Delicious fresh food. Hospitable and efficient service. Enjoyable live music. Fish prepared…read moreperfectly with several options for how it is cooked. Never disappoints!

My wife and I booked this place on a whim for a late night dinner and it was great! The restaurant…read morewas lively with a steady dinner rush, live music was playing, and staff was readily available and attentive. Their menu, as is the case at a lot of Hawaiian restaurants, is very heavily geared towards seafood, which I love, but didn't leave a ton of options for my wife. I ordered the "Keoki's Style," which is their seasonal fish atop some Okinawan purple mashed potatoes with coconut flavor mixed in. The fish was Wahoo, which is part of the mackerel family. It was flaky, flavorful, seasoned wonderfully, and the dish was absolutely amazing! Definitely worth paying this place a visit if you're nearby or in Poipu!

Every time we're in Kauai, always dine at Eating once or twice. Fantastic food, service and views…read more We had reservations which are highly recommended. Request a table near the windows for a sunset view. We arrived and were greeted and seated immediately. Shortly afterwards we were served complementary spicy edamame. We ordered three appetizers to share. Brussel Sprouts & Cauliflower, Black Garlic & Yuzu Ahi Tartar and Vietnamese Style Sashimi. The Brussel Sprouts & Cauliflower was excellent, golden raisins and pine nuts add sweetness and texture, balsamic vinegar counters with wonderful acid contrast. The Black Garlic & Yuzu Ahi Tartar is simply fabulous, one of the best bites I have ever had. I first had this dish two years ago when it was introduced as a new dish in a prefix meal. On that trip we returned to enjoy the dish once again. Had it again last year as I travel to Kauai each year. I'm happy to see it is still on the menu! Our third dish was the Vietnamese Style Sashimi and it was okay, although a bit underwhelming for Eating House standards. It was fresh but lack the complexity that I have grown to expect from this restaurant. We requested some wasabi and it helped with the flavors. My thinking is the jalapeño oil should have been more concentrated or pronounced. To be clear I did not complain, regardless the dish was removed from our bill. Very nice. Thank you. The server was friendly and knowledgeable. The view at sunset was amazing. Looking forward to returning. Highly recommended!

It was great to know that there was an elevator to bring us up to the level of the restaurant…read more After a terrible experience at another restaurant, it gave me the idea to call and see if they had an elevator near by. The front desk staff guided me to the elevator. This trip was for my birthday. In every reservation when asked about a special occasion, I put birthday. This was the first restaurant to acknowledge my special day. The check-in staff wished me well as did the server. We had been to several restaurants prior to Eating House that didn't say a word. Kudos to the staff for its kindness. The restaurant is open air and very comfortable. It has a rustic feel. We were seated by the window on a cool, rainy night but were perfectly dry the whole evening. On top of that, our server was very helpful in guiding us to order the right amount of food. He brought us a serving of edamame which is always on the house. The shrimp & pork potstickers were very good. I had the ramen which was tasty, filling and a great choice. Our server was terrific to put the spicy oil on the side which made it easier for me to eat. My husband had the butterfish which is the best I have ever tasted. It is a signature dish and always a pleaser. The only real downside is the limited menu. We were told that because of a staff shortage, it wasn't the typical menu. This was disappointing. But they did have the best of the Roy's dishes. So far, it has been the best experience that we have had in Poipu.

Big thanks to my wife for jumping on an opportunity to attend a conference at Grand Hyatt Kauai…read more After booking, I jumped on OpenTable to reserve Tidepools and luckily snagged one during our time here. Tidepools is absolutely a must-visit! Whether it is for the experience of dining on the water, upscale foods, or kind service, you have to splurge for at least one night on vacation! We had been to Tidepools together a few years ago, pre-kiddo, but this recent time was memorable thanks to the kind wait-staff. They had crayons for our little one, allowed us to walk around and view the fish nearby, and supplied us with delicious and fresh ube rolls, which our toddler loved (so much so that we had to take her actual kid's meal to-go). I ordered the Tai Chi, which is their version of the Mai Tai, and it was solid - great balance, and I almost ordered another one, but our little one was tired. To eat we got an appetizer of scallops, which was amazing - slightly sweet crust and juicy inside. My main dish was the ribeye, which was tender, cooked to my liking, and larger than I expected. Overall our best meal thus far during our Kauai trip, and if I had the income, would definitely eat here more than once per trip!

This place was ok. We came here for our anniversary and the setting was perfect. Our server was…read morealso really nice and friendly. We typically like to share things since we don't eat a lot. We got 2 appetizers (crab cakes and lamp chops) and our main to share was Hawaiian catch. Our server had mentioned since we were sharing, if we wanted to split it into 2 plates. We said yes only to find out on our bill, it was an additional $15 to do so. I don't think we got any more food than if it was served on one. That was a bit disappointing as we have shared things at different restaurant before and never got a surcharge. It was also never mentioned. The food overall was okay, the crab cakes and the crème brûlée was our favorite. We will probably try other places in the future.

A very inconsistent meal here. Our table ordered the Brussel sprouts and the mussels as…read more appetizers. Brussel sprouts were very good. After we placed our order for the steamed mussels the server informed us that it would be a mixture of mussels and clams. When the dish came out, it was all clams, no mussels at all. They were very good and the curry sauce they were steamed in was yummy, but it just wasn't what we initially ordered. I ordered the fresh catch fish, which was very disappointing. The fish itself was very fresh tasting, but it was overcooked to the point of being dry. It was also bland and seemed to be unseasoned. It sat on a bed of purple sweet potato with a fresh succotash mixture on the side. The vegetables must have been plated long before the fish was ready because the potatoes and vegetables were no longer even warm, which was an unpleasant combo with the overcooked, bland fish. There was a sauce on the side, but not nearly enough considering the dry slab of tasteless fish sitting on top of cold potatoes. Others at the table ordered the lamb chops and steaks. The lamb chops were delicious and those at our table with steaks seemed very happy with them. Our server forgot to bring the drinks to 2 of the 6 people in our party. She did offer to remove the mussels from the bill due to the error in preparing this dish. Atmosphere was extremely loud, there was a singer in the bar area with the volume turned up high. That combined with the large bar area open to the restaurant made it so loud that it was nearly impossible to carry on a conversation in the dining area. It is a fairly pricey restaurant. For the price, I'd expect better service and a better prepared meal. There are far better choices elsewhere on the island.

We are staying on the resort and ate here couple of times. Beautiful floor to ceiling windows of…read morethe breaking waves. Epic backdrop to a really good meal. Service is so prompt, friendly and attentive. He was great 10/10. Thanks, Greg! Everyone in my party loved their dinners. Short rib, miso cacio e pepe and crab crusted fresh catch. Must order the fried brussel sprouts and ahi panzanella (unique flavors but so cohesive and surprisingly delicious)..... ONOLICIOUS. Side of fried rice was sad. I don't recommend.

We've been coming to Kauai for years and have dined at many of the island's best restaurants, but…read moreMerriman's is still our absolute favorite. In our opinion, it has the best food on the island. Every meal is beautifully prepared, incredibly fresh, and consistently outstanding, which is why it's a must-visit every time we're here...actually we come multiple times.  One of the biggest reasons we return is Mandy. She is, without question, the best bartender on Kauai. Her cocktails are exceptional and, more importantly, remarkably consistent. Whether it's our first visit of the trip or our last, every drink is perfectly crafted and tastes exactly the way it should. That level of consistency is rare and speaks to the pride she takes in her work. Beyond making amazing drinks, Mandy has a genuine warmth and aloha spirit that makes every guest feel welcome. She's friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, and somehow always seems to know exactly what you need before you have to ask. She remembers her guests, offers wonderful recommendations, and makes every visit feel special. Outstanding food is what first brought us to Merriman's, but Mandy is one of the biggest reasons we come back year after year. She is an incredible ambassador for Merriman's and a true asset to the team. Mahalo, Mandy! We can't wait to see you again on our next trip to Kauai. Simon and Heather

Best meal of the trip. That seared ahi with jasmine garlic rice is something I'll go back home…read moredreaming about. It was a perfect sear (didn't taste wasabi but the shoyu flavor sear is to die for), complementary flavors of the rice and perfectly seasoned wok bok slaw. The wagyu tenderloin and Mac nut crusted fish were also so, so delicious. Honestly, I'd be happy to eat any of these three entrees. The tako escargot was beyond over cooked, however the flavors were exceptional. I'd order it again and give it another try. Tastes just like authentic French escargot, and make sure to dip the provided bread into all that delicious butter. We ended the night with the chocolate purse and it was so light, but still so fulfilling. This location kicks mauis locations butt in food! Server was great and knew lots of fun facts about the Merriman restaurants. They were very accommodating with my baby. Thanks for the best meal of our trip, Merrimans!

(Dine/Drank 04/24/26 FR @ 5:30pm & 04/25/26 SA @ 4:00pm): I needed a brew as soon as I landed on…read morethe garden isle of Kaua'i! My first dining experience on this short trip was at Kaua'i Island Brewing Co. The oldest cumulative brewery on Kaua'i at 23 years, it held the distinction as the world's westernmost brewery on the island of Kaua'i based on where the International Dateline crossed American Samoa. It's been years since I last visited Kaua'i when the now departed Kaua'i Beer Co. was my watering hole. Would their own brews keep me in good company with local islanders!? PURCHASE(S) Polihale German Pilsner Beer 4.5% ABV 16floz Draft ($9.00): Rich amber golden color, bready malty aroma, light body, bready malty flavor, clean crisp finish, and bready malty aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=144&select=FG3TKIb49pfNd0qAtGDMCQ Pillow Talk Hazy NEIPA Beer 8.0% ABV 16floz Draft ($9.00): Rich amber hazy color, hoppy tropical aroma, light body, fruity hoppy sweet tropical flavor, crisp juicy smooth finish, and fruity hoppy tropical aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=gwulAoIAxMB_tVEMQ0al2A 3pc Lilikoi Fish & Chips ($24.00): Plump sweet-tinged fried cod on a bed of crunchy dry slaw, these were a pleasure to devour as prepared. The abundance of spud sticks were crispy, nicely seasoned, and didn't require any condiments. A righteous entree! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=djLhco95b_5u0U0RlBbk6A Alakai Oatmeal Stout Beer 9.0% ABV 16floz Draft ($9.00): Dark brown color, bold coffee earthy aroma, heavy body, rich chocolate coffee oatmeal flavor, mouthfeel smooth finish, and bitter chocolate coffee oatmeal aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=LwL4ONu9vKCuyB13ptnfVw Old-Fashioned Cocktail ($15.00): Impressed by their vast assortment of whiskeys, I tried this classic to finish my meal. I couldn't recall the whiskey used, but it was simplicity at its best! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=XzJ4aB5YUIxPOzVKJKaR6w Lilikoi Golden Ale Blonde Beer 5.0% ABV 16floz Draft ($7.00 HH): Hazy amber color, fruity tropical aroma, light body, fruity sweet tropical flavor, creamy smooth finish, and fruity sweet tropical aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=5APA6Qzw7emqfQDaadHhIQ [ONION RINGS/STRAWS/STRINGS ALERT - 5.0 of 5.0 STARS] Onion Rings ($8.00 HH): A decent portion with rings of medium to large sizes, these were hot, dark golden browned, crunchy, and had a slight tendency to crumble when bitten into while the onion ring (sweet Maui!) rarely pulled out at times. They were lightly oily while the sweet chili dipping sauce wasn't needed but used. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=0YBus8D4RN8ssUjlFxf5WQ Credit Card Surcharge 3.0% ($2.43): More businesses did this to try and offset costs. SERVICE Warmly greeted by the hostess and women behind the bar, I made my way to a stool for a front row seat of the action (my second visit I sat at a nearby table). I was given a glass of water, menus, and then time to decide. I easily placed my orders as I hung around. I was always checked on, my water filled, and empties removed. It was all chill - mahalo! PARKING (Varied; N/A this instance): I took the bus, so this wasn't an issue for me. Otherwise, there appeared to be some onsite parking with spots along the main drag of Koloa Rd. and other side streets - 'nuff said. ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE A quaint sports and whiskey bar https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=144&select=eiwUAzd_sgmG96tMBgcfBg inside with an old-feel brick and wood combo https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw&start=120&select=GK1gFqK6-KqkqBWgPDbpEg while a spacious covered outdoor patio kept things casual, there were plenty of places to sit. Plenty of natural lighting both inside and on the patio while an assortment of electric ceiling lights filled in the rest. There were several muted TVs throughout while classic rock & roll music played in the background. ATTIRE Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops. OVERALL I had an awesome time at Kaua'i Island Brewing Co. and would visit again. They had 12 beers on tap, the food was wonderful, the prices were a tad high, and the service was great. Unsure if furry family members were allowed. Daily happy hour specials and almost certain nightly entertainment such as trivia, music, and more was available. I found complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $87.00 BEFORE any discounts, points usage, and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS

Service alone gives this place a top score. Our server Chris is what I would call a true salesmen…read more A genuinely good guy who is easy to talk to, can ease tensions and make you feel like ohana. Food is pretty good, with a SUPRSING Keiki Mac and Cheese that my God Daughter ordered, that I ended up eating most of because she fell asleep. This wasn't no Kraft blue box! I ordered the Calamari and it was delicious. Great appetizers. All the beers we ordered were great, and Chris will explain to you everything you need to know about them. If you're a sour guy, the Calamansi Sour was tops. Sooooooo amazing! To top it off...best Mai Tai's I've had... and yes, I'm taking into account the famous ones from this Island. Pizzas were good, on-par with decent pub pizza. My only reservation with this place is the nickel and diming of sauces etc. $1 for Tartar sauce and ranch to me sounds a bit nit-picky when you consider the sheer size of our bill. Loved that they kept the place going for us a little past closing. We immediately knew they were waiting for us when the music shut off for closing when we stepped outside. BTW, plenty of outdoor seating. Only a few seats inside. You may wait a bit if you want to stay inside. Will 10000% be back.

Sensational food and service to match. You almost feel like you're eating in someone's home. We…read moretend to dine later in the evening which was good in that it wasn't crowded in the restaurant but bad in that they'd already sold out in a couple items. I ended up choosing the vongole e gamberetti which was a nice blend of fresh seafood and spaghetti in a zesty broth. However, m'lady got the spaghetti bolognese and I'm telling you: this is the best, most flavorful, freshest bolognese I've ever tasted. I only got 2 bites and had to play it cool because, well, I made the choice I did. I was effusive in my praise afterwards and everyone who worked there concurred and said I was just the latest to discover this incredible dish! If you enjoy this dish, trust me: it's better than any other kind you've had in the past. After the meal, we met another waiter and chatted with him about the restaurant, recipes, and this neighborhood. Just as friendly as everyone else. Make it a point to stop here and get that bolognese!

I'm reevaluating my review from 2+ years ago! The restaurant is under new ownership and the wait…read morehelp/ hostess lack experience and the quality of the food is not the authentic LaSpesia recipes of previous owners. And I believe the prices have gone up but so has everything. I hope this review is accepted with no disrespect only constructive criticism. Aloha Jerry

The food. The service. The views. This was one of the best breakfast meals I have had, and Marlina…read moremade it exceptionally special. She directed us towards the most popular items on menu and they delivered! Great service and GREAT food. 10/10 experience

Food was great and Marlina was wonderful. Excellent service! Definitely would recommend Red Salt.read more