I hope you arrived with an appetite! I’ve broken down the best Kauai restaurants from fresh seafood to fusion fare. I even divided my list up into different regions of the island so you can find a bite wherever you are.

We’re talking everything from cozy beachside cafes that serve up warm fluffy pancakes to fine dining restaurants and beachside shacks. Kauai truly has it all, and I have definitely enjoyed trying all the yummy food so that I could report back to you!

21 Best Kauai Restaurants

Best Family-Friendly Restaurant	Duke’s Kauai
Best Farm-to-Table Experience	Merrimans
Best Food Truck	Kickshaws
Best Ocean Front Dining	Lava Lava
Eco-Friendly Dining	Healthy Hut Market and Cafe

Eastside Eateries – Kapaa, Lihu’e, and Wailua Restaurants

Java Kai

On top of their branding being on point and the vibe being great, Java Kai is THE spot for coffee and baked goods. They bake fresh goodies every day including vegan brownies, colorful pop tarts, and sandwiches served on fresh ciabatta.

We loved the Surfer Girl Sandwich and the acai bowl! Check out the full menu here.

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The Musubi Truck

A local favorite serving up delicious, freshly made musubi. This food truck is perfect for a quick, flavorful bite while you’re exploring Kauai.

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Kauai Juice

Kauai Juice specializes in cold-pressed, organic juices and smoothies made from locally sourced ingredients, catering to health-conscious customers looking for refreshing and nutritious options.

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Wailua Shave Ice

This is one of the best places to grab Shave Ice. We find ourselves here multiple times a week when we’re visiting!

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Island Craves Kauai

Island Craves Kauai is a popular food truck serving donuts, icecream, burgers and pizza. A wild combination but I am not complaining about it! I recommend sticking to the sweeter side of the menu here, the donuts are delicious.

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Kalalea Juice Hale

This hidden gem off the road is a must-stop for refreshing smoothies and acai bowls. Their tropical flavors make for the perfect healthy snack while taking in the island views.

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Sam’s Ocean View

Sam’s Ocean View offers a picturesque dining experience with oceanfront views and a menu featuring fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes, creating a memorable and scenic dining atmosphere.

My husband and I don’t drink much, but the cocktails at Sam’s are truly great!

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Lava Lava Beach Club

Lava Lava Beach Club is one of my favorite Kauai restaurants. It has a beachfront dining setting with a blend of island-style cuisine and cocktails, making it a popular destination for relaxed, tropical dining.

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Papaya’s Natural Foods

Papaya’s Natural Foods is a health-focused establishment offering a range of organic groceries, supplements, and a deli with nutritious, made-to-order options for conscious eaters.

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Oasis on the Beach

Oasis on the Beach offers beachfront dining with a menu featuring local ingredients, combining traditional Hawaiian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques for a delightful seaside meal.

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The Sleeping Giant Grill

My advice… try their mouthwatering grilled fish tacos and Korean BBQ chicken plate! This casual spot is perfect for a relaxed meal.

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Mamahune’s Tiki Bar

Mamahune’s is a family-friendly restaurant offering a mix of Hawaiian and American comfort foods, making it a go-to for those looking for hearty, home-style dishes.

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Passion Bakery Cafe

Passion Bakery Cafe is a cozy spot known for its baked goods, offering a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee creations. They have many delicious sweet and savory options.

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Kenji Burger

This is one of our favorite places to grab a burger and fries on the island! They also have yummy sushi burritos.

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Duke’s Kauai

Duke’s Kauai provides an oceanfront dining experience with Hawaiian-inspired dishes, a family-friendly atmosphere, and live music, giving visitors a taste of the island’s laid-back charm. Their menu has everything from seafood to steaks to burgers.

Split the Hula Pie for dessert, you won’t regret it!

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Kauai Bakery

Kauai Bakery is a local gem known for its baked treats, offering a variety of bread, pastries, and cakes that are popular among residents and visitors looking for freshly made delights.

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Kauai Sushi Station

This sushi food truck offers incredible rolls made fresh daily. While they have tables on-site, we recommend taking your sushi to the beach for a perfect island picnic.

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North Shore Favorites – Hanalei, Kilauea, and Princeville Restaurants

Kilauea Bakery & Pizza

Kilauea Bakery & Pizza is a local favorite known for its yummy baked goods and mouthwatering pizzas. This charming spot in Kilauea offers a cozy atmosphere where you can savor freshly baked pastries, hearty sandwiches, and creative pizza combinations made with quality ingredients.

The bakery’s commitment to using locally sourced products resonates well with visitors who appreciate the authentic flavors.

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Hanalei Bread Company

Offering some of the best cinnamon rolls and breakfast sandwiches on the island, Hanalei Bread Company is a breakfast must. Their freshly baked loaves are perfect to take back to your condo for toast and sandwiches.

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Wishing Well

A classic stop for shaved ice and refreshing smoothies. This iconic stand is a great way to cool off after a day in Hanalei.

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Healthy Hut Market and Cafe

The Healthy Hut Market and Cafe is a health-conscious hub offering a selection of organic and natural products. With a commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly choices, this spot provides everything from groceries to prepared meals.

I love grabbing a bite from the cafe section where you can find smoothies, salads, and sandwiches.

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The Spot North Shore

The Spot is a beloved eatery that offers a mix of healthy and indulgent options. With a focus on fresh ingredients, their menu includes a variety of smoothie bowls, acai creations, sandwiches, and more.

Visitors rave about the vibrant atmosphere and the refreshing dishes that perfectly complement the island vibe.

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Kilauea Market + Cafe

Kilauea Market + Cafe is a community-oriented establishment that caters to both locals and visitors seeking a wholesome dining experience. Combining a market and a cafe, it provides an array of fresh produce, gourmet deli items, and ready-to-eat dishes.

I enjoy the convenience of grabbing organic and locally sourced ingredients while also having the option to enjoy made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and more at the cafe.

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South Shore Gems – Koloa and Poipu Restaurants

Sunrise Coffee & Donuts

This coffee and donut truck is SO cute. The offer hand-crafted coffee, cold brew, smoothies, bagels, açaí bowls, and more. I love that it is locally owned!

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Merrimans 

Merriman’s offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients (over 90% of what they serve is locally grown or caught!), showcasing upscale Hawaiian cuisine in a beautiful setting. It is my top recommendation for those seeking a farm-to-table experience.

Their smoked taro hummus is my absolute favorite, and is included on their awesome Happy Hour Menu.

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Kickshaws

Kickshaws is a charming eatery known for its creative small plates and handcrafted cocktails, providing a relaxed and trendy atmosphere for patrons who enjoy inventive and shareable dishes. The Awesome Burger is delicious and if you are vegan, you have to try the Jackfruit Sandwich. It is so flavorful.

It’s the perfect spot for a casual date night!

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Kalaheo Cafe & Coffee

Kalaheo Cafe & Coffee is a local favorite offering a diverse menu of breakfast and lunch items, along with quality coffee.

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Little Fish Coffee

This is the perfect spot to grab a coffee and bagel to fuel your island adventures. I love their iced chai with coconut milk!

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Beach House Restaurant

With stunning oceanfront views, Beach House is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Known for its fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, their diverse menu offers exquisite dishes with a breathtaking sunset backdrop. A true must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience on Kauai!

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Lappert’s Hawaii

Lappert’s is a longtime favorite of our family for ice cream and treats. They have so many fun flavors! Their location in Poipu is in a fun shopping center as well.

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Da Crack Mexican Grill

Da Crack is the spot for a filling and delicious Mexican meal. You can create your own bowl, tacos, or burrito with choices of protein, rice, beans, and toppings. The portions and flavor will keep you coming back!

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West Side Eats – Waimea and Hanapepe Restaurants

Midnight Bear Breads

Midnight Bear Breads is a bakery specializing in artisanal bread and pastries.

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Ku’ulei’s Gourmet

Ku’ulei’s Gourmet is a hidden gem offering gourmet takeout with a variety of creative and flavorful dishes.

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Kauai offers a vibrant mix of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you’re indulging in fresh, local seafood, savoring sweet treats, or enjoying a quick bite from a food truck, these restaurants capture the essence of Kauai’s rich culinary culture.

Be sure to explore both hidden gems and well-known favorites to fully experience the island’s unique food scene. Your taste buds will thank you, and your memories of Kauai will be even sweeter!

Check Out All of Our Favorites on Yelp!

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