Hawaii: Kauai, Local Eats

When I am traveling, I always ask locals where they like to dine. Eating the indigenous cuisine of the countries I visit, and experiencing the food that locals eat, is one of my favorite things to do. I will try almost anything once (as my husband watches in horror). Thank goodness he takes the photos. Here are a few local food spots in Kauai that you will NOT want to miss.

Hamuras in Lihue, Kauai; photo by Kathy Leonardo; courtesy of ETG

I heard about Hamoras from a shop owner, as well as a friend who raved about it before we traveled to Kauai. I also realized I had dined here years ago. I was glad to be back to enjoy the delicious food. The Special Saimin is a jumbo bowl of flavorful broth…large enough to be shared (see photo on left side of article), with green onions, ham, fish cake, vegetables, wontons, roast pork, egg and noodles. The crispy fried wontons (filled with pork, shrimp and green onions) are also delicious…along with the chicken sticks. Hamoras has been in business since 1951, and the food is scrumptious. Sorry no website, see the Hamoras FB Page. 2956 Kress St., Lihue; https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hamura-Saimin-Stand/122014851142236

Da Crack (Koloa) is a locally owned family business…Mexican with a Hawaiian twist. The chipotle garlic shrimp bowl is fantastic. The food is quite fresh. Enjoy fish from the island, Shrimp, Beef, Chicken, Pork, Vegan, and Vegetarian options. Da Crack. 2827 Poipu Rd, Poipu, Kauai, HI 96756-8553; https://www.dacrackkauai.com/

Da Crack; photo by Kathy Leonardo; courtesy of ETG

If you like tacos, Paco’s Tacos has several locations on the island of Kauai. Offering tasty authentic Mexican dishes, this establishment features live music and a great happy hour menu. Be sure to check the website to find the most convenient location for you. https://pacostacoskauai.com/

I was told by another local to check out Konohiki Seafood in Lihue. I am so glad I did…this local deli/food shop has the most interesting raw fish dishes and poke galore. There are no tables here, take out only. But if you love fresh fish and sushi rolls, get the Kaiona Ballz, Star Ballz…and some poke. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.


The Shrimp Station is a no frills counter service only eatery. We stopped on our way back after our hike (near Waimea canyon), so I was ready to eat. This place is all about shrimp…made any way you want…good food but very casual (to go) type food. Sit at the picnic tables, steps from the counter and a few feet off Kamuali’i Highway. The locally owned food stop also features tasty fresh salsa and papaya ginger tartar sauce. The coconut shrimp was delicious.

Shrimp Station; photo courtesy of ETG

The Shrimp Station 9652 Kamuali’i Highway Waimea, Hawaii, 96796; https://theshrimpstation.net/

Well that’s all kids – if you’d like to recommend a tasty favorite local spot…let me know.

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