Dining on the North Shore
Tahiti Nui Restaurant
If you are looking for onolicious food, live music, and a warm, friendly atmosphere, Tahiti Nui in the heart of Hanalei will welcome you with open arms. Since opening in May 1963, Tahiti Nui has been family-run and operated and continues to serve and entertain patrons with the same casual, romantic vibe found only in Hanalei.
First come, first served.
Location: Hanalei (44.7 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-826-6277
Bar Acuda
Bar Acuda is a popular tapas restaurant located in the picturesque Hanalei town. This charming restaurant is housed in a beautiful plantation-style building and offers customers a unique and flavorful small-plate dining experience. Bar Acuda serves up an extensive menu of dishes inspired by international cuisines, ranging from Spanish octopus with smoked paprika to Asian-style steamed buns filled with pulled pork. The restaurant is famous for its gourmet cheese platters, which come with a selection of high-quality cheeses and indulgent accompaniments like honeycomb and toasted nuts. Bar Acuda also has a great wine list with over 100 wines to choose from, many of which are sourced from small boutique wineries with a focus on sustainable and organic methods. The bar area is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a glass of wine and a chat with friends after a long day of exploring the island. Overall, Bar Acuda`s combination of delicious food, superb service, and charming ambiance makes it a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience on the island of Kauai. Whether you`re a foodie or a wine lover, you`re guaranteed to find something to love at Bar Acuda.
Location: Hanalei (44.9 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-826-7081
Nourish
Set on a little-known Princeville backroad, this little farm stand overlooks an amazing Hanalei panorama taking in beach, town, river, and valley. It serves a simple but healthy lunchtime menu of homegrown salads, fruit bowls, and smoothies.
Location: Princeville (43.3 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-346-2254
Hanalei Dolphin
The Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Hanalei on Kauai`s North Shore, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and stunning mountain views, this family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood and Pacific Rim cuisine for over 40 years. With a menu that changes daily based on the catch of the day, the Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant showcases the best of Kauai`s seafood offerings. Start your meal with the crowd-favorite Dungeness crab cakes served with a tangy mustard sauce. Or try their signature Ahi Poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with fresh raw Ahi tuna, seaweed, and sesame seeds. Main courses range from grilled Mahi Mahi to sautéed scallops, all served with a variety of sides such as crispy roasted potatoes and sautéed vegetables. Vegetarian options are also available, such as the savory Butternut Squash Risotto. The restaurant`s serene and picturesque atmosphere is only matched by the exceptional service provided by its friendly and knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner for two or a casual family meal, the Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant offers a dining experience to remember. (the best lunch in Hanalei).
Location: Hanalei (44.5 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-826-6113
Ama Restaurant
The Ama Restaurant Hanalei is a hidden gem offering an intimate, upscale dining experience and boasts stunning views of Hanalei Bay. Ama`s menu features a fusion of traditional Hawaiian and Japanese cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced, organic ingredients. Guests can indulge in delicious dishes such as the miso glazed cod or the Hawaiian snapper crudo. The restaurant also offers a daily omakase menu, where the chef selects a series of small dishes to showcase the best of seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere of the restaurant is serene and sophisticated, with a minimalist design that allows the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape to take center stage. This makes Ama Restaurant Hanalei the perfect destination for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. In addition, the restaurant also offers a selection of signature cocktails and an extensive wine list, ensuring a perfect pairing with any meal. Ama Restaurant Hanalei delivers a truly unique dining experience, with impeccable service, stunning views, and a menu that celebrates the best of Hawaiian and Japanese cuisine.
Location: Hanalei (44.9 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-826-9452
Palate Wine Bar & Restaurant
Palate Wine Bar and Restaurant in Kilauea is a must-visit for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. This intimate and upscale restaurant is beloved for its locally sourced ingredients, extensive wine list, and creative, flavorful dishes. With a focus on farm-to-table dining, Palate Wine Bar and Restaurant is committed to using fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft a menu that is both delicious and sustainable. Whether you`re looking for a romantic evening out or a special occasion celebration, Palate Wine Bar and Restaurant promise an unforgettable dining experience on the beautiful island of Kauai.
Location: Kilauea (37.9 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-212-1974