So you’ve searched for Kauai rentals, got your perfect vacation home or condo reserved and are now planning the rest of your exotic vacation to the beautiful Garden Island. One thing you’ll certainly be interested in are places to eat on Kauai. Food is a staple of life and an intrinsic part of island style living. Hawaiians love to eat and find any occasion to get together and share local ‘grinds’. Whether it be at the beach, backyard or restaurant, sharing the fruits of the plentiful supply of fresh island food is a reason to gather with family and friends and share music and smiles. So to help you plan where you’ll be eating, here are some suggested Kauai restaurants.
Though as a visitor you may not be privy to such intimate family gatherings, you can experience the next best thing at one of the many luaus available to the public. Try the family-owned luau offered at Smith’s Tropical Garden, situated on the renowned Wailua River, complete with peacocks and a fern grotto on Kauai’s East side.
North Shore: Bar Acuda
This tapas and wine bar is located in Hanalei in the Hanalei Center. The ambiance has a sophistication of a big city with patrons enjoying the low lights and eclectic wine list in ’slippahs’. The menu is inspired by the pantries of Southern France, Italy, Spain and Portugal while incorporating local island ingredients for dishes that vary daily.
East Side: Kintaro’s
This popular sushi bar and Asian restaurant recently expanded its size. Even with more seating, you may find yourself waiting for a table, as there is often a line here. The Asian decor and fish tanks offer a great environment to wait in, while you share Saki or tea with friends. Dining options include the sushi bar, a table or reservations for one of the special rooms with Tatami seating. Located in Wailua.
South Shore: Roy’s Poipu Bar & Grill
Roy’s Restaurant specializes in Hawaiian Fusion cuisine which combines the finest aspect of Hawaiian, Asian and European flavors for unique dishes served in a fine dining environment. Local art is displayed on the walls of this ambient restaurant located in Poipu at the Poipu Shopping Village. A full wine list is featured as well as fresh local fish and seafood.
West Side: Hanapepe Cafe
Hanapepe Town is an experience all of its own and this restaurant is the main food establishment of the town. It features a mostly vegetarian cuisine in a laid back atmosphere where locals artists and visitors mingle. Hanapepe is known for its multitude of art galleries and the weekly celebration of Art Night every Friday night. The Hanapepe Cafe features live music every Friday night. Check out their great selection of baked goods, too.
The quietude of Kauai does not offer a lot of night life activity, though island restaurants do provide a great way to get out and enjoy the evening. There are more excellent Kauai restaurants that feature a variety of menu options. When in doubt about choosing a Kauai dining location, just ask a local.