Where to Eat on Kauai: 25 Spots to Keep Everyone in Your Family Happy

If you’re wondering where to eat on Kauai with kids, I’ve got you covered! I’m a Hawaii mom and travel planner, and I put together this guide of our favorite places to ensure everyone in your family stays full and happy during your vacation.

I you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Kauai With Kids for more helpful tips!

Let’s dive in!

What Kind of Food is Hawaii Known For?

Hawaii’s unique food scene blends flavors from various cultures, offering delicious, fresh ingredients and island classics that your family will love. Keep an eye out for these local favorites:

• Poke: Raw, marinated fish (usually ahi) mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed.

• Plate Lunch: A classic Hawaiian meal featuring a main protein (like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken) served with rice and mac salad.

• Malasadas: Portuguese donuts, deep-fried and coated in sugar—crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

• Shave Ice: Hawaii’s take on a snow cone, just a thousand times better. Finely shaved ice topped with tropical syrups, and sometimes served with condensed milk, ice cream, or mochi (yes please to all three).

• Loco Moco: This hearty dish consists of a hamburger patty, rice, fried egg, and gravy, followed by a nap.

• Spam Musubi: A slice of grilled Spam on rice, wrapped in nori (seaweed), often sold as a quick snack or at convenience stores.

Food Trucks

One of the best ways to experience the local flavor of Kauai is through its incredible food truck scene. Not only are they perfect for grabbing an affordable bite, but many are located in spots where your kids can run around and play.

Food trucks move around quite a bit, so check out Best Kauai Food Trucks for current locations. Here are some of the best areas to find them:

Hanalei

Located on Kauai’s North Shore, Hanalei is home to several popular food trucks. You’ll find many options, from fresh poke bowls to locally made shave ice. This is a great spot to stop for a bite after wandering through stores and soaking up laid-back Hanalei.

Kapa’a

Kapa’a’s food truck parks are full of variety. Whether you’re after something healthy like an acai bowl or craving flavorful tacos, this is one of the most family-friendly spots on the East Side of the island. Many of the food trucks here have shaded seating and are a great option for a quick, relaxed lunch.

Poipu

On Kauai’s sunny South Shore, Poipu is the spot for family-friendly resorts and food trucks that are perfect for a post-beach snack. From fresh seafood to plate lunches, you’ll find some excellent options for refueling after a day in the sun.

While you’re in these areas, explore more fun things to do with the family in my Kauai Activities Guide.

Healthy Bites

For those days when you’re craving something light and fresh, Kauai’s healthy food options don’t disappoint. Here are some spots that hit the mark with their fresh, local ingredients and family-friendly vibes.

Nourish Hanalei

With an incredible view and fresh, local ingredients, Nourish Hanalei is a must-stop while exploring the North Shore. Their acai bowls are out of this world, my kids couldn’t get enough! It’s the perfect place to relax, take in the scenery, and fuel up for the day.

• Address: 5225 Hanalei Plantation Rd, Princeville, HI 96722

Kauai Juice Co

A regular stop for our family, Kauai Juice Co is ideal when we need a refreshing pick-me-up. Their cold-pressed juices and healthy snacks are perfect for a hot day, and the kids love them too.

You can find them in both Kapa’a and Koloa.

• Kapa’a: 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

• Koloa: 2827 Poipu Rd Suite B, Koloa, HI 96756

Best Breakfast and Coffee Spots

Kauai has great coffee and family-friendly breakfast haunts. Whether you’re heading out for an adventure or looking for a laid-back morning, these spots are worth the stop.

Java Kai

When wandering around downtown Kapa’a, Java Kai is the perfect place to grab a morning coffee. Their Feta Mo Betta sandwich is my favorite, and it’s the perfect start to a busy day of exploring.

• Kapa’a: 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

• Kilauea: 2555 Ala Namahana Pkwy #600, Kilauea, HI 96754

Hanalei Bread Company

A Hanalei gem, Hanalei Bread Company is a fantastic way to start your day on the North Shore. Their Brekkie Sandwich is a family favorite, and we always grab some Mac Nut Banana Bread to snack on later!

• Address: 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714

Little Fish Coffee

For those willing to wait in line, Little Fish Coffee delivers with their delicious acai bowls, bagel sandwiches, and strong coffee. The word is out, so expect to wait in line. There’s plenty of space for kids to run around!

• Address: 2294 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

Lunch Spots

From laid-back to quick-and-easy, these lunch spots are great for fueling up between adventures. Whether you want a quick bite or something a little more unique, here are some family-friendly options.

Puka Dog

For a quick and fun lunch, Puka Dog serves up Hawaiian-style hot dogs with a variety of tropical relishes. Located across from Poipu Beach Park, it’s a great spot for grabbing a picnic lunch. Don’t forget to try their lilikoi (passion fruit) lemonade!

• Address: 2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

Kauai Poke Co

Once a food truck, Kauai Poke Co now offers a sit-down experience with stunning views of Poipu Bay Golf Course. Their fresh ahi poke bowls are a must, but if your kids aren’t into raw fish, they also have plate lunches, Umami burgers, and a kids’ menu with chicken fingers and french fries.

• Address: 2250 Ainako St, Koloa, HI 96756

Sleeping Giant Grill

Known for its fresh, locally caught fish, Sleeping Giant Grill offers flavorful meals in a casual setting. I highly recommend the fish tacos and ahi wraps, and they have plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Their BYOB, and your kids can enjoy bean and cheese burritos or teriyaki chicken bowls.

• Address: 440 Aleka Pl, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Kenji Burger

Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Kenji Burger serves up the best Kauai grass-fed beef burgers, paired with Japanese-Hawaiian inspired ingredients. A Kauai staple. The furikake fries are a must-try!

• Koloa: 5404 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

• Lihue: 4454 Nuhou St suite 523, Lihue, HI 96766

• Kapaʻa: 4-788 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

• Kilauea: 2555 Ala Namahana Pkwy bld H, Kilauea, HI 96754

Dinner with a View

After a day of adventure, wind down at one of these family-friendly spots with stunning ocean views. Perfect for a leisurely dinner while watching the sunset.

Lava Lava Beach Club

This beachfront spot is a family favorite on both the Big Island and Kauai. Lava Lava Beach Club is perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner with a view. My kids love to run around and play bags while we relax and enjoy the sunset. (Or is it corn hole? This is a heated debate in my house.)

It’s right next to our favorite budget-friendly resort on Kauai—Kauai Shores Hotel. Find out more in my Kauai Resorts for Families.

• Address: 420 Papaloa Rd, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler

Right across from one of the best beaches on Kauai, Poipu Beach Park, Brennecke’s serves up fresh fish, sushi rolls, and poke tacos. After your meal, take a stroll to watch green sea turtles, play on the small playground, and watch the sunset! 

• Address: 2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

Hanalei Dolphin

Hanalei Dolphin is a relaxed riverside spot in Hanalei, perfect for fresh fish and sushi in an open-air setting. The outdoor seating is great for young kids, and while there’s no specific kids’ menu, you can order half sizes of a few items (look for “Menehune”). Also great for takeout!

• Address: 5-5016 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714

Tahiti Nui

Tahiti Nui is another Hanalei staple for a casual family dinner with laid-back island vibes. They offer extra seating outside, have a weekly luau, and the kids’ menu includes pizza and other kid-friendly options. 

This place has such a vibe! On a good day, you feel like you have been invited to someone’s family dinner.

• Address: 5122 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714

Keoki’s Paradise

For a fun, tropical atmosphere, Keoki’s Paradise is perfect for a nice family dinner out. With live music, fresh seasonal fish and steaks, and a terrific Mai Tai, it’s a win in my book.

Tip: Make your kid’s day by ordering an N.A. Pina Colada served in a pineapple, and don’t leave without trying the Hula Pie!

• Address: 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr, Koloa, HI 96756

Beach House Restaurant

For a more upscale option, Beach House offers incredible ocean views and is ideal for special family dinners. This is our favorite place to celebrate an anniversary or birthday while visiting Kauai. 

The outdoor seating is perfect for families with young kids, and the sunsets here are unbeatable. 

Standouts: lobster deviled eggs, and an award-winning Mai Tai topped with lilikoi (passionfruit) foam.

• Address: 5022 Lawai Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

Sweet Treats

No Hawaiian vacation is complete without indulging in some local sweets! Whether it’s shave ice, haupia, or fresh malasadas, here are some of the best spots to satisfy your family’s sweet tooth.

Need a break between adventures? Find the best beaches to relax with a sweet treat in my Kauai Beaches for Families guide.

Wishing Well Shave Ice

Located in Hanalei’s food truck park, Wishing Well Shave Ice is a classic. Grab some shave ice after a day of exploring the North Shore and enjoy the laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

They also make a killer cup of coffee!

• Address: 5-5080 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714

The Fresh Shave

The Fresh Shave is a family-run business offers a fun twist on traditional shave ice with fresh fruit toppings and a menu that’s playful and fun. Check out their secret menu on Instagram!

• Address: 5356 Koloa Rd Suite C, Koloa, HI 96756

Wailua Shave Ice

Known for their all-natural flavors, Wailua Shave Ice is a must-try. Each cup is packed with fresh, local ingredients, making it one of the most delicious shave ice spots around. Da Ube One is a fave!

• Address: 4-831 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Aloha Sweet Delights

For an unassuming, local spot with fresh donuts and malasadas, Aloha Sweet Delights is a must-stop. Grab a box early so they’re still fresh, and enjoy them on your way to Waimea Canyon!

• Address: 12550 Kaumualii Hwy, Kaumakani, HI 96747

Passion Bakery

Passion Bakery in Kapa’a makes our favorite malasadas on the island. I’m personally obsessed with the ube flavor, and my kids love them all. While they’re only available on certain days, they’re well worth the wait. Check their website for availability!

• Address: 4-356 Kuhio Hwy #121, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Family-Friendly Breweries

Parents deserve to relax too, and these family-friendly breweries offer a welcoming environment for both kids and adults to unwind after a day of exploring.

Napali Brewing Company

Not a small statement, but this is possibily our favorite brewery in Hawaii! I can’t say enough good things about Napali Brewing Company.

They feature delicious craft brews and an incredibly family-friendly vibe. I love that they let our kids run around, color on the floor with chalk, and dance to live music. Their kids’ menu is fantastic, and it’s a spot I can’t recommend enough for families.

• Address: 4-361 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Kauai Beer Co

With some casual outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere, Kauai Beer Co is a great stop for parents who love local brews. The kids’ menu and good food make it an easy win for everyone in the family, and it’s conveniently located on the way to the airport.

• Address: 4265 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766

Mucho Aloha Brewhouse

One of Kauai’s newer additions, Mucho Aloha Brewhouse, offers a fun outdoor space with fire pits, great drinks, and a small but satisfying kids’ menu. Possibly more suited for older kids, it’s a relaxed place with a cool vibe.

• Address: 5330 A, Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

Conclusion

Whether it’s food truck parks for a taro donut that will change your life (honorable mention to Holey Grail in Hanalei), healthy juice spots, or sit-down dinners with stunning ocean views, Kauai has it all.

When exploring the island, don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks for long beach days (Musubis are your friend!), and remain flexible with restaurant times for a more relaxed, enjoyable dining experience. Aloha and happy eating!

If you’re still planning your trip, don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Kauai and more recommendations for Things to Do on Kauai With Kids.