Ipon entering the parking lot it looks small but there's lots of parking! As you approach and open the door, it gives you Mexico in a restaurant! My girls loved the environment, so clean and very quiet and welcoming! We had the carne asada nachos- 10/10 it was huge and mans was it stuffed to the top! The steak was cooked to the right temperature, literally melting your mouth and is not chewy! The guacamole was full of flavor! And man it was so huge it made me full!! We also got the kids bean burrito my little loved it and ate almost the whole burrito! We also ordered the quesadillas only cheese! It was played so cute! It came with fried rice and some fried beans in a little sauce bowl! The baby loves it!! And her cheese was pouring out the sides!! All in all the customer service is what topped it for us!! To have them interact with us and feed the donkeys and give a little knowledge of the animals next door was just awesome!! We definitely enjoyed our lunch and will be coming back in future! read more

Monico's Taqueria - Flan - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Seared ahi tacos- some of the best ever because of the quality of the fish used. Plated with very tasty beans and rice, another great dish to have post beach, sun and fun. Note- chips and salsa are $9 and there's a surcharge for using CC's. read more

Monico's Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

This was our first time eating here, we waited in line at least 10 minutes before they even asked to put our name on the list, hostess appeared to be either new or overwhelmed. The bar staff came out to help her still not saying anything to the long line of customers waiting. Once we were seated, the hostess apologized for the wait and thanked us for waiting which was nice.. Food was soooo good! Different than we are used to in California but I really enjoyed eating outside with the cool breezy weather. Soda tasted a little off, and noticed it had expired the month prior but I didn't say anything. We had an additional drink on our check that we didn't order, simple mistake and waitress fixed it right away. Our water was constantly being filled and the Bar Waitress even walked around to check on us. Would DEFINITELY go back! read more

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We were seated quickly which was great. We just stumbled upon this restaurant and we are glad we did. I had chicken fajitas and they were tasty. Hubby had the Mahi Mahi burrito and loved it. Chips and salsa are okay ... but food itself was good and service was good. The bus boys were great. On top of our drinks and cleaned up the empty plates quick which I appreciate read more

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One of the tastiest frijoles and guacamole I've had outside of home. I came here in a pinch, wanting food close by Lydgate beach. I ordered the catch of the day, mahi mahi, for the two taco platter. It was good. I got the mahi mahi seared, it was a little bland, but when paired with the yummy spicy salsa and extra lime I added; it was extremely satisfying. Cabbage on tacos is not a regular condiment to add, but it worked. They take contactless payment (tap to pay) so that was a perk. I really appreciated the attentiveness of the busboy, he checked on me while the waitress was busy. Overall, an enjoyable experience. The ladies bathroom doesn't have a hook to hang your bag or a baby changing table, which would be nice additions and a staple for bathrooms. read more

A friend who lives on Kauaʻi brought us here for dinner after flying in from Oʻahu. Onsite parking was ample and the atmosphere was lively from the time we stepped in. We were promptly greeted and offered either inside or outside seating. We were informed that live music was beginning shortly outside so that's where we headed. Entrees ordered by our party were the Fish Burrito, Carnitas Tostada, and Chicken Chimichanga. They came out quickly, and everyone enjoyed their choice, and we got to enjoy it with a live band in the background. A great way to start off our visit. As I stated in another Kauaʻi restaurant review during this visit, I found the prices to be $3-$4 higher than our favorite Mexican restaurant on Oʻahu. This pattern suggests it could be related to the additional interisland shipping charges, limited labor pool, etc. As I haven't visited a competing Mexican eatery on Kauaʻi to compare it to, I'm not deducting a star for their prices. Definitely check this one out! read more

From the initial greeting to the good bye/thank you, staff was very warm And friendly. Food was good and compared to other options we tried earlier, prices fairly and good taste. Yes, you don't for chips and salsa, seems to be a thing on the island. But was worth it when you get the habanero to juice things up. One of the best meals we had on our stay. Location is kind of hidden so you sorta have to look for it. Oh, and outdoor seating features plenty of their flying rats. (Chickens) another "thing" of the island. read more

Nice place to go for lunch or dinner. I love the food and dessert. I highly recommend this restaurant. read more

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Pricing is excessive and non transparent. Attitude was rude and dismissive. Would not recommend- there are other better Mexican restaurants on the island - do not waste your time and money! read more

Went here after being recommended it by another business. We waited to be seated and had at least three people make eye contact with us and walk by before someone acknowledged us. We ordered the grilled corn for an appetizer and spicy shrimp and tacos dorados for our entrees. A table next to us placed their order after us and got their food first. The grilled corn was just three small pieces of corn on a stick with bland toppings. The tacos dorados and shrimp were okay, but not something we will ever think about again. The rice is absolutely terrible. I'm pretty sure this is the same rice they serve you in elementary school. Would not eat here again. read more

Monico's Taqueria - Grilled corn - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Garlic Shrimp Quesadilla 2 not enough shrimp, can't taste garlic, cheddar cheese Seafood Burrito 2 fish, shrimp, scallop, veggies, not enough seafood, medium flavorful read more

Always an excellent meal at Monico's! We've been going there for 4 years now. Home style Mexican favorites with unique specials. Last time I got the lengua (tongue) tacos special which was delicious! Definitely the best Mexican on the island. Family run and you always see the same people working there for years which is a good sign. Servings aren't big, but they're filling and delicious. Margaritas on the other hand are substantial and equally delicious. Donkey adjacent. read more

My husband was craving Mexican food and this was the perfect fit! We started with chips and salsa. We like it spicier so they brought habanera salsa- yum! Main course was shrimp fajitas - excellent! Servers were attentive and friendly. The atmosphere was nice, we sat outside and watched the goats roam the coconut groves. Yep we will be back! read more

Monico's Taqueria - Shrimp fajita dinner - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Amazing mole! Location was perfect. Rice and beans were just alright. Service was very warm and friendly, just on island time tho... drinks were great read more

While on vacation, we had the fish tacos and liked it so much we came back again a few days later. Prices were fair. Staff were friendly did a good job. Nice outdoor seating. read more

Absolute TRASH. AVOID at all costs. If I could give ZERO stars, I would! Both of our alcoholic drinks (sangria blanco & captain buddy) were 90%-95% juice..probably bc our server made them, bc there wasn't a bartender! Server also never asked how our food was and then when she was collecting 90% full plates and we denied getting a box...she still didn't catch on. She asked again, 'you sure you don't want a box?' 'Yes, I'm sure that I absolutely HATED my meal & don't want a box.' Did she care? NOPE...just nonchalantly said 'oh, I'm sorry bout that' and walked off. Never attempted to inquire as to why we didn't eat our meals, never tried to make things right, & literally didn't care. It took everything in me not to ask for a manager and leave her nothing. Instead, she got 20%, & I wasted over $120. -chips and salsa...chips were good, salsa is pico, which was ok & hot salsa was too hot. -taquitos were good. I wish I never ordered a meal & just ate these & the chips. -Monicos special, which the server recommended btw....my husband referred to as 'disgusting.' Pork was extremely over cooked, and the scallops were chewy and flavorless. -Enchilada Verde with al pastor was the equivalent of cubed pork fat and a jar of cheap, salty green salsa verde poured on top. It was horrendous. I am wasting time on my vacation writing this review in the hopes of saving just 1 person from ruining their night & wasting money. Taco Bell right up the street would have been 100000 times better and 95% cheaper. OH and the cherry on top? They charge you 3% to use a credit card!!!!!! No idea if that's printed on the menu, but it's insane. $9 for chips and pico should offset their card transaction fees. read more

Monico's Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

What an incredible family friendly place! Customer service was top tier, our server Tiana was so helpful and attentive. The bartenders made perfect top shelf margaritas. Ac blows cold and football game was on. Let's have a conversation about that carnitas, how is it perfectly crispy yet tender and flavorful. We had the carnitas nachos, chimichangas, fish tacos and chile rellenos. Mahalo for the best dinner ever! read more

This is my goto spot in Kauai, been going there for ever, the staff is friendly and the best pork nachos in all of ( Mexico ) even if there in Kauai, I have been all over Mexico California and central and South America , love the Mai Tai's read more

Oh my goodness. The food was amazing. I had the seafood tacos and my husband had the fish burrito. If it hadn't been our last night on the island, we would have definitely ate here one more time before leaving. The service was great. We were seated right away. The hostess and waitress were very friendly and accommodating. What I appreciated most was I am one of those who thinks cilantro tastes like soap. When I informed the waitress of this, instead of giving me attitude, she gave me options. Very professional. Look forward to coming back when we return in 2027. read more

Eh...decent mexican though not enough spice or flavor for me. I was surprised to pay for chips and salsa which was a first for me. Portion sizes were very small. read more

Great margaritas, great food. Stopped for a late lunch around 2pm on a Wednesday and had the patio to ourselves! We ordered a round of their premium silver margaritas (on the rocks with salt) plus the green chili carnitas enchiladas and a seafood burrito to share. Their margaritas were refreshing, but strong! Tread lightly. Both the carnitas enchiladas and seafood burrito were excellent. I would happily repeat both orders, but their carnitas were so good, I would probably order their carnitas plate next visit. I love carnitas that are crisped up using a little bit of sugar to compliment the smokiness of the pork, and they do it right! For those who are used to Mexican being the cheaper dining option, heads up that the prices are steep ($25+ for a burrito)! read more

Monico's Taqueria - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

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The best Mexican restaurant anywhere outside of Mexico. It was such a treat finding this place.

We sat on the patio, perfect weather and Layla was great! The food was super tasty- chips and salsa included pico and a blended salsa, both very good. I tried the Carnitas, I'm from Az-I have high expectations. I like them to be crispy-and I wasn't disappointed! My husband had the seafood tacos and enjoyed every bite. The beans and rice were also decent. Good choice for Mexican food! Highly recommend! read more

Stopped here because it was recommended by someone at our resort and was only 2 blocks away. They did not steer us wrong. I had the Carne Asada - Machaca (shredded beef) Chimichanga and it was delicious. My better half had the Monico's Special which is their version of surf n turf. She chose corn shells because she is GF. It was a hit with her. Our waitress was great and very attentive We sat outside because it was very loud inside, but it became very loud outside when people finished eating. Next time we will get it to go seeing it is so close to our condo. read more

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What an excellent Mexican restaurant find on the island of Kauai. The food is so fresh and cooked perfectly. This food is NOT placed in a microwave then brought to your table. It comes steaming hot. The flauta tapas were so good. The garlic shrimp chimi made my tummy smile. If you like food spicy hot like I do, they can bring a side of habanero sauce. Have them make you a margarita with hornitos tequila and add some orange juice to it. You will need to sit a while. Coming from the Southwest, I can recommend this place highly. read more

Very friendly staff and great food. Nice atmosphere that's very family friendly. The restaurant has a good selection of dishes to choose from. read more

A must stop for lunch or dinner. We went for lunch! Had a party of 9! They were able to accommodate us so quickly. There is indoor and outdoor seating. Got big screen tvs to watch. Plus a full bar! The food is always delicious. My favorite are the nachos and chimichanga (not pictured- ate it too fast)! Staff are so friendly and treat the kids as their own. Kitchen staff are so awesome too! We will be back! read more

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The fish tacos were flavorless to me but the rice and beans were very good. I thought it was a bit expensive for what you got. The waiter was very nice. read more

Monico's Taqueria - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Sleeper build for sure. Paid for 2 dishes, yes, downside, but both were delicious. Carne asada hard tacos, 'seafood' fajitas with flour tortillas. More guacamole next time, please. Don't be shy. read more

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Overall an OK spot for a meal. PROS: Indoor and outdoor seating - view of baby goats! Full bar and reasonably priced drinks - spicy jalapeño margarita was nice Staff is friendly and professional Food overall OK Nice atmosphere Request spicy sauce...was good! CONS: $6.95 for chips and salsa! Fish tacos overall were plentiful, but lacked seasoning on the fish itself. Prices pretty steep overall for amount of food you get read more

Monico's Taqueria - Fish tacos - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Decided to walk to Monica's tonight. Service was really good. Carne asada was awesome. Seafood burrito was good. Today's special was Ahi in the burrito. Not a lot of Ahi and pretty loaded with rice and beans. The vegetables inside were very good. The chips and salsa basket was a miss. We questioned the price but went ahead and gave it a try. Recommend skipping the chips and salsa if you go. Paloma was average as was the margarita. It was pricey for what we got. Overall rating good but when I visit again will adjust based on the above. read more

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I would give this place a 4 star review for food quality, but... $9 for a basket of chips? To go with a $25 meal? I guess they did include ONE chip as garnishment. I also did not appreciate the 20 minutes I had to wait for the waiter to return my change--apparently his game was to hope I would lose patience and leave a $15 tip on $25 bill. read more

Arrived into Lihue around 2pm. We were glad Monico's Taqueria was open nearby the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. Restaurants around the area were closed, down the street there were limited hours. It was our first time trying out the place. The servers were kind and gracious. Although the menu was limited, the food was delicious. We ordered the Chile Relleno with one in green and one with red sauce with rice, beans, guacamole and either flour or corn tortillas. I was not expecting the sauce to be doused on the plate but it was good. ( I'm sure you can request on the side) Both flour and corn tortillas tasted very fresh! Also ordered the fish tacos. Very delicious and fresh as well. The food is a little on the pricey side, but remember you are in Hawaii, it's all good! read more

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Wow! From their website, I wasn't sure what to expect. Is it takeout now? Is there seating? Is it fast food? But turns out, It's a roomy restaurant with seating inside and outside. It had rained that afternoon and if it rained again we were warned that we might get wet, so we opted for indoors. They have a pretty extensive Mexican menu. The grilled corn on the cob appetizer caught my eye; in NYC, I only ever see that at a street fair, but this sounded good, grilled corn, 3 pieces, with butter and a sprinkle of cotija cheese (or maybe it's queso, I'm not sure). We shared the 3 pieces - basically a short ear of corn, cut into thirds. It was sweet corn and really tasty. Catch of the day was blue marlin, something we never have seen on the east coast, and it was amazingly delicious. So we both ordered the fajita with catch of the day, after our server explained blue marlin as a firm white fish. The fajita pan was chock full of fresh vegetables and the fish, with 3 tortillas (choice of corn or flour, we took corn), plus we each got a plate that had guacamole, sour cream, a scoop of Spanish rice and a small bowl of beans (server assured me that there was no meat in the beans preparation). This meal was so filling and so satisfying and really prepared well. We both loved it! And we shared a Modelo especiale that was on draft. Who'd have ever predicted that one of the best meals we'd eat while in Hawaii would be Mexican food?!?! read more

15 years I have been waiting to re-visit Kauai for the sole purpose of dining at Monico's, no joke! And finally this real dream has come true! Happiness! The only thing that has changed since last dining at Monico's all those years ago is the location. Monico himself, is still in the kitchen. I literally teared up to see him and his WONDERFUL family still running the show. The food is still as fresh as can be and the salsa's and chile sauces? Perfection. There is nothing I wouldn't recommend of enjoy here. The staff and service is authentic, meaning you aren't going to get any kind of pretentious vacation nonsense here. 'Down to earth', 'family', 'local', 'hard-working', 'lucky' are all words that come to mind when I think of their staff. Kauai is the literal Garden of Eden. It makes sense that this wonderful restaurant is located in a place that can only be described as heaven. Thank you! read more

Our server was great, very talkative in a good way lol. The enchiladas verde were really good but the sauce was kinda everywhere. We got to feed the donkeys which was unexpected but a really fun time; it was nice and quiet inside. read more

Monico's was super accommodating to our large party of 15. They were able to give us a reservation day of, which was unexpected and appreciated. My family ordered close to the whole menu and everything was delicious. My husband and aunt had the beef fajitas and loved them. I had the chicken flautas which were okay but not great. The corn was on point. The margaritas were amazing. The ambiance was good. Everyone had an enjoyable experience. read more

Monico's Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Really good food. Nice patio with good atmosphere. Would recommend. Please have a little patience, help is hard to find but they got the job done read more

Fabulous food! We have been here a week and have tried multiple high rated restaurants (primarily in Po'ipu)...this exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended for good quality Mexican food. We had the tostada and fish tacos; both were excellent. read more

Had a delicious breakfast at Monico's! Food was so delicious , Monico makes everything from scratch. We had the home made chorizo, as well as the Chilaquiles, really good food we will be back. He just started doing breakfast 8-12. The tequila selection is top tier, I counted over 100 different tequilas, including some very rare and top rated brands. Thanks for the great food ! read more

Monico's Taqueria - Over 100 Tequilas! - Mexican Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii