Kaua'i Restaurants

  1. Beezers

    At this nostalgic ice-cream parlor, splurge on banana splits, root-beer floats and ice-cream sundaes amid quaint 1960s decor. Forget the diet again with diner classics from sloppy joes to double-decker deli sandwiches.

    Read more about Beezers

  2. Caffé Coco

    At this casually romantic hideaway, Coco chefs have created a winning fusion menu with staples such as the tofu-veggie peanut wrap, and Moroccan-spiced 'ahi (yellowfin tuna) with banana chutney and a curried purple-sweet-potato samosa. Sinful desserts and quality coffees are irresistible finales. Beware of voracious mosquitoes (protect your ankles!).

    Read more about Caffé Coco

  3. Camp House Grill

    Set in a weathered ol' plantation building, this diner is known for its burgers and, especially, its pies (per slice around US$4 , whole around US$11 - US$16 from pineapple cream cheese to chocolate-chip macadamia. Mains are generous standards: catch of the day, huli huli (rotisserie) chicken, barbecued ribs. Expect neither fancy nor spotless.

    Read more about Camp House Grill

  4. Hanalei Taro & Juice Company

    In a kiosk near the town's east end, this family business specializes in taro edibles. Try fruit-taro smoothies, taro-leaf pita rolls, taro-coconut mochi (a Japanese sticky-rice dessert) and generous freshly made deli sandwiches.

    Read more about Hanalei Taro & Juice Company

  5. Hawaiian Blizzard

    For the island's best shave ice, stop at the white van parked outside Big Save. Owner Aaron Furugen is the low-key guru of shave ice, perfecting the art since the 1980s. Kids flock here after school and neighborhood regulars hang out and talk story.

    Read more about Hawaiian Blizzard

  6. Java Kai

    A mostly local chain, Java Kai is a nice alternative to Starbucks. Choose from a mind-boggling selection of java drinks, along with coffee beans. Yummy muffins, fruity smoothies and limited sidewalk seating.

    Read more about Java Kai

  7. Jo-Jo's Shave Ice

    While still a worthwhile stop with dozens and dozens of syrup flavors, the quality is inconsistent (eg skimpy syrup or gritty ice). Still, the colorful sign above the rickety screen door is a beacon and, heck, a small cup is just two bucks. Try unusual flavors like lychee, tamarind and rum.

    Read more about Jo-Jo's Shave Ice

  8. Keoki's Paradise

    If you're a fan of tiki restaurants, you'll love the tropical onslaught here. Although the whole experience shouts 'touristy,' the food is colorful and tasty. Stick with the fresh fish and the simplest 'naturally grilled' preparation. Save room for Hula Pie, a decadent hunk of mac-nut ice cream over chocolate-cookie crust.

    Read more about Keoki's Paradise

  9. Wishing Well Shave Ice

    Can't miss the colorful van parked near the Hanalei Taro & Juice Company kiosk! While its claim to be the oldest shave-ice vendor on Kaua'i may or may not be true, it does serve a fine product.

    Read more about Wishing Well Shave Ice

  10. Advertisement