13 Best Restaurants on Kauai’s South Shore
Kauai’s South Shore is home to a handful of remarkable restaurants that are sure to satisfy every appetite.
In this blog post, we will be providing our top 13 picks for the best restaurants on this part of the island – from local hotspots cooking up fresh seafood to unexpected culinary delights.
From island locals to repeat vacationers, everyone agrees that these restaurants are simply spectacular!
Let’s take a look at what each has to offer and why they should be on your must-try list during your next trip to the South Shore.
1. Keoki’s Paradise
Need a mini-vacation on Kauai’s South Shore? Then set sail for Keoki’s Paradise for some tiki bar fun.
Enjoy an extraordinary evening with its tropical atmosphere and waterfall, the perfect backdrop to tuck into delicious Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.
Roasted lobster tails and even hula pie, yummm – don’t forget to wash it all down with their signature mai tai!
Hosting some of the best happy hour specials in Kauai, make sure you drop by for some irresistible pupus and cocktails.
Address: 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
2. Eating House 1849
Eating House 1849 is the perfect spot for romantic dinners; woo your date under a stylish canopy of industrial and tropical vibes, and let their food do all the heavy lifting.
It goes without saying that top quality ingredients come from local farms, and that’s exactly what you’ll find here.
Whether it’s the Duo Poke that pairs fish and veggies together in a pleasing blend of flavors, or the Original Blackened Island Ahi that thrills taste buds with its smokey heat, each dish seems to be orchestrated.
Address: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St A-201, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
3. Seaview Terrace
At Seaview Terrace, located in the Grand Hyatt, treat yourself to the highlight of the day with sumptuous fare, drinks, and views of the sunset over the lagoon.
Enjoy live Hawaiian music and discover locally-inspired delicacies such as Mentaiko Pasta accompanied by signature cocktails – or sample some much-loved sushi for a more casual affair.
To make it extra special, book a starlit beachside dinner for two!
Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
4. Duke’s
Duke’s is no joke when it comes to being one of the best restaurants in Kauai. It’s no wonder why, because this surf-themed restaurant is a classic.
From its homage to Hawaiian legend Duke Kahanamoku to its inventive menu items like Sauteed Mac Nut & Herb-Crusted Fish and Slow-Roasted Prime Rib, everything about this restaurant screams high-quality Hawaiian fare.
Plus, the atmosphere is worth coming here for! With stunning views lined with palm trees and overlooking Kalapaki Beach, Duke’s definitely gives off an awesome throwback vibe that leaves you wanting more.
The fun doesn’t end there though – Duke’s is also surrounded by various shops and parks so you can make a whole day out of it.
Address: 3610 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766, United States
5. RumFire Poipu Beach
Get ready to cozy up to Kaua’s south shore and sample some of the best food at RumFire.
Indulge in locally sourced delicacies that have been given a Hawaiian twist – all with stunning ocean views.
Enjoy some of the finest seafood classics such as Scallop Carpaccio, Misoyaki Butterfish, or Crab Crusted Fresh Catch.
And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, pair your meal with a selection from their rums from around the world.
Address: 2440 Hoonani Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
6. Merriman’s Fish House
Set course for culinary excellence at Merriman’s Fish House!
This elegant white-tablecloth seafood restaurant offers incomparable ocean and mountain views – perfect for setting the tone for a romantic night out.
Let flavorful crafted cocktails start the journey and then move on to local favorites like seasonal ceviche and lobster-and-crab cakes.
Although you can’t go wrong no matter where you’re seated, but take it up a notch and ask for a table on the lanai!
As the sun sets, candlelight creates an ambiance that is sure to redefine dinner conversations.
Address: 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
7. Brennecke’s Beach Broiler
Brennecke’s Beach Broiler is a one-stop shop for all the goodies that make a great island experience.
There’s more than meets the eye at this restaurant; it’s a veritable mecca for food and drinks.
With meals such as Coconut Shrimp with its creamy mango sauce, the Classic Brennecke Burger, and, of course, what’s become their claim to fame – the World Famous Mai Tai – it’s almost too good to miss!
For those looking to kick back and relax in style, outdoor seating is available so you can chill out while taking in views of the famous Poipu Beach Park.
What more do you need? Live your best island life at Brennecke’s!
Address: 2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
8. Volcano Pizza
Craving a slice? Whether it’s classic New York-style or something more experimental, Volcano Pizza in Poipu is the place for you.
With their delicious Neapolitan-style dough, it’ll be the best pizza you can find on Kauai – no arguing allowed!
Unleash your inner foodie and indulge in the luxurious Truffle Mushroom Pizza, or go all out with a heaping helping of Meat Lovers.
If you’re hankering for some East Coast flavor, don’t forget about their New York-style option – quite possibly the closest you’ll get to that authentic Big Apple brick-oven taste without getting on a plane!
All this and more waiting at Volcano Pizza – reduce your jet lag and add a few extra slices to your vacation memories.
Address: 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
9. Red Salt at Ko’a Kea
Red Salt at the Ko’a Kea Resort near Poipu Beach is the place to be for an upscale night out with a side of stunning ocean views.
True, it’s hard to look away from the mesmerizing beauty of the beach, until you catch sight of their amazing dishes, like wasabi-crusted seared ahi, red salt cake and Wagyu burger.
We hear they don’t sacrifice taste either, as they use only fresh island ingredients.
Address: 2251 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
10. Tidepools
Oceanfront views and a plethora of seafood make Grand Hyatt’s Tidepools restaurant an idyllic spot for those seeking out a romantic night out.
At this restaurant’s open-air compound, you’ll come across a thatched-roof hut floated over a koi-filled lagoon – just within reach of a cascading waterfall.
Picture perfect? Yes! But if your stomach is starting to grumble, no need to worry. Tidepools dishes up delicious modern takes on Hawaiian cuisine that never fails to wow.
Be sure to sample succulent dishes like Polenta Crusted Scallop, Hawaiian Catch, and the Macadamia Nut Crusted Island Fish – don’t forget to bring your appetite along!
Address: 1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
11. Da Crack Mexican Grinds
Looking for some delicious Baja-style chow? Da Crack Mexican Grinds is here to save the day!
Whether you need a quick snack or are diving head first into a full blown seafood feast, you won’t be disappointed.
They’re known for serving some of the best fish tacos on the island, and are worth every second of that usual marathon-long line.
Expertly balanced with juicy daily catch, crispy fresh cabbage, and a generous helping of pico de Gallo to top it off. Need we say more? Get crackin’, taco fans!
Address: 2827 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
12. The Cabana Bar & Grill
Cabana is a local favorite that disguises itself as an ordinary bar and grill, but don’t let the facade bully you into choosing a boring burger!
Get adventurous and try their Kalua Pork Slider or Seared Ahi Tacos – without fail, both offer just enough zest to make sure your taste buds don’t get bored amidst the sand and sun.
The restaurant also offers a friendly, casual beach vibe all around; cast away the notion of dull beachside grub – Cabana has got all your island cravings covered!
Address: 2290 Poipu Rd #9533, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
13. The Beach House
Re-ignite your senses at The Beach House for an evening of sheer culinary bliss!
This idyllic spot perched on the edge of Lawai Beach has it all: spectacular sunset views, crashing waves, and live music.
Sip on their signature Monkeypod Mai Tai and marvel at the tiki torches flickering in the twilight.
For the foodies, be sure to try their Lobster Deviled Eggs – you won’t regret it.
Address: 5022 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States
