Kauaʻi — where to eat

Chef Jim Moffat's tapas of local fish, lamb, and seasonal greens — Hanalei's toughest reservation.

Oceanfront classics and a famous Barefoot Bar on Kalapaki Beach at the Royal Sonesta.

Roy Yamaguchi's plantation-era homage in Kōloa — local fishermen, farmers, and ranchers on every plate.

Family-run saimin stand slinging noodle soup and lilikoʻi chiffon pie since 1952 — cash only, worth the line.

Scratch kitchen championing Kauaʻi farms and fish at the Kauai Coast Resort in Wailua.

Homestyle sushi, ramen, and tempura in historic Hanapēpē town.

Chef Jean-Marie Josselin's intimate tasting plates — French technique, Japanese clarity, Kauaʻi-grown produce.

Tropical garden dining in Poʻipū — fresh catch, famous mai tais, and nightly island vibes.

Plate-sized mac-nut pancakes with house coconut syrup and kalua pork Benedicts — a Kapaʻa breakfast rite.

Peter Merriman's Poʻipū outpost — 90%+ locally grown or sustainably caught, above Poʻipū Beach.

One great idea, perfected: kalua pork & bacon hot dogs with pineapple-mustard BBQ sauce in Old Kōloa Town.

Sleek fine dining at Koʻa Kea Resort — seafood-forward menus and standout breakfasts.

Roadside Waimea stand doing one thing well — garlic, coconut, and taco shrimp on paper plates.

The legendary family-run Hanalei bar since 1963 — mai tais, live music, and old-Hawaiʻi charm.

Pacific Rim dining on Lāwaʻi Beach — Kauaʻi's sunset-dinner institution and 20-time Hale ʻAina winner.

Thatched hales floating over a koi lagoon at the Grand Hyatt — Hawaiian fine dining at its most romantic.