One of the perks of being on a tropical island is the overabundance of fresh fish. And where there is fresh fish, there is (or at least darn well should be) sushi! There are so many sushi places on the islands. We hope you try one of these Kauai sushi joints and love it!
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.
Feature Photo: Sushi Bushido
Dolphin Poipu
Family-owned and -operated for more than 20 years, Dolphin Poipu serves “over the top” gourmet sushi, fresh fish, steak and specialty cocktails, all with a bit of Hawaiian flare. Be sure to snag a table on the fabulous lanai if you’re there around sunset. Open daily from 5pm to 8pm.
Kenji Burger
4-788 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaʻa
(808) 826-9701
The concept here is simple — sushi and burgers. Kenji Burger’s menu is Japanese fusion, and it’s not your typical way to enjoy sushi, but it’s definitely worth a try! Sushi burritos, sushi bowls and teriyaki burgers all make for a great meal. Kenji Burger is open Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday 11am to 8:30pm and Friday and Saturday 11am to 9pm. Closed Tuesdays.
Northside Grill
5-5190 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei
(808) 320-3558
The second-floor balcony of this “downtown” Hanalei spot has great views and a sushi bar! The separate sushi menu fetures maki rolls, specialty rolls, nigiri, and sake — all the things you need for a tasty sushi meal. Northside Grill is open Wednesday through Sunday 4pm to 8:30pm. Sushi service begins at 5pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Sushi Bushido
4-484 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaʻa
(808) 822-0664
Chef Victor Heresa Jr. was born and raised on Kauai, and his Sushi Bushido is not your average sushi bar. Heresa has blended contemporary, new wave and traditional sushi style to create a distinctive menu that both locals and visitors love. Nigiri and sashimi combos are always a good way to go, but don’t miss the house specialties like the Golden Roll, the Butter Me Up and the Full Moon rolls. The menu also features teriyaki and tempura dishes. Open Monday to Saturday 4pm to 9pm. Closed Sunday.
Sushi Girl Kauai
2484 Keneke St., Kilauea
(808) 320-8646
Sushi Girl is the place you’re looking for if you’d like made to order sushi to go. It’s a delicious and creative menu with friendly service & daily specials. There’s the maki rolls, poke bowls and sushi burritos. The Sushi Beach Roll will hit the spot with cooked salmon. green onions and topped with macadamia nuts. Yes, please! Open Monday 4pm to 8pm and Tuesday through Sunday 11am to 3pm and 4pm to 8pm.
Stevenson’s Library
Stevenson’s is committed to using only sustainably caught fish. They offer artistic sushi rolls, sashimi, and miso soup, and also have must-try dishes like sushi pizza and hamachi blossoms. Enjoy the view from the 24-foot koa wood bar or the lanai. Bonus — the keiki menu has tasty selections. Open 5:30pm to 10pm.
Did we miss your favorite restaurant?
Our always-hungry team of foodies have compiled this list.
Please let us know if we’ve missed your favorite eat@localgetaways.com.
