Duke's Kalapaki

Looking to kickback for a beachside cocktail or pupus (appetizers) in a uniquely Hawaiian environment. "Duke's Kalapaki" sits astride the beautiful Kalapaki Bay and Beach. Named after legendary Hawaiian waterman, surfer, Olympic medalist, and ambassador of Aloha Duke Kahanamoku, "Duke's" is a charming and designed for visitors'. It is especially enjoyable during their Happy Hour service in the afternoons before sunset. Live music is featured most evenings on the downstairs terrace with the sunset glow on the Bay and mountains as the scenic backdrop.

At a Glance:
Price: $$/$$$
Location: Kalapaki Bay at Lihue, Kauai
Hours:  Daily 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 pm, Upstairs only 5 to 10 pm
Environment/Dcor: Open airy chic classic "Tiki bar" Hawaiian with great decorative landscaping and a central koi pond and waterfall.
*Reservations recommended upstairs/ walk-ins easy downstairs

When crossing the island of Kauai on a road trip, or when arriving or departing via the airport, you will become familiar with the quaint central city of Lihue. It is the center for shopping, and services, but lacks many options for relaxing and having a meal or cocktail. This is where knowing about Duke's Kalapaki Bay Restaurant will give you the perfect rest stop or last Hawaiian meal or drink before the flight. Their location is literally 2 miles from the airport and car rental returns, but is on this little known beach and Bay that hosts the islands Marriot. Free valet parking makes for an easy way to drop in and relax into the environment and soak up some aloha.

The staff is very local, as is the entertainment, and the environment is old Hawaii with hospitality that matches the dcor. The restaurant has a more casual downstairs "Barefoot Bar" and a more formal upstairs for dinners only. The central linking stairwell winds along a waterfall and Koi pond that make you feel like you are in a dream of your Hawaiian vacation.

The menus are a mix of Pacific Rim and Hawaiian cuisine, including seafood both cooked and sushi style. With a good look over the menu it is easy to find some affordable combinations for the whole family.

Our Staff's Picks:
Fried Calamari was super delicious. Great Mai Tai's and happy hour, Taco Tuesday Happy Hour is one of their more popular offerings.

Contacts:
Phone: 808.246.9599
Website: http://www.dukeskauai.com

Address:
3610 Rice Street
Lihue, Hawaii
96766

Directions:
From the airport take HI-route 56 south, until you come to a crossroads and stop sign. Turn left onto Rice Street. As the road goes downhill pass the Marriot entrance on the left, then look for the next left onto a small street that leads uphill to Duke's valet.