Let’s begin by establishing my credibility as an amateur food critic. Firstly, I like to eat food. The argument could end there, but I can tell you are not entirely convinced of my skills. Secondly, I would never recommend a place I haven’t eaten at. How can anyone properly judge food they have not eaten? Thirdly, I am cheap. We don’t eat at fancy restaurants when we travel. In fact, I am not sure they would even let us in. We travel on a budget and maximize every dollar spent to get the most out our trip, this includes where we eat. With all that out on the table, you can trust these recommendations. Here are the best places for food in Kauai.
Lava Lava Beach Club
After a long flight, you’ll want an ice cold alcoholic beverage and some island food. You also probably want to hit the beach and ocean right away. That’s why you came to Hawaii right? The Lava Lava Beach club in Wailua gives you the best of both. The tables are situated outside in the sand on Lae Nani Beach. Enjoy a refreshing beer and chow down on the days fish special right at the ocean’s edge. Welcome to Paradise.
Sleeping Giant Grill
Are you ready for the best fish tacos on Kauai? Of course, you are. Head over to the Sleeping Giant Grill in Kapaa. There is nothing fancy about the food here, it is just straight delicious. The serving sizes here are also to be commended. If you are starving go for the chicken burrito. It is the most bang for your buck and your belly will thank you.
(No online menu)
Kintaro Japanese Restaurant
The most popular cuisine in Kauai is obviously seafood. You’re on an island surrounded by water containing more varieties of sea creatures than there are vowels in a Hawaiian dictionary. Now let’s do some critical thinking. What type of food benefits the most from fresh fish? If you guessed sushi, you’d get a gold star and a pat on the back. For the best sushi in Kaui visit Kintaro in Kapaa. This place can get a little busy but you know you are in the right restaurant if the place is packed with locals. If you aren’t accustomed to sushi but want to branch out a little, try the Hanalei Roll. It’s deep fried so you know its good.
(No online menu)
Kauai Beer Company
It can sometimes be difficult to find a place that has both good beer and good food. The Kauai Beer company does not have this problem. Located in Lihue, the neighborhood microbrewery opened in 2013. And while the beer may take center stage, especially the Lihue Lager, the food will leave a lasting impression. The Ponzu Pork Sandwich and the Brew House Mac N’ Cheese are high on our list for the best meals found in Kauai. This is a great spot for lunch after ATVing on Kipu Ranch.
Puka Dog
There will be some controversy on this one. Puka Dog seems to be a love/hate among visitors to Kauai. Some embrace it as a revolutionary transformation of your typical polish sausage, others view it as a simple hotdog gimmick. In my opinion, the Puka Dog is genius. A polish sausage placed in a hollowed-out Hawaiian sweet bun (which is toasted on the inside) complete with garlic lemon secret sauce and a fruit relish. The condiments may scare if you’re used to just ketchup and mustard on your dog, but you need to embrace the fear and trust the process. The sweetness of the bun and the relishes pair excellently with the polish dog. Accompany this with their fresh squeezed lemonade and you will be a happy traveler.
Keokis Paradise
This is the closest you can get to resort dining without actually having to stay in an expensive hotel. Tropical water features and live music give Keokis Paradise an entertaining atmosphere. The food is excellent but the drinks were even better. If you’re a Mai Tai kinda person, this is your spot. Watch the sunset at Poipu Beach and then head here to finish the night in style.
Dukes
Dukes, the well-known restaurant on Kauai. Named after Hawaii’s most famous surfer, actor, and athlete, Duke’s sits adjacent to Kalapaki Beach offering an amazing view and food that would make the Father of Surfing proud. While not the most affordable place on this list, it’s worth saving some of the budget to eat here. Trust your waiter and get whatever the special is that day. It usually involves a type of fish you have never heard of but you’re going to love it.
No matter which way you slice it, Hawaii is an expensive place to eat. The important thing is to make sure you are getting the best value for your dollar. Eat at these local places and you are guaranteed great food and a fun experience.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.
