Hawai’i is home to some of the world’s greatest foods and the garden isle of Kaua’i is no exception. In part 1 of this food tour of the island we will share 5 of our favorite places. Be on the lookout for 5 more coming very soon in part 2.
We are starting off with what may be my new favorite bowl of noodles. Period. A perfect pairing of Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese flavors, this dish is quintessential Hawai’i. Grab a seat at the counter and get the special – a hot bowl of wontons, roast pork, and handmade noodles all floating in a perfectly balanced broth.
Hamura’s Saimin Stand
2956 Kress St
Lihue, HI 96766
No Website
Now you may be as surprised as I was to find out that Hawai’i is home to some of the best burger spots around, and at the forefront of great Kaua’i burgers is the Hapa Burger at Kenji Burger. Sourced from 100% Kauai grass-fed beef, this perfect patty is topped with Cheddar, Bacon, Caramelized onions, Japanese BBQ sauce, and an incredible Sriracha pineapple slaw. Pair that with some Furikake fries and you are guaranteed to have a great time (and also need a lot of napkins).
Kenji Burger
4-788 Kuhio Hwy
Kapaa, HI 96746
Website
No trip to Hawai’i is complete without Shave Ice and some of the best is found down the road a little ways in the sleepy little town of Hanalei. In a little shack on the side of the road sits Wishing Well, who are making all of their own syrups and acai bowls. Any flavor you get will be great – just make sure you top it off with a snow cap.
Wishing Well Shave Ice
5-5080 Kuhio Hwy
Hanalei, HI 96714
Website
If you are in need for a early morning pick-me-up or a quick treat to take to the beach, then the Iced Mac Nut Latte and Lemon bar with toasted coconut and Mac Nut crust from Java Kai is the way to go. This place is always pretty busy so these treats are perfect for a walk through Kapaa or watching the sun come up on a beach a short walk away.
Java Kai
4-1384 Kuhio Hwy
Kapaa, HI 96746
Website
Bringing part 1 of this food tour to a close is something I never knew I needed with a combination of flavors I never knew could exist – but they do and it’s all thanks to the fine folks at Puka Dog. Trying to explain this thing is not an easy task but I will do my best. Take a perfectly cooked Polish Sausage, now slide that into bun that has been essentially impaled on a hot spike and toasted from the inside. Now fill this glorious creation with Garlic lemon sauce, fresh mango relish, and what I wish I could buy by the bucket, Aunty Lilikoi’s passion fruit mustard. Long story short – get it and get it now.
Puka Dog
2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr
Koloa, HI 96756
Website
Part 2 is coming very soon – in the mean time – let us know where our next food tour should be in the comments below!
Secret Local Hangout 