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Eating my way through Kauai's best restaurants, town by town! My top restaurant recommendations on Kauai.
@ El Taco Feliz
PLACES TO EAT IN KAPA'A
You'll definitely be driving through Kapa'a at some point during your visit to Kauai. It is the most populated town on Kauai and offers unique local shopping and eateries.
THE BEST BREAKFAST PLACES IN KAPA'A, KAUAI
Kountry Kitchen | $$
Great for a casual sit down breakfast with the whole family. Prepare to wait for a table unless you arrive super early. You'll receive great service and a hearty meal to start your day. One of my favorite breakfast spots on the Island.
@ Kountry Kitchen
Java Kai Kapa'a | $$
If you're on the go stop in for a quick pastry and coffee. This Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch serving pastry, light breakfast/lunch such as avocado toast or wraps. If anything, go for the amazing coffee. My go to was an Iced Matcha Latte with honey!
@ Java Kai Kapa'a
Small Town Coffee | $$
A cute local cafe ran out of an adorable red bus! Amazing coffee, tea, and pastries within walking distance from the Kountry Kitchen. While we were waiting for a table we walked over to enjoy a cup of coffee.
@ Small Town Coffee
WHERE TO EAT LUNCH/DINNER IN KAPA'A
El Taco Feliz | $$
Without a doubt one of the best meals we had on Kauai. Living in San Diego for 5 years we are accustom to authentic Mexican cuisine. This food truck blew us away!
Jo2 | $$$
Serving high-end dishes incorporating native vegetables and seafood from Kauai. You'll notice flares of Japanese and French cooking styles. Enjoy some of the best seafood dishes on the Island.
Bubba Burgers Kapa'a | $$
Open since 1936, this burger joint only uses Kauai grass fed beef. Stop in for a chili cheese dog, some fries and a classic old fashion burger!
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN PRINCEVILLE
Princeville is located on the Northern side of Kauai. Offering amazing sunsets and stunning beaches. You'll find yourself passing through if you plan to visit the Kalalau Trail, Queens bath, or Hanalei Bay. Princeville is where you will be doing a lot of adventuring, be prepared by packing these essential items that I absolutely could not live without on my trip to Hawaii.
WHERE TO EAT BREAKFAST IN PRINCEVILLE, KAUAI
Saenz Ohana Breakfast | $$
This charming food truck offers classic breakfast items with a Hawaiian flare such as scrambled eggs, french toast, and pancakes.
@ Saenz Ohana Breakfast
The Spot North Shore Kauai | $$
Cute cafe offering vegan options! You'll find healthier breakfast choices such as smoothies and superfood bowls. The also offer regular more hearty breakfasts too.
@ The Spot
BEST LUNCH/DINNER PLACES IN PRINCEVILLE, KAUAI
Nourish Hanalei | $$
Healthy lunch bowls, wraps, and salads. This farm stand also serves some of the freshest Acai bowls out there. Support this local business owned by 3 Kauai sisters and enjoy the scenic view!
@ Nourish Hanalei
Tiki Iniki | $$
The drinks flow at this Tiki themed bar & grill. The perfect atmosphere for a Mai Tai and bar food. This place does get pretty crowded around 4pm, probably because they have such a great happy hour!
Kalypso Bar & Grill | $$
This casual Hawaiian tavern is in the heart of town. You can't go wrong with the fish tacos and coconut shrimp. I loved this place for its location, being near many other restaurants and food trucks. It was easy to scope out tomorrow nights dinner options.
@ Kalypso
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN KILAUEA
Kilauea is on the North Shore of Kauai. You'll definitely want to visit this town for its charming historic lighthouse and beautiful rustic beaches such as Larsen's beach and Secrets Beach. Some of the best food on the Island is in Kilauea.
BREAKFAST IN KILAUEA, KAUAI
Java Kai Kilauea | $$
This second location is located in Kilauea. It’s definitely the newer and bigger version from it’s Kapa’a location. Also serving breakfast and lunch. The food & coffee are equally as good!
@ Java Kai Kilauea
Kilauea Bakery & Pizzeria | $$
Located in the Kong Lung Market Center. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Kilauea has great pastries, pies, and frittatas to choose from. They also serve soups, salads, sandwiches, and pizza! It's an all around great great spot to cure anyones craving.
LUNCH/DINNER IN KILAUEA, KAUAI
Kilauea Fish Market | $$
The best poke plate I have ever had! They also serve burritos along with other lunch options besides poke. The kimchi cucumber and seaweed salad were to die for.
Sushigirl | $$
Located in the Kong Lung Historic Market Center, this sushi stand is a must try! They even offer Vegetarian sushi options and everything on the menu is gluten free, except their seaweed salad. I highly recommend exploring the Kong Lung Market. You'll find a lot of delicious dining options and stores to shop at.
Palate Wine Bar | $$$
This Tapas and wine bar is also located in the Kong Lung Market Center! Delicious small plates such as appetizers, flatbreads, soups, and salad. Enjoy the hip, modern, and fun atmosphere while the staff helps to pair food with whatever wine you choose.
Kauai is my favorite Hawaiian Island with Big Island following as close second! If you are lucky enough to be island hopping don't miss out on Volcanoes National Park where there is active lava flow! Here is our 7 Day Big Island Road Trip Itinerary for more information.