ʻEhiku mau hale ʻai pono e hoʻāʻo ma Kauai, Hawaii
Enjoying new restaurants can add an extra layer of satisfaction to a vacation. If you're headed to the beautiful island of Kauai, you have some incredible food to look forward to! Here's my list of seven must-try locations on Hawaii's oldest island.
#1 - Big Monster Sushi and Thai
My absolute favorite spot to eat in Kauai. They have the freshest sushi on the island, and some of the best Thai food I've had in my life. Top recommendations would be the Pad See Ew, the My Hero Roll, and the Spicy Eel roll (all shown above). Dishes range from about $10-25, so it won't break the bank either.
#2 - Sam's Ocean View Restaurant
Chances are, if you've read other articles about the best Kauai restaurants, you're already familiar with Sam's Ocean View. It's popular for good reason. The combination of high quality food and a picturesque view make for a fantastic dinner spot. My family's favorite dishes were the Fish and Chips, Shrimp Primavera, and the Caesar Salad. Prices here are a little higher, dishes range from $20-$40. But worth the splurge!
#3 - Kalalea Juice Hale
This smoothie, juice, and açaí bowl spot is a little further away from the main city of Lihue -- but worth the drive. While we enjoyed everything we tried on the menu, my advice is to head straight for the bowls. Easily one of the freshest and most enjoyable açaí bowls I've experienced! Most choices are between $10-15.
#4 - The Olympic Café
Similar to Sam's Ocean View, the Olympic Café has a unique venue. Instead of a beachfront view, you get to see the city of Lihue in an open, upstairs dining area. The food does not disappoint, either. The Kalua Pig Plate is worth your time, as well as the Avocado Chicken Club. Go ahead and skip the chips and salsa and burritos, but everything else we tried was fantastic! Prices range from $10-20.
#5 - Namaste Indian Food Truck
We didn't expect to run into fantastic Indian food in Kauai, but this little food truck along the Eastern coastline was a fun find! The generous portions and rich flavors had us tempted to go again before our vacation was over. There are also plenty of vegan and gluten free options for those with dietary needs. $10-20 a plate.
#6 - The Anahola Café
Wanting to try more of a local favorite? The Anahola Café is in a quieter residential area. Chances are, you'll be the only non-resident there! The burgers, fries, and chicken are all excellent. If you're feeling more adventurous, try the taro burger -- surprisingly delicious! This place has great prices as well, nearly everything is under $10.
#7 - Ilima Terrace Restaurant
If time and budget have room, the Ilima Terrace breakfast buffet is a phenomenal experience. Located in the Grand Hyatt, this hotel-style buffet has everything ranging from Bao Dumplings to English Muffin French Toast. The resorts also get first dibs on the best fruit, so be sure and grab some pineapple and order a mango smoothie. The buffet is pricier than most places, about $50 per person.
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