Need to fuel up before a long day of exploring the beauty of the Garden Isle? After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Here are our favorite breakfast spots 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 @LocalGetaways 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: @JavaKai on Facebook
Breakfast on Kauai's North Shore
Princeville - Hanalei - Kilauea
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy. #4, Hanalei
808.826.6717
Located in the heart of Hanalei, this organic bakery and coffeehouse is locally owned and operated. There’s a scrumptious selection of breakfast toasts, bowls and smoothies. Breakfast is served all day to enjoy on the lanai. Hanalei Bread Co is open daily 7am to 12:30pm.
2484 Keneke St., Kilauea
808.828.2020
If you’re craving something sweet and savory, this popular bakery is your best bet for breakfast. Kilauea’s breads and buns are freshly baked. Have a hot cup of joe and the breakfast stromboli before your morning nap on the beach. Open daily 6am to 8pm.
5-5080 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei
808.639.7828
A Hanalei favorite for traditional shave ice since 1983, Wishing Well has since expanded its menu, making it a match for any craving. Stop by for a morning coffee as early as 6:30am, or sit down at a picnic table beneath hand-painted signs for a freshly-made acai bowl or smoothie that tastes even better than it looks. And it’s never too early for shave ice! Wishing Well is also committed to sustainability, serving up delicious organic, seasonal options all without single-use plastics. Open 6:30am to 5pm daily.
5520 Ka Haku Road, Princeville
808.977.1155
At 1 Kitchen, indulge in a hyper-local, sustainable menu sourced from Kauai’s land and waters. With a focus on seasonality and ethical sourcing, Executive Chef Mel Fogat aims to honor Kauai farming and fishing. Found within the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, 1 Kitchen offers a stunning view of mountains and the bay itself as you dine. Order a la carte or choose their signature breakfast buffet for a balance of sweet and savory options, Hanalei Coffee Roasters coffee, and a choice of fresh juice. Open for breakfast 7am to 11am.
Breakfast in Central Kauai
Lihue - Kapa'a - Hokuala
2-2560 Kaumualii Hwy., Kalaheo
808.332.5858
Kalaheo Cafe is a beautiful place to start your day, as it’s located in the lush upcountry of Kauai. The hearty breakfast menu includes their signature “Upcountry Breakfast” and “Bagel Benny,” plus there are bloody Marys. Open Wednesday to Saturday for breakfast 7am to 2pm and for dinner 5pm to 8pm. Open Sunday 7am to 2pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
4-1485 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa
808.822.3511
Looking for an American classic with an island twist? Kountry Kitchen, located in the heart of Kapaʻa, has been serving up hearty plates in a cozy atmosphere since 1975. Check out their full coffee and espresso menu featuring locally-roasted Kauai Roastery Coffee, then dig in to favorites like the Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict and the Carmelized Pineapple French Toast. The Macadamia Nut Pancakes are plate-sized and topped with coconut syrup. We suggest you get there early to beat the crowds! Open 7am to 1pm, Thursday through Monday.
4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa
808.823.6887
You can’t miss Java Kai as you walk down the streets of Kapaʻa — not only for its bright turquoise exterior, but for the delicious smell of in-house roasted coffee and freshly-baked pastries. Start your day with a classic cup, or opt for blended drinks and smoothies, all perfectly paired with breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, and more unique options like Chai French Toast. In a hurry? Swing by The Kai Bar, their smaller barista spot behind the building. Open for breakfast 6am to 2pm daily. Coffee available 6am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and 6am to 5pm Sunday.
1354 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaʻa
808.822.5825
Breakfast is served daily until noon at Olympic Cafe and they’ve got all the basics covered — burritos, omelettes, and sweet options too. You’ll get your fill for a great price! Open Tuesday through Saturday from 6am to 3pm and Sundays 10am to 3pm .
Breakfast on Kauai's South Shore
Poipu - Koloa - Waimea
2294 Poipu Rd., Koloa
808.742.2113
Little Fish Coffee is serving up flavorful breakfast dishes to keep you swimming all day. 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 organic and fair-trade. What else do you need before 11am? Open daily 7:30am to 1pm, and is grateful for your business.
2251 Poipu Rd., Koloa
855.231.4535
Kauai native and award-winning chef Noelani Planas leads the kitchen of Red Salt, located inside the Koa Kea Hotel & Resort. If you’re in the mood for a decadent breakfast, look no further than the lobster Benedict. Or try the lemon pineapple souffle pancakes, which are so delicious they were featured on The Food Network. Open daily for breakfast 7am to 11am and for dinner from 5:30pm to 8:30pm.
The line is worth the wait at Anuenue Cafe, serving up tried-and-true breakfast favorites. Husband and wife John and Michelle are a team at this family-run spot: John honed his cooking skills as an O’ahu private chef, while Michelle manages the cafe. The menu features local produce including Kauai Roastery Coffee. Favorites include the Shark Frittata, which includes bacon, Kalua pork, sausage, and cheese, and the Tow-Ins: Hawaiian sweet bread topped with homemade coconut pudding. Open 8am to 12pm daily.
1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa
808.240.6456
Waterfalls, gardens, and koi ponds surround this open-air restaurant on the Grand Hyatt Kauai’s lanai, starting your day with a dose of Keoneloa Bay’s natural beauty. At Ilima Terrace, don’t worry about picking just one dish — you can have it all at their renowned all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, featuring fresh fruit, kombucha and juice shots, and classics with a twist like poppyseed pancakes. Open 6am to 2pm daily.
Did we miss your favorite restaurant?
Our always-hungry team of foodies have compiled this list.
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