You’re in vacation mode, so why not adopt the ingenious custom of the South American-style lunch? It’s simple — make lunch the largest meal of the day, have it be extra delicious, and, yes, have that second glass of wine, because you’re going to enjoy a nice long siesta afterwards. Here’s our list of the best places to lunch while on Kauai.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @HawaiiIslander on Instagram to share the love.
For more suggestions on best restaurants in Kauai, the best things to do in Kauai, and the best places to stay in Kauai, click here.
Feature Photo: Keoki's Paradise Facebook
Hanalei Bread Company
The Old Hanalei Schoolhouse, 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy., Space 5, Hanalei
808.826.6717
Located in the heart of Hanalei, this locally-owned and -operated restaurant is an organic bakery and coffee house. There’s a delicious selection of housemade toasts with decadent toppings like the Olive Toast or their Fancy Toast. Their menu has a variety of items including a grilled cheese panini and a daily special, all for you to enjoy in their lanai. Hanalei Bread Company is open daily 7am to 12:30pm.
Kalaheo Cafe
Located in the lush upcountry of Kauai, Kalaheo Cafe is a beautiful place to enjoy lunch. The food is hearty and the service is friendly. The menu has all one needs for a satisfying mid day meal. It’ll be hard to choose with menu sections like Fresh From the Garden, The Cafe Burger Bar, and From the Grill. During Covid times, open Thursday to Saturday for breakfast from 7am to 2pm and for dinner from 5pm to 8pm. Sunday through Tuesday they are open from 7am to 2pm. kalaheo.com
Kalypso
5-5156 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei
808.826.9700
This Hawaiian-themed pub has a bamboo bar and outdoor patio. The local dishes include favorites like huli huli chicken, kalua pork sandwich and their legendary loco moco. Kalypso is open Monday and Wednesday 2:30pm to 8:30pm, Thursday and Friday 11am to 8:30pm, Saturday from 10am to 8:30pm and Sunday from 8am to 8pm. Closed Tuesdays.
Keoki's Paradise
5-5156 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei
808.742.7534
Located on the south shore of Kauai, Keoki’s offers tasty Hawaiian fare in a tropical setting, with live hula almost every night. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the fresh fish varies according to season, and can be prepared kalo crusted, baked in garlic, or miso glazed, just to name a few of the ono choices. There are also veggie, gluten-free, and local meats options. Open Monday through Friday 11am to 10pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 10pm.
Little Fish Coffee
5-5156 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei
808.826.9700
If you’re looking for flavorful dishes, Little Fish Coffee is the place to stop for lunch. The menu is a delightful spread of acai bowls, bagels, sandwiches, smoothies and coffee. The fruits and veggies are locally grown, and the coffee is the fair-trade organic kind. The Club-zilla Sandwich pairs nicely with the Angry Dragon smoothie! Little Fish is open daily 7:30 am to 1pm, and is grateful for your business.
Porky’s Kauai
9899 Waimea Rd., Waimea
808.631.3071
Aloha in a bun! Porky’s gives a Hawaiian twist to classic American favorites. Sausage dogs, grilled cheese and rice bowls are their specialties. Enjoy the BBQ with a great view! During Covid times, Porky’s is open Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. porkyskauai.com
The Bistro
2484 Keneke St., Kilauea
808.828.0480
Since 1999, The Bistro has been serving fresh European and Pacific Rim fusion cuisine made from local ingredients. The open-air, plantation-style restaurant has a goal of keeping a low environmental impact, in addition to cooking up tasty food. There are plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Open daily from 3pm to 8:30pm with happy hour daily from 3pm to 6pm.
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