Hawaii

A guide to eating in Hawaii

The Best Restaurants & Must-Try Spots in Maui and Kauai (Plus where to stay)

Hawaii is one of those places where what you eat is shaped by the land, ocean, people and the pace of life. Nowhere is that more obvious than on Maui and Kauai.

We are fortunate to have spent the most time on these two islands. We love to visit family in Maui and have celebrated some of our biggest milestones on these two islands; our wedding (see our NYT mini vows article here) and babymoon.

Over multiple trips, we’ve eaten our way through beachside food trucks, celebratory fine dining, all the poke counters and unforgettable local gems.

This guide isn’t so much about checking off every “must-eat” in Hawaii, instead it’s about where we return to, dream about and recommend to friends without hesitation.

Maui and Kauai each have distinct food scenes and personalities and knowing the vibe of each island helps set expectations for how (and where) you’ll want to eat. I hope this post helps guide you to the best eats!

🏄🏻‍♀️ The Maui Guide

🐓 The Kauai Guide

How to use this guide

This guide is meant to help you if you’re starting to plan a trip to Maui or Kauai and are;

• Still deciding where to stay on the islands

• Hoping to eat really well!

Because Maui and Kauai are both spread out, this guide is organized by island and area so you can quickly find great food near where you’re staying, or decide where to stay based on how you like to eat (which is frequently what I do).

Maui: Where to Stay & Eat (Area-Based)

Maui is where you go when you want options; laid back lunches, elevated dinners and food that feels vacation-worthy. You’ll find everything from poke counters to high end experiences with top notch local chefs leading the scene. Maui’s vibe can best be described as having a strong farm to table presence and;

• Excellent, fresh seafood and thoughtful Hawaiian-inspired fine dining

• Tons of poke counters, fresh fish and casual lunches for beach days

• More “special occasion” and celebratory restaurants in addition to approachable local favorites

Favorite Bites in Maui

West Maui: Lahaina, Kāʻanapali & Kapalua

Best for: First-time visitors, families, convenience seekers
Hotel scene: Large resorts, vacation rentals
Food density: High

Lahaina (and nearby Kāʻanapali and Kapalua) have historically been one of Maui’s busiest areas for both hotels and dining. It’s lively, walkable in parts, and packed with restaurants ranging from casual beach bars to well-known island staples.

This area offers the most variety in one place, which makes it convenient but also more crowded and tourist-heavy.

Important Note: In August 2023, devastating wildfires destroyed much of historic Lahaina. Homes, landmarks and local business were impacted and over 100 lives were lost. The effects are still impacting Lahaina and the surrounding community. As Maui recovers, tourism remains crucial in rebuilding. To support the area in a meaningful way:

• Visit and spend locally: prioritize eating and shopping at independent businesses and explore local establishments that directly help families and small businesses.

• Be respectful: understand that locals are still recovering. Listen, learn and be courteous to the people and the land.

• Donate if you can: consider supporting the Maui Strong Fund or local nonprofits (like the Maui Food Bank) that provide aid to residents and businesses.

What to expect food-wise:

• Wide range of cuisines and price points

• Easy access to casual meals and family-friendly spots

• Some gems mixed in with more touristy options

Must Eats & Drinks:

• Star Noodle - An absolute Lahaina classic for a reason. You’ll find delicious shared plates, noodle dishes and fun cocktails amidst a lively atmosphere and hospitable service. Be sure to try the local saimin and garlic noodles.

• Tamura’s Wine & Liquor - Part liquor store, part poke paradise, Tamura’s is legendary. I still dream of the poke from this unassuming liquor store. It’s a must-stop for the best poke around. The fun part is the wide variety of different types of poke that will suit your every mood from classic tuna to tako and spicy salmon.

• Honu Oceanside - Oceanfront dining done right. Honu is beloved for its relaxed elegance, consistently excellent seafood, and front-row seats to Lahaina sunsets.

• Merriman’s Kapalua - Farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine at its absolute best with an iconic view. Merriman’s pairs locally sourced ingredients with one of the most stunning sunset views on the island, it’s the place to celebrate a milestone. I definitely recommend booking ahead as it’s a fan favorite.

• Burger Shack at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua - Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for the serene luxury and elevated dining options plus burgers and a milkshake at the Burger Shack! The setting is peaceful, refined and splurge-worthy. Although, we may be partial to the Ritz since we got married here!

• The Fish Market Maui - Casual, unfussy, and incredibly satisfying. This is the place for fresh fish plates and easy takeout that proves great Maui food doesn’t need a white tablecloth.

• Takumi - Get your omakase and sushi fix here. An artisan sushi restaurant offering a la carte dining, takeout and omakase dinner on Tuesday-Saturday evenings. It is recommended to book early!

Kahului & Wailuku: Local Life, Everyday Eats and Underrated Gems

Best for: Arrival & departure days (closest areas to the airport, low-key exploring
Hotel scene: Limited, think budget hotels, small inns and some vacation rentals
Food density: High for casual dining, moderate for sit down spots

Kahului and Wailuku sit side by side and function as Maui’s local, everyday core. Kahului is the island’s commercial and transportation hub, home to the airport (OGG), big-box stores (like Costco), and some of the best no-frills food on the island.

Just minutes away, Wailuku offers a slower, more historic feel with a growing arts scene and a handful of thoughtful, locally owned restaurants. Note that there’s minimal nightlife options but strong daytime and early evening dining.

This is not resort Maui and that’s exactly the appeal. Food here is less about ocean views and more about flavor and consistency. These are places locals actually return to again and again.

What to expect food-wise:

• Excellent local favorites and plate lunch spots

• Great bakeries, coffee shops, and casual takeout

• A mix of quick eats (Kahului) and sit-down, chef-driven spots (Wailuku)

Good to know:

• Not very walkable, having a car helps (a general tip for Maui unless you are not planning to leave your resort or hotel)

• An ideal stop before heading to Upcountry or the Road to Hana

Must Eats & Drinks:

• Tin Roof - One of Maui’s most iconic casual eats by the Sheldon Simeon. Tin Roof delivers Hawaiian classics like mochiko chicken, garlic shrimp and poke. It also serves up additional dishes like fish sandos, fat chow funn and saimin or dry mein. A must visit!

• Tiffany’s Restaurant & Bar - A longtime local favorite that blends classic comfort foods like loco moco and katsu with island flair. Tiffany’s is reliable, welcoming, and the kind of place that feels like a true neighborhood staple.

• Kaohu Store - This tiny local shop is beloved for simple, satisfying plates and many’s favorite poke. Don’t skip out on the pohole salad, a native vegetable to Hawaii. Pohole ferns are similar to okra and are typically tossed with tomatoes and onions.

• Esters - Esters is a go-to for tropical craft cocktails, happy hour and farm to table inspired pupus (small plates). You can get classic cocktails like daiquiris and mai tai’s or something more exotic like the Clarified Milk Punch or the Velvet Elvis featuring tequila, mezcal, calamansi, rosalio and aperol.

• Faithful Grinds - Faithful Grinds has an extensive breakfast and lunch menu featuring breakfast classics and Hawaiian lunch plates. Come hungry as their portions are large and hearty!

• Kalei’s Lunch Box - An unassuming, affordable meal out of one of Maui’s favorite food trucks. Kalei’s is a classic lunch stop known for generous portions and comforting local-style plates like loco moco, chicken katsu, saimin and teriyaki chicken.

• Sam Sato’s - An institution since 1933. Sam Sato’s is famous for its dry mein and old-school charm, one of those places that hasn’t changed much, and that’s exactly why it’s special.

• Costco - It may sound surprising, but Costco in Kahului is a Maui rite of passage. Come for the cheap eats, stock up on local snacks, and appreciate the most practical food stop on the island (especially if you’re staying at a vacation rental).

Paia: Artsy, Creative and the Perfect day trip

Best for: Food lovers, surfers, day-trippers
Hotel scene: Limited (mostly small inns and rentals)
Food density: High for its size

Paia is small but mighty. This North Shore town has one of the strongest food scenes per square mile on Maui, with a laid-back, artsy vibe and restaurants that punch well above their weight.

Most people don’t stay in Paia but almost everyone ends up eating or exploring there at least once.

What to expect food-wise:

• Creative, globally inspired menus

• Strong casual and mid-range dining

• Great coffee, bakeries, and lunch spots

Must Eats & Drinks:

• Mama’s Fish House - An iconic Maui experience and worth the hype. Mama’s is all about impeccably fresh seafood, flawless service, and a setting that feels quintessentially Hawaiian. The local seafood is caught fresh everyday and the menu notes who and where it was caught. The biggest tip is to book ahead in advance, reservations are hard to come by.

• Belle Surf Cafe & Lounge - The most IG worthy vibes, visit Belle Cafe for handcrafted coffees, locally sourced ingredients all pulled together in a globally inspired menu. The perfect place to grab a bagel or crepes paired with matcha, smoothie bowls or a craft cocktail.

• Cafe De Ami - A charming, casual favorite with serious flavor combinations from France, India and the Mediterranean. Cafe De Ami is a great stop for happy hour where you can indulge in Indian curries, salads, wraps and a perfectly paired glass of wine.

• Lima Cocina + Cantina - Lima combines bold Peruvian flavors with a Maui twist to create an amazingly fresh ceviche and a great happy hour menu. Perfectly paired with their famous Pisco Sour or the frozen slushy Pisco Punch.

• Tobi’s Poke & Shave Ice - A laid-back Paia classic that’s been feeding locals and visitors for decades. Tobi’s is a go-to for comfort food like poke bowls and shave ice. Tobi’s also has live music nights and an effortlessly local vibe.

• Paia Bay Coffee & Bar - More than just a coffee shop, Paia Bay Coffee & Bar has breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a ton of fun events happening nightly.

• Paia Fish Market - Casual, crowded, and completely worth it. Paia Fish Market is beloved for ultra-fresh seafood, generous portions, and some of the best value fish plates on the island.

• Story Maui -

• Mana Foods - Not a restaurant, but absolutely a Paia rite of passage. Mana Foods is local market, perfect for prepared foods, snacks, smoothies, and picnic supplies right in the heart of Paia.

Kihei & Wailea: Beach Days, Easy Eats and Destination Dining

Best for: First-timers, beach lovers, food-forward travelers
Hotel scene: Condos and vacation rentals (Kihei) + luxury resorts (Wailea)
Food density: High and varied

Kihei and Wailea sit side by side on Maui’s sunny South Shore, making them one of the easiest and most convenient areas to stay and eat. Kihei leans casual and everyday, packed with approachable local favorites and great value spots, while Wailea brings the polish—think resort dining, sunset views, and special-occasion meals. These two locations are easy to access between the two by car.

Together, they offer the best of both worlds: relaxed breakfasts and takeout-friendly lunches in Kihei, paired with memorable dinners and elevated experiences in Wailea.

What to expect food-wise:

• A wide range of price points and dining styles

• Excellent casual eats, coffee, and takeout in Kihei

• Upscale, reservation-worthy dining in Wailea

Must Eats and Drinks:

• Spoon & Key Market - A stylish, modern market that’s perfect for easy but excellent meals. Spoon & Key shines for grab-and-go breakfasts and picnic-ready lunches. The fun doesn’t stop there, Spoon & Key Market also has a prix fixe dinner offered Wednesday through Sunday evenings, influenced by French, Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese and Italian influences.

• Lineage - Modern Hawaiian and Filipino comfort food with serious personality by the one and only Sheldon Simeon. Lineage blends local flavors with creative flair, making it an easy favorite for both first-timers and repeat visitors. The dessert menu has standout items like the banana cream tart, pandan bread putting and toasted coconut panna cotta.

• Morimoto Maui - Bold flavors, sleek design, and crowd-pleasing dishes that still feel special. Morimoto Maui is a great choice for groups or anyone craving elevated Asian-inspired cuisine.

• Ka’ana Kitchen - A standout for refined Hawaiian cuisine with a strong sense of place. Kaʻana Kitchen highlights local ingredients and thoughtful technique, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed yet special dinner close to the resorts.

• Maui Brew Co - Casual, lively, and reliably fun. Maui Brewing Company is a great stop for locally brewed beer, crowd-pleasing food and an easygoing atmosphere that works for large groups, families, or a relaxed afternoon hang.

• Akami Coffee (multiple locations) - A favorite for thoughtfully crafted coffee with a modern, minimalist vibe. Akami Coffee is perfect for a signature morning drink like the Hawaiian Honeybee or classics like a latte, mocha or americano. They also serve breakfast/brunch items, sandwiches and salads.

• Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (multiple locations) - No trip to Maui is complete without Ululani’s. Their ultra-fine shave ice, house-made syrups, and perfectly balanced flavors make this the gold standard and absolutely worth the line.

• Kitoko - A hidden gem of a food truck that food lovers seek out. Kitoko blends global flavors with creative flair offering dishes like braised Maui beef, lobster, Kauai shrimp or smaller “bargain” bites like fried rice and tofu poke.

• Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman’s (multiple locations) - A lively, dependable favorite known for its legendary Mai Tai’s. Monkeypod is perfect when you want something fun and reliably good without feeling formal.

Upcountry (Makawao, Kula): Local Flavor & Farm Views

Best for: Slower pace, farm-to-table fans
Hotel scene: Minimal (B&Bs, small inns)
Food density: Low to moderate

Upcountry Maui feels like a different island entirely. Cooler temperatures, rolling hills, and a more rural vibe define this area. Dining options are fewer, but they’re thoughtful, locally driven, and worth the drive.

What to expect food-wise:

• Local institutions and longtime favorites

• Great daytime eating paired with exploring

Must Eat & Drinks:

• Ocean Vodka Farm Cafe - A scenic stop that pairs sweeping Upcountry views with fresh, farm-driven food. Ocean Vodka Farm Cafe is perfect for a relaxed lunch, craft cocktails and soaking in a quieter, more pastoral side of Maui. Reservations are recommended!

• Kula Bistro - A longtime favorite that’s family owned serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Kula Bistro doesn’t take reservations and specializes in home cooked food with an Italian influence.

• Lahaina Brewing Co (multiple locations) - A casual, crowd-pleasing stop with local beer and hearty fare. The Upcountry location offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s great for refueling after a Haleakalā or Kula adventure.

• Upcountry Sausage Company - Right next to Lahaina Brewing Co, you’ll find the Upcountry Sausage Company’s food truck. You can expect brats, Italian sausage, Cajun andouille sausage served with an assortment of mustards and sauerkrauts.

Hana: Remote, Scenic, and Very Limited (Eastern Side)

Best for: Adventurers, road trippers
Hotel scene: Extremely limited
Food density: Very low

Hana is about the journey, not the dining scene. Food options are sparse, hours can be unpredictable, and planning ahead is essential. Make sure to check where you’re eating beforehand as some place are cash only. That said, what is available often feels charmingly local and deeply connected to place.

What to expect food-wise:

• Small, simple menus

• Limited hours and choices

• More about experience than variety

Bruddah Hutts - A classic roadside stop serving hearty local style plates that hit the spot mid-drive. Bruddah Hutts is beloved for big flavors, generous portions and that unmistakable “worth pulling over” energy.

Hana Ranch - One of the few sit-down dining options in Hana and a great one. Hana Ranch focuses on local ingredients, relaxed hospitality and elevated comfort food in a beautiful, open setting.

Hana Farms - Part farm stand, part café and fully iconic. Hana Farms is a must for freshly baked goods, wood-fired pizza and snacks that feel especially rewarding after a long, winding drive.

Thai Food by Pranee - One of the most famous food stops on the road and for good reason. Expect bold, spicy Thai dishes with big portions and unforgettable flavor, perfect for a well-earned lunch break.

Huli Huli Chicken - You’ll smell it before you see it. This roadside classic serves smoky, juicy huli huli chicken cooked over open flames. Simple and satisfying! Don’t forget to grab some banana bread for dessert.

Kilo’s Kitchen - A newer food truck favorite that locals and visitors alike rave about. Kilo’s Kitchen delivers comforting, well seasoned plates like BBQ pork sammies, loco moco and chicken katsu. Enjoy outdoor seating while traveling the road to Hana.

Auntie Sandy’s Banana Bread - The gold standard of banana bread on Maui. Warm, moist, and perfectly balanced, Auntie Sandy’s is an essential Road to Hana stop and one people talk about long after the drive ends.

Kauai: Where to Stay & Eat (Area-Based)

Kauai: Laid-Back, Local, and Deeply Connected to the Land

Kauai moves slower and that’s the point. Known as the “Garden Isle,” it’s lush, wild, and less developed. The food scene reflects that grounded, no-rush energy. Meals feel casual, personal, and often tied closely to local farms and traditions.

Food vibe:

• Food trucks and local counters reign supreme

• Less fine dining, more soulful everyday eats

• Perfect for slow mornings, sunset takeout, and repeat visits

Kauai is about simplicity done really well, the kind of food that fits naturally into days spent hiking, swimming at the beach and taking in the scenery.

Tip: Choose which side of the island you want to stay on. There are fewer areas in Kauai to stay, so this guide focuses on Princeville & Hanalei (northern shore) and Poipu & Koloa (southern shore). And of course, I’ve included some of the best food trucks to try along with local faves and some elevated eats. Need help figuring out if the north or south shore are more your vibe? I’ve got you covered here.

Favorite Bites in Kauai

North Shore - Hanalei & Princeville: Lush, Romantic and Slower-Paced

Best for: Babymoons, honeymoons, nature lovers, repeat visitors
Vibe: Dreamy, green, unplugged and luxurious
Weather: Wetter, especially in winter
Food scene: Less options but still memorable

The North Shore is what you picture when imagining Kauai; dramatic mountains, misty mornings, taro fields, and brilliantly blue beaches framed by jungle. It’s breathtaking and peaceful, but also requires flexibility. Rain showers are common, restaurants keep relaxed hours, and things move on “island time.”

Food options are fewer but they’re delicious and worth the trip. Think farm-driven spots, food trucks, and casual restaurants you’ll want to return to multiple times.

Favorite Place to Stay: If you’re staying on the North Shore and are looking to splurge, I whole heartedly recommend the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. If you want a stay that feels both deeply restorative and undeniably luxurious, this hotel is truly in a league of its own.

Bonus: if you’re staying here to celebrate an engagement, wedding, anniversary, babymoon etc., you can take photographs on the property. We took maternity photos here with Ikaika Pidot and I could not recommend him more!

Highlights include:

• Beautiful and sustainable rooms and amenities

• World-class fitness offerings (next-level gym facilities and classes, wellness forward programming, movement with an ocean view)

• Delicious dining options that highlight local ingredients

• Hospitality that embodies the aloha spirit

What to expect food-wise in Kauai:

• A handful of standout restaurants rather than endless options

• Food trucks and casual counter service

• Short dining hours, plan ahead!

Good to know:

• Limited nightlife and shopping

• Driving to other parts of the island takes time (but the views are incredible)

• Unforgettable scenery makes up for the slower pace

Must Eats & Drinks:

• Wishing Well Shave Ice - A North Shore classic since 1983. Wishing Well serves ultra-refreshing shave ice with natural flavors, acai bowls, and high quality smoothies. Be sure to check out the coffee shop (listed below) just around the corner.

• Wishing Well Coffee - A cozy, welcoming coffee stop in the heart of Hanalei. Wishing Well Coffee serves locally roasted Outpost Coffee Kauai and is the perfect place to enjoy a match latte or mac nut latte.

• Hanalei Taro - A true taste of Kauai’s agricultural roots, Hanalei Taro is part of a 6 generation family farm, W.T. Haraguchi Farm. Hanalei Taro is known for its fresh taro-based dishes like taro mochi cakes, taro hummus, taro veggie burgers and taro smoothies. One of my favorite plate lunches on the island, be sure to try the laulau plate or the kalua big plate served with poi!

• Hanalei Poke - Casual, reliable, and beloved by locals and visitors alike. Hanalei Poke delivers fresh fish, generous portions, and a wide variety of toppings and sauces.

• Holey Grail Donuts - One of Kauai’s most talked-about treats and my absolute favorite bite in Kauai. Holey Grail’s hot, taro-based donuts are crispy, fluffy, and completely addictive, worth planning a stop around. Make sure to order the Original Sin, Lilikoi and Strawberry Fields donuts.

• Nourish Hanalei - A favorite for fresh, feel-good food with serious flavor. Nourish serves vibrant bowls, wraps, and smoothies that are perfect for fueling beach days and slow mornings. Be sure to use your GPS to locate Nourish which is a small farm stand location at the very very end of Hanalei Plantation Road.

• Hanalei Bread Company - A go-to for breakfast, lunch, and baked goods you’ll crave again. Hanalei Bread Company combines excellent pastries, hearty sandwiches, and a casual atmosphere that makes it an easy repeat stop.

• Wake Up Delicious - Bright, colorful, and unfussy in the best way. Wake Up Delicious is known for craveable breakfast and lunchy plates that are sure to keep you full for a long time. We absolutely loved our chicken katsu and garlic shrimp plates!

South Shore - Poipu & Koloa: Sunny, Resort Forward and Easy

Best for: First-time visitors, families, reliability seekers
Vibe: Resort-forward and relaxed
Weather: Drier and sunnier year-round
Food scene: More consistent and accessible

The South Shore is Kauai’s more family friendly area. Poipu and Koloa offer reliable sunshine, swimmable beaches, and a higher concentration of resorts, vacation rentals, and restaurants. It’s easier to plan days here as meals, beach time, and activities all flow smoothly.

The food scene isn’t as quirky or intimate as the North Shore, but it’s dependable and varied, with a mix of resort restaurants and casual local spots.

What to expect food-wise:

• More dining options overall (easier reservations and longer hours)

• Resort dining alongside casual favorites

• Great for group travel and families

Good to know:

• Less lush than the North Shore

• More developed and less “wild”

• A great base if you want minimal planning stress

Must Eats & Drinks:

• Old Town Koloa: after driving through the tree tunnel, check out Old Town Koloa. In addition to all the places you can find good eats and drinks, be sure to visit the shops and art galleries. My favorite store is Kauai Chickens because you’ll definitely want a souvenir or t-shirt with Kauai’s famous and abundant chickens. Some favorites for food and drinks:

  • Break + Feast - A newer breakfast and lunch spot with global influences serving up dishes like a Filipino inspired green egg and pork belly dish, kalbi bibimbap, loco moco (your way) and lilikoi or banana nut pancakes.

  • Koloa Fish Market - A no-frills favorite that delivers every single time. Koloa Fish Market is the go-to for ultra-fresh poke, generous plate lunches served with the classics; chicken long rice, lomi lomi, lautau or kalua pig.

  • Kauai Gourmet Nuts - The ideal edible souvenir stop. Kauai Gourmet Nuts offers locally flavored roasted nuts that make great gifts, make sure to buy some for yourself! I loved the salted toffee and coconut bliss mac nuts. Bonus, they’ll ship for you if your suitcase is too full to bring back treats.

  • Mucho Aloha Brewhouse - Local brewpub created by a Kauai local and surf industry designer, Gbo Tennberg. You’ll find house made beers, craft cocktails and Baja Mexican food favorites. The craft beers reflect the island setting with flavors like the Koloa Sugar Mill Lager, Chili Peppah Watah Lager and the Broke Da Mouth Pickle Mango Sour!

  • The Fresh Shave - Shave ice with a creative twist. The Fresh Shave stands out for its all natural and unique flavors, creamy textures and elevated (and healthier) take on a classic island treat.

  • Koloa Mill Ice Cream & Coffee - A local favorite for Roselani ice cream, dole whips, shave ice and freshly brewed kauai coffee. You can also find bakery items and small treats.

• Poipu:

  • Shrimp Station (West of Poipu)- A casual must for garlic shrimp lovers. Shrimp Station serves big portions, bold flavors and satisfying plates that feel tailor-made for post-beach hunger.

  • Classics like Merriman’s & Eating House by Roy Yamaguchi - Two Hawaiian fine-dining icons worth experiencing at least once. Both highlight local ingredients, polished service, and menus that helped define modern Hawaiian cuisine.

  • Porky’s - A beloved local spot for all things pulled pork. Porky’s has pulled pork sandwiches with a Hawaiian twist, hot dogs, grilled cheese and all the sides of a plate lunch like mac salad, rice, pickled veggies and Maui onion chips.

• Multiple Locations & Kapaa:

  • The Musubi Truck - Simple, craveable, and exactly what you want to eat while in Hawaii. There are many places to get spam musubi but The Musubi Truck was an absolute favorite of ours. You’ll find elevated musubis (think deep fried, ahi katsu, chicken katsu or kalbi musubi) along with bentos and fresh poke bowls.

  • Java Kai Coffee - One of Kauai’s most loved coffee stops and my favorite place to get an iced mac nut latte. Java Kai delivers great coffee, house-made pastries, delicious breakfast and a cool, welcoming vibe that makes it a morning ritual for many visitors. Don’t skip out on the Surfer Girl sandwich!

  • Kauai Juice Company - Fresh, vibrant and nourishing. Kauai Juice Company is perfect for smoothies and smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, bone broths and deliciously fresh healthy bites.

  • Kenji Burger - A cult favorite for a reason. Kenji Burger blends Hawaiian flavors with comfort-food appeal, serving juicy burgers (plus katsu and fish sandwiches) and crispy furikake fries that consistently hit the spot. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, there are salads and bowls to choose from too!

  • Hukilau (in Kapaa) - A longtime favorite for classic Hawaiian comfort food. Hukilau is warm, welcoming, and perfect when you want a sit-down meal that feels deeply rooted in local tradition.