You’ve spent the day exploring the beauty of the Garden Isle and there’s one last thing to do before calling it a day — eat a delicious dinner. We’ve hand-collected a list of the best places to enjoy a lovely meal in Central 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: JO2 Natural Cuisine Facebook
520 Aleka Loop, Kapaʻa
808.822.0600
Hukilau Lanai sources only sustainably caught fish and is part of The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch. The views here are great, and everything is made on site from scratch. There are several gluten-free options on the menu, and every night there’s a five-course tasting menu for $65, offered from 5-5:45pm. Reservations are recommended. Open Tuesday through Saturday 5pm to 9pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
4-971 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaʻa
808.212.1627
Chef Jean-Marie Josselin has created a menu that merges the culinary influences of his native France, the clean flavors of Japanese cooking, and Hawaii’s multi-ethnic community. Jo2 focuses on using local organic produce and freshly caught fish. Our recommended dishes include ono ceviche with coconut water foam, tempura lobster tail ramen, and sake cured steelhead salmon. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm to 9pm.
4-1546 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
808.822.7887
“Eat, drink, fun” is the motto at Sam’s Ocean View, where high-quality food, a stunning ocean view, and a casual atmosphere come together to form your perfect dinner spot. Their fish options change each day, and their commitment to freshness carries through to their hand-mixed cocktails — locally-sourced ingredients and never a soda gun. Try their guava, lilikoi jalapeño, or blood orange margaritas while you enjoy global twists on American dishes. You might even spot a whale out the window! Open 4pm to 9pm, Thursday through Monday. Happy Hour 4pm to 6pm, Monday, Thursday, and Friday.
