Kauai Dining & Local Food

Lau lau on Kauai

If you find yourself in Lihue (a likely discovery if you’re visiting the Garden Island) you’ll want to visit Smiley’s Local Grinds. Visitors often mention the lau lau served here as being some of the island’s best - and what’s more, at 4100 Rice St, it’s just down the street from the self-explanatory Kauai Beer Company.

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Mixed Plate on Kauai

Mark is king regarding the mixed plate on the island of Kauai. Having received a fair amount of press over the years, this adored local spot is so known for its plate lunch that it has its signature, best-selling mixed plate, which comes with chicken katsu, teriyaki beef, and beef stew.

Mark’s Place has been in Lihue since 1998, when chefs Mark and Wendy Oyama founded it. The restaurant has been routinely listed among the best food places in Kauai, if not all, of Hawaii. Mark Oyama was recently inducted into the Hawaii Restaurant Hall Of Fame.

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Malasadas on Kauai

Malasadas are fluffy, deep-fried Portuguese doughnuts rolled in sugar, and they’re a must-try treat on Kauai. One of the most popular spots to get them is Tex Drive-In in Hanalei, known for its fresh, pillowy malasadas with various delicious fillings.

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Poke on Kauai

Originally, a food truck that served the most authentic local food, but it has since been upgraded to a restaurant. Here, you'll find some great poke.

On the island of Kauai, in the town of Poipu, you’ll find the Kauai Poke Company. Here is a source of fresh and beautifully prepared poke bowls and dishes. Scroll around their Instagram if you want to see some examples for yourself!

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Shave Ice on Kauai

The island of Kauai is home to one of the most distinctly high-end shave ice experiences found anywhere in the state. Waikomo Shave Ice stands out from other Kauai shave ice shops by using all-natural ingredients, no artificial flavors or colors, and, best of all, served in a real coconut shell.

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Loco Moco on Kauai

On this, the most minor and typically more limited of the four central Hawaiian Islands, there seems to be something of a clear winner among general opinion.

Mark’s Place serves what most seem to say is the best loco moco on the island. This is another local, takeout-only spot on our list; it is located in Lihue at 1610 Haleukana Street.

They also sell homemade cookies, which is an obvious upsell.

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