Kauai South Shore - Poipu

Island of Kauai

Where to Eat

Pizzetta, Old Koloa Town, Koloa, 808-742 8881, www.pizzettarestaurant.com. Open daily from 11 am-10 pm. This is the first Pizzetta on Kaua`i (the second one is in Kapa`a). Over the years, Pizzetta has established a reputation for having the best pizza in the area. The menu is standard Italian: pizza, pastas, subs, panini, salads and dishes such as eggplant parmesan and chicken marsala. My favorite is the meatball sub. There are drink specials served daily from 3 to 6 pm. The only possible drawback is that Pizzetta can be packed at dinner time. If that’s the case, they can deliver to Po`ipu, Omao, Kalaheo and Lawai. $15-$35.

Puka Dog, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-6044, www.pukadog.com. Open Monday-Saturday from 10 am-6 pm. I know what you might be thinking. Seven dollars for a hot dog? Are you kidding me? I was every bit the skeptic myself upon hearing about these ridiculously expensive wieners. But I have to admit I was impressed. The difference is that they use fresh tropical fruit to create a unique hot dog. You can get mango relish, pineapple relish, even coconut relish with your dog. They even serve vegetarian hot dogs. You can get the standard ketchup and mustard and the hot dog will still be good, but I recommend you go for the mango relish. That alone is worth the money. Under $15.

Po`ipu Tropical Burgers, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-1808. Open daily from 6:30 am-9:30 pm. Reservations required for parties six or more. Po`ipu Tropical Burgers is run by the same folks who own Tropical Burgers & More in Kapa`a. I was not optimistic, since my experiences at Tropical Burgers & More were not pleasant. I don’t know if it’s because my expectations were low, but I was pleasantly surprised by the service. The burgers were much better here than at the Kapa`a branch. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. The breakfast menu consists of the standard eggs and waffles. Po`ipu Tropical Burgers also features live Hawaiin music from 6:30 to 8 pm on Sundays. Under $15-$35.

Brick Oven Pizza, Kaumualii Highway, Kalaheo, 808-332-8561. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 am-10 pm. I really like the atmosphere of Brick Oven Pizza. It’s large, old and very open, with high ceilings. The tables have checkered tablecloths. Brick Oven Pizza does make decent pizza, but you can get better pizza elsewhere. I have tried the Italian sausage sandwich. They make their own sausage, and I do give them credit for trying, it’s rather bland. Like ground pork with no spices whatsoever. The service wasn’t terribly impressive. Under $15-$35.

Roy’s Po`ipu Bar & Grill, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-5000, www.roysrestaurant.com. Open daily from 5:30-9:30 pm. Roy’s has long had a reputation throughout the state as one of the top fine-dining establishments. Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian fusion cuisine really put the restaurant on the map. He started with his restaurant on Oahu, then quickly expanded to the neighbor islands and places like Philadelphia. Yes, even Philly can use a little Hawaiian fusion. Even though the location could be better (fine dining in a strip mall?), the food and service are still outstanding. The menu changes regularly, but will feature such classics as
macadamia nut mahi mahi and, for dessert, you must have Roy’s Chocolate Soufflé. $50+.

e.b.’s Eats, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-1979. Open Monday-Saturday from 8 am-5 pm. e.b.’s Eats is a relatively new restaurant that has taken Kaua`i by storm. The restaurant initially opened in Lihu`e, where it was a huge success. So much so that e.b.’s moved to its new location in Po`ipu Shopping Village. It’s a breakfast and lunch spot that offers a variety of coffees and baked goods. Breakfast can be as simple as a tasty English muffin breakfast sandwich or get something a little heavier like the mushroom meatloaf locomoco. Breakfast is served until 11 am. Then it’s time for lunch. e.b.’s offers delicious salads, sandwiches, quiche (ask about the flavor of the day) or macaroni dishes. Under $15-$35.

Lappert’s Ice Cream, Old Koloa Town, Koloa, 808-742-1272. Open daily from 10 am-9 pm. Here’s another location for Lappert’s ice cream. The ice cream is locally made, but that really doesn’t justify the price. I never did understand what the fuss is about. It’s mediocre, not great. Menu items include a variety of Hawaii-themed ice cream, coffee, cookies and brownies. Other locations are in Coconut Marketplace in Kapa`a, Princeville Shopping Center in Princeville and in Hanapepe. Under $15.

Taqueria Norteños, Po`ipu Plaza, 2827A Po`ipu Road, Po`ipu, 808-742-7222. Open every day except Wednesday from 11 am-9 pm. This hole in the wall is a great find. Cheap take-out Mexican food is perfect if you’re on your way to the beach or returning to your condo from a long day out on the road. Did I mention cheap? All entrées are priced under $5. How can you beat that? The portions are huge and tasty. The cuisine is from the Sonara region in Northern Mexico. It can be hard to find this little take-out window. It’s in Po`ipu Plaza, right next to Outfitters Kaua`i. Pick something up when you return your kayak. Under $15.

Kalaheo Coffee Co. & Café, 2-2560 Kaumualii Highway, Kalaheo, 808-332-5858. Open daily for breakfast and lunch 6:30 am-2:30 pm. Dinner is served Wednesday-Saturday from 5:30. Located directly across from Brick Oven Pizza, this charming spot is a wonderful place to get breakfast. The café’s location makes it perfect if you’re on your way toWaimea Canyon. Breakfast serves up fantastic omelets, pancakes and Sweetbread French Toast. Lunch is pretty much made up of hot and cold sandwiches and salads. Coffee drinks are served all day. Parking can be a challenge here, especially in the morning. It can get crowded. Under $15-$35.

Casablanca, at Kiahuna Swim & Tennis Club, Po`ipu, 808-742-2929. Open Monday-Saturday 7:30 am-10 pm; Sunday 8 am-6 pm. This outdoor restaurant has an elegant, yet casual atmosphere. The view from the restaurant overlooks the tennis courts and garden area, which makes it fun to watch tennis players both good and bad go at it. On the menu you’ll find healthy fare with Mediterranean/Italian influences. A few things on the menu that you might try are gazpacho and, for dinner, the lamb tangine is wonderful. Casablanca has belly dancing on Thursday nights to add to the Mediterranean flair. $15-$35.

Joe’s on the Green, at Kiahuna Golf Course, 808-742-9696. Open daily for breakfast and lunch 7 am-2:30 pm; Happy Hour 3-5:30 pm; dinner Wednesday and Thursday 5:30-8:30 pm. Reservations recommended for dinner. After a hard round of golf, you’re going to want to take a break and grab a bite to eat. Joe’s is a casual stop for breakfast or lunch. Breakfast is good, with a standard (eggs, pancakes, etc.) menu that’s done right. For lunch, Joe’s serves up burgers, salads and sandwiches. Try the Asian barbecue ribs. The prices are right. Even if you’re not a golf fan, Joe’s is worth the stop. The service is excellent and the atmosphere is casual as you overlook Kiahuna Golf Course. Breakfast and lunch under $15, dinner $35-$50.

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler, 2100 Hoone Road, Po`ipu Beach, 888-384-8810, 808-742-7588, www.brenneckes.com. Open daily 11 am-10 pm. Reservations recommended for dinner. Brennecke’s is best known for two things. First, for its unbelievable ocean view. If you get a table on the second floor lanai, you’ll overlook Po`ipu Beach Park. It’s also known for
its food. The food, however, could be better. It’s a bit overpriced (you don’t expect that ocean view to be free, do you?), and the quality is just mediocre. Lunch is much better, where you can get a prime rib sandwich or fish tacos. Brennecke’s is a great place to come for a drink. Looking down on the beach makes for great people watching. Lunch $15-$35, dinner $35-$50.

Brennecke’s Deli, 2100 Hoone Road, Po`ipu Beach, 808-742-1582, www.brenneckes.com. Open daily 8 am-8 pm. Here’s the most convenient place to pick up something if you’re planning on spending the day at Po`ipu Beach. Brennecke’s Deli also has shave ice, which makes a nice treat for the kids. They serve up made-to-order sandwiches. You can eat there, as they have picnic tables and benches set up or you can take your lunch to go. For added convenience, you can pre-order by phone and pick it up. They offer daily picnic packages, so be sure to ask. Speaking of convenience, there’s a small store that carries film, batteries, beach equipment and everything else you’d need for your day at the beach. Under $15.

Plantation Gardens Restaurant&Bar, 2253 Po`ipu Road, Po`ipu, 877-745-2824, 808-742-2121. Open for cocktails at 5 pm; dinner from 5:30 pm. Reservations recommended. Simple and elegant atmosphere set in an old plantation manager’s estate. The interior is made of cherry wood floors, bamboo ceiling fans, in an open atmosphere. Be sure to check out the koa wood bar. It’s beautiful. You’re surrounded by the Moir Gardens. You can dine inside or on the lanai and feast on a more modern version of local cuisine. Traditional local food has a new twist with menu items like Seafood Laulau and Island Stir-fry. For dessert, try the Lilikoi Cheesecake or the Flourless Chocolate Cake. $35-$50.

Keoki’s Paradise, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-7535, www.keokisparadise.com. Open for dinner from 5 to 10 pm. Keoki’s Paradise is not hard to find. Just follow the trail of tiki torches to the restaurant. The tropical theme is evident throughout the restaurant with bamboo, streams, waterfalls and a thatched awning down to the staff’s aloha shirts. The menu consists of mostly fish, but does have something for everyone. Carnivores will enjoy the Koloa Ribs or the Coconut Crusted Chicken. Entrées come with salad and bread, but don’t fill up too much. You’re going to want to save some room for Kimo’s Hula Pie. The food is very good, although a little pricey. The Bamboo Grill is a bar in the restaurant, open from 11 am to 11 pm, with Hawaiian music on Thursday and Friday nights and Sunday afternoon. $15-$35.

Beach House Restaurant, 5022 Lawa`i Road, Po`ipu, 808-742-1424, www.the-beach-house.com. Open for cocktails at 5 pm; dinner 5:30-9 pm. Reservations highly recommended. The Beach House Restaurant has a reputation as one of the most romantic restaurants in the world. Readers from various publications statewide vote the Beach House the best restaurant on Kaua`i. It’s very hard to disagree. Fine art adorns the walls, the sunsets are fabulous and the food is wonderful. The service is always firstrate. Back to the food, the menu is extensive, with fish and steak options. Your meal is artfully presented and excellent. Try to make reservations for a window seat. It will make your experience at The Beach House absolutely perfect. You must have the Molten Chocolate Desire for dessert. It’s outrageous! $35-$50.

Dondero’s Italian Restaurant, Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort & Spa, 808-240-6456, Serving dinner Tuesday-Saturday from 6 pm-10 pm. Reservations highly recommended. There’s something about dining at the Grand Hyatt that makes any meal worthwhile. The setting here is romantic and elegant. You’re under the stars overlooking Shipwreck Beach. The food and service are first-rate. The menu is Northern Italian, with pastas, lamb, osso bucco and beef dishes. The chocolate crême brulée is something to remember. Overall, Dondero’s provides an unforgettable dining experience. If you want privacy, there’s a private dining room for parties of up to 12 people. $35-$50.

Ilima Terrace Restaurant, at Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort & Spa, 808-240-6456. Open for breakfast and lunch 6 am-2 pm. Ilima Terrace offers a breakfast buffet every morning that’s overpriced. Lunch is better, with sandwiches, burgers, salads and pizzas. However, this is a charming place
to enjoy Sunday brunch. The menu is extensive and features made-to-order omelettes, quiche and crêpes. The Sunday Brunch is excellent and worth the money. You’re in the same area as Tidepools, so the atmosphere is charming and you are seated overlooking the koi pond. Breakfast $15-$35, lunch $35-$50, Sunday brunch $15-$35.

Tidepools Seafood & Steak, at Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa, 808-240-6456. Open for cocktails starting at 5:30; dinner 6-10 pm. If you don’t want the romance of Dondero’s or you just want to be somewhere to relax and enjoy pupus and drinks, Tidepools is the place to go. The atmosphere is charming. It’s a series of thatched huts on a koi pond. Tidepools is surrounded by waterfalls. The tables are spaced at a distance, giving you a bit more privacy. The Mango Lobster and Crab Cake is delightful and the grilled mahi-mahi is fantastic. Tidepools also serves an excellent prime-rib. $50+.

Casa di Amici, 2301 Nalo Road, Po`ipu, 808-742-1555. Open daily for dinner from 6 pm. Reservations recommended. If you plan to venture to Casa di Amici, bring your cell phone. The restaurant is hard to find above Po`ipu Beach. But be sure not to miss this wonderful Italian restaurant with al fresco dining. The cuisine is a fusion of Italian with French influence. The result is excellent quality and highly creative. On the menu you’ll find pork loin saltimbocca, mahoganyglazed salmon, panko-crusted tiger prawns, and paella prawn risotto. $35-$50.

Tomkats Grille, 5402 Koloa Road, Koloa, 808-742-8887. Open 7 am-10 pm; late night cocktails from 10 pm to last call. No, this place wasn’t named after the pairing of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. It is the home of a really fun establishment. It’s a lively atmosphere that’s laid back. It’s one of the few places in the Po`ipu area that has a true local feel to it. The food is good. It’s standard American: burgers, sandwiches and the like. There are over two dozen beers on tap. Be aware that you may find a cat or two running around or sleeping in a chair. If you’re allergic to cats, this may pose a problem. $15-$35.

Kalaheo Steak House, Papalina Road, Kalaheo, 808-332-9780. Open daily from 6-10 pm. Kalaheo Steak House offers tasty steaks that are reasonably priced. The atmosphere is casual and informal. It has a rustic feel with pine walls and black leather booths. They serve steaks, ribs, chicken and seafood. It’s a very popular place with locals because the food is good, the portions are large and it’s reasonably priced. It’s one of the better deals in the area. They do not take reservations, so you will need to get to the restaurant early to secure a table. $15-$35.

Pomodoro Ristorante Italiano, Rainbow Plaza, Kalaheo , 808-332-5945. Open for dinner Monday-Saturday 5:30 pm- 9:30 pm. Reservations recommended. When you drive though Kalaheo, you wouldn’t think that there’s a good Italian Restaurant anywhere nearby. Believe it or not, one does exist. Pomodoro Ristorante is a family-owned restaurant with an intimate, casual atmosphere. There are plenty of pastas on the menu to choose from. They also have other traditional Italian dishes like chicken parmesan. The chicken saltimbocca is flavored just right with sage, cheese and prosciutto. The house specialty is lasagna, which is served as a huge portion. I was pleasantly surprised by the food and the service here. $15-$35.

Po`ipu Beach Broiler, 1941 Po`ipu Road, Po`ipu, 808-742-6433. Lunch 11:30-3 pm; dinner 5-10 pm; Happy Hour 2-5 pm daily. Po`ipu Beach Broiler has a very open and casual atmosphere. The lunch menu has sandwiches, salads and burgers. Dinner features seafood and steaks. The atmosphere is pleasant and service is good. Dinner seems overpriced, however. You’re better off coming here for lunch or for a drink during Happy Hour. $35-$50.

Po`ipu Bay Bar & Grill, 808-240-6456. Open Monday-Saturday for breakfast and lunch from 7 am-2:30 pm; Sunday 7:30 am-2:30 pm; cocktails 10:30-5 pm daily. The restaurant overlooks the 18th hole of Po`ipu Bay Golf Course. There is indoor seating, as well as an open-air courtyard with spectacular mountain views. The menu features standard breakfast items and creative dishes like Dungeness Crab Hash. For lunch, PBGB’s serves classics like Ahi Caesar Salad or their signature Crab Melt. $15-$35.

Pattaya Asian Café, Po`ipu Shopping Village, Po`ipu, 808-742-8818. Open Monday-Saturday 11:30 am-2:30 pm; dinner every evening from 5-9:30 pm. Pattaya has an extensive menu that features Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisines. The meals are moderately priced and the service is good. They have a lot of good curries on the menu. I also enjoyed their Pad Thai. $15-$35.

Shells Restaurant, Sheraton Kaua`i Resort, 808-742-1661. Open daily for breakfast 6:30-10:30 am and dinner 6-9:30 pm. Reservations recommended. Shells has oceanfront dining with an outdoor lanai, as well as a spacious dining room with shell chandeliers. If you can, get an outdoor seat because the view is unbelievable. They serve a breakfast buffet in the morning for $20 per person or you can order à la carte. For dinner, there are plenty of fresh seafood dishes, plus steak and pasta. Breakfast $15-$35, dinner $50+.

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