Our favorites in Poipu and Koloa. We recommend making reservations before you arrive on Kauai.
Luaus
When it comes to Kauai luaus, location plays a big role in the experience. Located on the southern tip of Kauai, Poipu is one of the most appealing destinations on the island. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to Poipu for its golden beaches, golf courses, fantastic shopping, and dining options, luxe accommodations, and perpetually sunny weather. Although Poipu is Kauais tourism hotspot today, the region is rooted in ancient and not-so-distant history. Poipu was a busy port during Hawaiis whaling era, and neighboring Koloa is home to the very first sugar plantation on the islands. Meanwhile, the area is dotted with Hawaiian historical sites that date back to the early 1400s. Poipus rich history, picturesque scenery, and flawless weather have attracted top-rated Kauai luau productions to the area, namely, Aulii Luau and Havaiki Nui Luau.
Break + Feast
Break + Feast offers more than just food; it’s all about setting the perfect atmosphere to enhance the flavors and make dining a truly special experience. Embark on a culinary journey that explores a mix of cultural influences. With a blend of Portuguese, Japanese, Hawaiian, Puerto Rican, French, and Filipino cuisines, the menu at this contemporary island restaurant showcases a rich tapestry of culinary delights that reflect the team’s heritage.
Location: Koloa Town (3 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-431-4508
Brennecke‘s Beach Broiler
With a beautiful view of Poipu Beach, Brennecke’s Beach Broiler is the place for delicious lunches, sumptuous dinners, happy hour specials, fresh seafood, pasta, steak, and pupu platters. What a mouthful! Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal after a morning at the beach or a relaxed dinner with a view, Brennecke’s is a classic Poipu stop.
For the full experience, make a reservation through Toast and request a table around sunset. Order a refreshing drink, settle in, and enjoy the view as the sun sinks toward the horizon. You’ll likely have some of Kauai’s famous chickens wandering (or strutting!) around nearby to keep you company.
And on a clear evening, keep your eyes on the horizon—you may even catch the elusive green flash just as the sun disappears. It’s a wonderfully Kauai way to end the day!
Location: Poipu Beach Park
Phone: 808-742-7588
Keoki‘s Paradise Restaurant
Locals and visitors alike love our refreshing atmosphere, bringing you right into the spirit of our lush island with open-air dining, tropical surroundings, and live Hula almost every night. Keoki`s has a very tropical ambiance and koi ponds giving you the true Hawaiian atmosphere. Be sure to order their famous hula pie which I go back for every time I’m in town. Once in awhile they might change up the flavor to coffee or strawberry for a holiday or special occasion.
Locals and visitors alike love the refreshing atmosphere, bringing you right into the spirit of our lush island with open-air dining and tropical surroundings. Check out the koi ponds giving you the feeling of dining in nature.
Reservations are made through Open Table.
Location: Poipu Shopping Village
Phone: 808-742-7534
Merriman’s Fish House
Merriman’s Kauai is one of our favorite recommendations for a special occasion—and my sister especially considers it one of her favorite places for a memorable dinner on the island. Located in Poipu in a beautifully restored Old Hawaii plantation setting, it strikes a lovely balance between casual and elegant. You can dress up and make an evening of it, but the atmosphere still feels distinctly Kauai rather than overly formal.
Chef-owner Peter Merriman is a pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine and the farm-to-table movement, and the menu showcases the incredible ingredients available here. Merriman’s focuses on fresh, locally sourced products, with at least 90% of its ingredients locally grown or caught using sustainable methods. Expect thoughtfully prepared seafood, locally sourced meats, seasonal produce, and dishes that highlight the flavors of Hawaii without feeling overly fussy.
And don’t overlook the drinks! In addition to their regular cocktail and wine selections, Merriman’s has an interesting and creative mocktail menu, making it a particularly good choice if you’re looking for something special without alcohol.
This is a great spot for a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, date night, or simply treating yourself to a memorable Kauai dinner. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels special while still capturing the relaxed beauty and local character of the island, Merriman’s is a wonderful choice.
Make a reservation for parties of 6 or less through their website or call if you’re a bigger group to ensure they can accomodate you.
Location: Kukui’ula Shopping Village, Poipu
Phone: 808-742-8385
RumFire
RumFire Poipu Beach is one of the South Shore’s go-to spots when you want to combine great food with an unforgettable oceanfront setting. Located at the Sheraton Kauai Resort, RumFire was designed around the spectacular views, with 180-degree ocean vistas from every seat. Whether you’re dining indoors or enjoying the open-air atmosphere, you’ll have a front-row view of Poipu Beach, the resort’s lush ocean courtyard, and the Pacific beyond.
This is an especially wonderful place to visit around sunset. Settle in with a cocktail, watch the sky change over the water, and enjoy the easygoing energy of Poipu as the evening gets underway. The views really are a big part of the experience here, so we recommend taking your time and making an evening of it.
The menu features locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients with global influences, offering a creative take on island dining rather than strictly traditional Hawaiian fare. And, as the name suggests, rum is a major part of the experience. RumFire boasts an extensive selection of rums from around the world, along with a cocktail menu that makes it a fun destination for anyone who enjoys a good tropical drink.
RumFire is a great choice for date night, a special dinner, sunset drinks, or simply enjoying one of Kauai’s beautiful evenings without having to go far from the beach. With the combination of panoramic ocean views, island-inspired food, and an impressive rum selection, it’s easy to see why it has become a South Shore favorite.
Make reservations through Open Table.
Location: Sheraton Kauai Resort, Poipu
Phone: 808-742-4786
Scotty Browns Poipu
A fresh addition to Poipu’s dining scene, Scotty Browns brings a fun, contemporary take on Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine to the island. The stylish, open-air setting makes it an especially nice place to settle in for a leisurely lunch, dinner, or a few drinks after a day at the beach.
The menu offers plenty of variety, with sushi rolls, creative bowls, fresh salads, burgers, and grilled specialties, so there’s something for just about everyone. They make an effort to highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients while adding Pacific Northwest influences to the menu. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a sushi roll or bowl is an easy choice; if you’ve worked up an appetite after exploring Poipu, the grilled dishes are a great option.
The cocktail menu is another reason to linger, with creative drinks that pair nicely with the laid-back island atmosphere. Grab a table, order a drink, and enjoy the open-air setting while you soak up the Poipu sunshine and ocean breeze.
Located just steps from the beach, Scotty Browns is a convenient option when you want good food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere without straying far from the water. It’s casual enough for a spontaneous stop after the beach but polished enough for a relaxed dinner out. A great addition to your Poipu dining rotation!
Reservations available online.
Location: The Shops at Kukuiʻula
Phone: 808-378-4355
La Spezia
La Spezia is a delightful Italian restaurant located in Koloa, Hawaii. This charming eatery is nestled in the bustling town and serves up a delicious selection of classic Italian dishes that are sure to tantalize the taste buds of even the most discerning diners. From its cozy atmosphere to its delectable menu offerings, La Spezia is a must-visit for any food lover on the island. The menu at La Spezia is designed to showcase the authentic flavors of well-prepared Italian cuisine. Start with a classic Caprese salad or bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil, followed by a savory pasta dish like their handmade fettuccine alfredo or spaghetti with clams, garlic, and olive oil. For meat lovers, there is the juicy ribeye steak or veal scaloppini topped with a creamy mushroom sauce. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in the restaurant`s popular seafood linguine that`s made with shrimp, clams, and mussels in a light tomato sauce.
La Spezia’s extensive selection of wines and cocktails complement their flavorful dishes, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Their skilled staff and warm ambiance make for a perfect night out with friends or family. At La Spezia, the owners and staff pride themselves on providing exceptional service and making each guest feel like they are dining with family. Takeout is available, as well, for those who prefer to enjoy La Spezia`s fare in the comfort of their own home. Overall, a visit to La Spezia is a must for any food lover looking to explore some of Koloa`s delectable Italian cuisine. With a menu that offers something for everyone and a staff that goes above and beyond to make each guest feel welcome, it is sure to be a memorable dining experience.
Reservations are made through their website.
Location: Koloa Town (3 miles from Poipu)
Phone: 808-742-8824
Stevenson‘s Library
Stevenson’s Sushi & Spirits is a wonderful spot when you’re in the mood for sushi, cocktails, and a beautiful island setting. Located at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, it has a more sophisticated feel than some of the island’s casual dining spots, making it a great choice for a date night, special evening, or simply treating yourself to a good cocktail and some excellent sushi.
The setting is part of the experience. Enjoy sweeping ocean and resort views from the impressive 24-foot koa wood bar, settle into the open-air lanai, or enjoy the intimate indoor space. The warm koa wood decor, along with hand-carved sugarcane and pineapple details, gives the restaurant a distinctly Hawaiian sense of place while still feeling polished and elegant.
Of course, you’re here for the sushi and spirits. The menu offers a tempting selection of sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes, while the cocktail list gives you plenty of excuses to linger. Grab your favorite drink, order a few rolls to share, and take your time enjoying the atmosphere.
For a particularly memorable evening, try to arrive around sunset and settle in for a drink while the sky changes over the ocean. Stevenson’s is less about rushing through dinner and more about enjoying the setting, the food, and the experience. It’s a lovely choice when you want something a little more upscale without losing that relaxed Hawaiian feeling.
Reservations can be made through Open Table.
Location: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Poipu
Phone: 808-240-6456
Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe
Start your morning the island way at Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe, a welcoming breakfast and brunch destination nestled on the historic grounds of Kiahuna Plantation in Poipū. Set inside a restored plantation-era manager’s home, the cafe offers lanai seating overlooking a koi pond and lush gardens — a setting that feels both rooted in old Kauaʻi and perfectly suited to a slow, sun-drenched morning.
The menu features fresh, comfort-forward favorites including pancakes, breakfast burritos, multiple Eggs Benedict options, sweet and savory crepes, and local classics like loco moco, alongside standouts like chicken and waffles. Coffee is sourced from Kauaʻi Roastery with small-batch, locally roasted beans, and pastries come from Orly Patisserie with French-inspired flair. Open daily from 7 AM to 1 PM, with free parking and grab-and-go options available — the perfect launchpad for a day of adventure on the South Shore.
After Sunrise
As the day settles into evening, the Kiahuna Plantation gardens take on a whole new kind of magic. After Sunrise is the dinner transformation of Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe — an open-air dining experience set among the koi ponds and tropical gardens of the historic Moir Gardens, where orchids and lantern light set the mood for a memorable South Shore evening.
The menu blends island flavors with comfort and creativity: starters like coconut shrimp, ahi cucumber boat, and crab cakes give way to entrées including island catch with soy honey glaze, blackened salmon over parmesan gnocchi, creole shrimp, island BBQ ribs, and an eggplant lover curry for those seeking something plant-forward. Save room for the malasada — cinnamon sugar coated with caramel and chocolate drizzle — or the chocolate crepe with mixed berries and whipped cream. Best of all, After Sunrise is BYOB, with wine and beer welcome, making it an ideal spot to uncork something special under the stars.
Location: 2253 Poipu Road, Koloa.
Phone: 808-892-2465
The Tasting Room
The Tasting Room, a wine bar on the south side, was created and designed by their ohana to provide a warm, welcoming place to share the magic of food and wine pairings. Both food and wine are elevated when they are thoughtfully chosen, prepared, and served together and this is the place for it. Call for reservations.
The Tasting Room, a wine bar on the south side, was created and designed by their ohana to provide a warm, welcoming place to share the magic of food and wine pairings. Both food and wine are elevated when they are thoughtfully chosen, prepared, and served together and this is the place for it. Call for reservations.
Location: Koloa
Phone: 808-431-4311
Dining with a View
Red Salt: Located inside the boutique Koa Kea Resort in Poipu, you will find one of our favorite dining options on Kauai. The service is exceptional and while you are not directly on the ocean the views are nice.
Honu Bar: Located on the beach at the Marriot Waiohai in Poipu; the Honu Bar has some of the best views and people-watching on the island. A great spot to watch a sports game, for surfers, whales, and beachgoers. The food is decent, not too fancy and they have good happy hours at different times of the day.
Beach House Restaurant: Often seen on lists as the best sunset view on Kauai for good reason. There are lots of local fresh fish options and some pretty good calamari. Be sure to make reservations because this restaurant is a must-do on every traveler`s list.
RumFire: Located in Poipu at the Sheraton Resort, Rumfire has one of the best oceanfront locations on the island. Enjoy the view with an appetizer or one of the diverse selections of entrees. Sit at Table 53 and a portion of your dinner will go to a local charity.
Breakfast near Poipu
Poipu offers many great breakfast options, with a variety of restaurants to suit any taste or budget.
Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe — The newest addition to the Poipu breakfast scene and probably the most exciting for longtime Kiahuna guests. Located in the former Plantation Gardens setting, it combines tropical garden surroundings with breakfast classics, local dishes, pastries, coffee, and open-air seating overlooking koi ponds and landscaping. Guests are already praising the atmosphere, crab cake benedict, fried rice, and relaxed setting.
Outer Bakes — One of Poipu’s newest morning favorites, operating mornings out of the Brennecke’s Beach Broiler location and also along Koloa Road. Known for fresh breads, giant cookies, cinnamon rolls, pastries, muffins, granola, and grab-and-go beach breakfasts, Outer Bakes has quickly developed a loyal following with both locals and visitors. The weekday morning lines often stretching out the door say a lot about how popular it has become.
Anuenue Cafe — Still one of the most consistently popular casual breakfast spots in Poipu. Known for generous portions, French toast, Surfer Bowls, and easy family breakfasts at Poipu Shopping Village.Little Fish Coffee Poipu — One of the South Shore’s favorite coffee-and-breakfast stops, especially for acai bowls, breakfast burritos, fresh sandwiches, and excellent coffee before heading to the beach.
Break + Feast — A newer upscale-casual breakfast and brunch option in Koloa Town from the former Kiawe Roots owners. Known for lilikoi pancakes, creative Benedicts, brunch cocktails, and more chef-driven breakfast dishes. Reservations are recommended.
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters — Excellent coffee stop in Old Koloa Town with quality espresso drinks, pastries, lighter breakfast options, and more of a local coffeehouse atmosphere.
Brennecke’s Deli — A longtime Poipu favorite for quick breakfast burritos, pastries, coffee, sandwiches, and grab-and-go beach food. The line out the door many mornings says a lot about its popularity with both locals and returning visitors heading to Poipu Beach and Brennecke’s.
Kalaheo Cafe & Coffee Company — Worth the short drive uphill from Poipu for oversized breakfasts, fresh pastries, local atmosphere, and some of the South Shore’s best baked goods. A longtime favorite with both visitors and locals.
Eden Coffee — Located in Poipu Shopping Village, Eden has quickly become popular for frozen coffees, smoothies, pastries, and quick grab-and-go breakfast options before beach days and island adventures.
Red Salt — Best choice for a more upscale resort breakfast or brunch experience with oceanfront atmosphere and elevated menu options.