(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

Come early, leave full…read more After many friends recommended Puka dogs, we couldn't wait to come here! We arrived around 1 to get in line, and waited about 45 minutes. Luckily the line was shaded so it wasn't terrible. We finally got our turn to go inside and wait in line. The ambiance was super welcoming and relaxing. When we got to the front of the line, we ordered 3 hot dogs to share between the 2 of us (definitely could have just had 2) and each got a lemonade. The lemonade was tasty and refreshing and the Puka dogs were AMAZING. We got the mild, spicy and lava spice level sauces. Honestly the lava spice wasn't super spicy, the server described it as hot Cheetos. The different relish's were amazing. I loved the coconut and pineapple best. If I lived here I'd be in trouble because I'd come back many times!

Puka Dog is one of those "only in Hawaii" experiences that you simply have to try!…read moreYes, it's more expensive than a regular hot dog (around $12), but this is so much more than just grabbing lunch--it's part of the Kauai experience. The concept is unique and fun. Instead of a traditional bun, the bread is toasted from the inside, creating a warm pocket that is filled with your choice of tropical fruit relish, Hawaiian-style mustard, and sauces before the sausage is inserted. We chose the Polish sausage, and it was delicious--juicy, flavorful, and paired perfectly with the sweet and savory toppings. They also make an excellent fresh lemonade, which was the perfect complement on a warm Kauai morning. Inside, you'll also find coffee, banana bread, and a selection of other drinks and snacks. We arrived around 10:30 a.m., and the line was very manageable. I'm sure it gets much longer around lunchtime, but the staff has the process down to a science. Everything moves quickly, and it's obvious they're very efficient. Is it a gourmet meal? No. Is it a fun, uniquely Kauai experience that's worth trying at least once? Absolutely! If you're visiting Poʻipū Beach, don't miss Puka Dog. It's a fun local tradition, the food is tasty, the service is fast, and it's one of those places you'll remember long after your vacation is over. Highly recommended!

Yo! This is great Mexican burritos and tacos. Great…read more Really can't not eat here all the time. So darn good. The shrimp tacos. The shrimp burrito. The fish tacos. Even the pork tacos. So good. I cannot describe how good they are. Best flood. The service is a window. So take the order. What for the food. That's it, pretty simple. And it's right down the street from a lot of beaches. It's great after a day in the sun. Simple setting next to the market. Go get yourself some. You will live it.

Aloha! Da Crack Mexican Grinds is a popular, casual, walk-up window spot in Poipu, Hawaii, known…read morefor its flavorful, customizable Mexican food with a Hawaiian twist. The vibe here is casual, trendy, and often busy with long lines and loud music! This spot is known for their burritos, burrito bowls, and tacos (especially shrimp tacos). As for me, the real highlight were the kajiki tacos (that's blue marlin)- freshly grilled and topped with pico de gallo and cheese with rice and beans. The kajiki had a very mild, yet subtle sweet, citrus taste. And the grilled marks were perfect! Highly recommend 10/10! Overall, service was great! The staff were quick, efficient and very friendly! The pricing is reasonable and affordable. We will definitely be back for more!

This is a great place to grab an outdoor breakfast at a resort, but not feel like you're in splash…read morezone next to the pool. As of this moment, there is construction fencing around the grounds, so it was hard to find this place from the road if you're not staying at this hotel, but parking seemed plentiful. And then you have to walk towards the pool and past the snack shop to find it. The host stand is also outdoors away from the patio. Avocado Toast was yummy, but a little slippery: the sliced tomatoes that sat on top of the sliced avocados slid right off and onto the table, so a fork and knife is recommended.

We always have to stop at Holoholo for one breakfast. They have HUGE portions - each dish could be…read moresplit amongst two people. My dad got the loco moco which he loves. I got the kalua pork hash which I think is a perfect way to get more kalua pork in your diet. And we split the banana macadamia nut pancakes - these things are thique, let me tell you! Everything was delicious. Service was welcoming and fast! We were in and out in about an hour. We sat in the shaded area with a view of the pool which was lovely. There is dedicated parking for people eating at Holoholo which is always appreciated. Thanks for yet another great breakfast!

Excellent food and wine, great vibes, prompt and friendly service…read more Not shown in our photos was the French onion soup, which was probably the best I've ever had! We're just sad that we didn't discover The Tasting Room until our final night in Kauai! We highly recommend, and we'll definitely be back on our next trip to Kauai!

Another lovely dinner here. I had a good dirty martini and husband had the last of the Kauai Beer…read more Company Tropical Armadillo (they have unfortunately closed) Then we shared a Smoked Beet Salad, which is wonderful. Then rack of lamb, perfectly cooked, juicy and tasty! Came with polenta and really good carrots. A lovely WA cab complemented it. We broke down and ordered Dulce de Leche Panna Cotta, -fabulous! Service great as always!

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!