 478-4712
- https://jojosshaveice.com/
- $
Since 1952, JoJo’s Shave Ice has served as a constant source of delight for visitors to Maui. They stand out for one very specific reason: all of their syrups are made with pure cane sugar, unlike commercial syrups.
The team at the establishment also creates a range of their own creamy toppings, like vanilla and coconut flavors, whipped together with ice cream and condensed milk. The lilikoi flavored shaved ice is also a crowd favorite. Best of all, all of the profits made at JoJo’s Shave Ice fund free children’s camps on the island.
Da Crack Mexican Grinds
- 2827 Poipu Rd., Koloa
- (808) 742-9505
- https://www.dacrackkauai.com/
- $
Widely considered one of the best and most economical places to satiate a raging appetite, Da Crack Mexican Grinds has you covered when it’s a cheap pork burrito or a hearty veggie bowl that has your attention.
There’s also a notable kid’s and appetizers menu. You can grab chips and salsa or chips and guacamole (or both!) as a side for just a few dollars. Your meal is prepared fresh and in-house, with only locally sourced fish and sea salt.
Java Kai
- 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
- (808) 823-6887
- https://javakai.com/
- $$
For a fresh and mouth-watering breakfast any morning of the week, make your way to Java Kai. It’s often touted as the “best breakfast” on Kauai, and with good reason. You can dig into everything here, from an acai bowl with all the fixings to a hearty cup of coffee (of course).
The Sunrise Brekkie (with papaya, granola, vanilla yogurt, and fresh fruit) is not to be missed. Others swear by the Surfer Sandwich, which is loaded with scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese and finished with pesto aioli.
They’ve also got some pretty cool merchandise that you can take home with you as a souvenir.
The Spot North Shore Kauai
- Princeville Shopping Center
- 5-4280 Kuhio Hwy Suite C-103, Princeville
- (808) 320-7605
- https://www.thespotkauai.com
- $$
It’s for good reason that so many health-conscious folks find themselves at The Spot North Shore Kauai. It’s among the area’s most appealing locations for a freshly made, lighter meal — and you are very likely to encounter a line first thing in the morning if you’re there for breakfast.
Wait a little while, and you can even enjoy a delicious lunch while you’re at it.
They are known for their “signature spot bowls,” which consist of a variety of ingredients — that are always fresh. The Maca Macnut is a local favorite featuring a medley of tropical fruits and superfood seeds and finished with macadamia nut butter.
Island Fish Taco
- 9643 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea
- (808) 338-9895
- https://www.islandfishtaco.com/
- $$
Tasty, affordable, and well worth a daily visit if you’ve got Mexican food on the brain, Island Fish Taco keeps you satisfied with every bite. Not only do they produce their tortillas on site (and hand-crafted does make all the difference!), but they also fill them with all manner of creative fillings — think wasabi seared Hawaiian tuna, blackened mahi mahi, cilantro lime tofu, and sweet chili sauce.
They dream up new flavors every day of the week, so you never know what you’ll discover when you arrive.
Endless Eating Variety In Kauai
There’s no question that there is an enormous variety of Kauai restaurants. Some are on the beach. Others offer exquisite oceanfront views. Some specialize in light bites, while others bring you rich and flavorful entrees like you’ve never known.
Look around, and you can find it all, from Mexican to Italian, from dive bars to steakhouses, from meaty to gluten-free. It may not rival the Big Island in size, but you’ll be wowed by what you can discover here in addition to traditional luaus and fish markets. All it takes is a little insider’s know-how!
Finding a place to stay near your eating destination is easy with a wealth of choice for vacation rental homes.
Featured Image Credit: EQRoy
