Where to Eat and Drink on Kauai's North Shore

When you think of Hawaii, your mind might not immediately go to food. You might be picturing white sand beaches, lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, or endless sunshine. Which is fair.

But you should also think of cool mac salad, fresh acai bowls, steaming lunch plates, garlicky shrimp, and of course, endless mai tai’s.

Hawaii has always had a special place in my heart, but I do have a favourite child when it comes to the islands. And it’s Kauai.

Kauai, with its lush landscapes, laid-back rhythm, and tight-knit local community, offers some of the most soul-nourishing meals you’ll ever eat.

The North Shore of the island is where Dean and I like to call home once a year. It’s quieter, less touristy, and feels more authentically Hawaii than anywhere else.

Hanalei is the kind of place you daydream about long after you’ve left—surf vibes, mountain views, and a food scene that punches way above its weight.

Here’s where to eat, drink, and tap into the magic of Kauai (from a girl who has eaten her way through the entire North side of the island multiple times).

Hanalei Dolphin

One of the best seafood spots on Kauai’s north shore, the Dolphin is a restaurant, fish market, and sushi lounge. The restaurant is open for pupus (appetizers) and dinner 7 days a week. I highly recommend getting there for happy hour if you’re planning on staying for dinner. The lines grow quickly here and if you show up after the first rush, you might find yourself waiting up to an hour for a table. Mind you, the food is definitely worth the wait. And if you don’t feel like waiting, you can always pick up some fresh fish from the market and grill it up yourself!

Hanalei Poke

After a morning of surfing Hanalei Bay, there is no better place to refuel than Hanalei Poke. Previously a food truck, Hanalei Poke now has a permanent take out shack in the heart of the north shore shopping area. It's a bit tucked away, but you’ll be able to spot it from the line. It’s one of the best places to get poke in this area and I’m not the only one who thinks so! Hanalei Poke was featured on Season 30 of Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives in. The owner Jeremy, prides himself on offering the freshest poke and highest quality ingredients. And his poke bowl creations are incredible. There are classic bowls or more extravagant options with extra toppings. The menu is organized by spice level and no matter what you go with, your mouth will be bursting with flavour. My personal favourite? The Haena Haze.

Kilauea Fish Market

Another great spot for lunch, a short drive from Hanalei Bay, is the Kilauea Fish Market. This is a typical fish market where you can walk in and buy the freshest catch of the day to cook at home. But, during lunch and dinner hours, they also serve delicious plate lunches. Using the day’s catch, so their offerings always change, they offer seafood plate lunches accompanied with rice and macaroni salad. It sounds simple, but when the fish is this good, you feel like you’re eating a Michelin Star meal from a styrofoam container.

Bar Acuda

Spanish tapas, Hawaiian ingredients, and North Shore charm? Yes, please. Bar Acuda has been a Hanalei mainstay for over 15 years and it shows. The small plates are inventive, the atmosphere is warm, and it’s a great spot for a celebratory dinner. It’s not what you’d expect in Kauai—and that’s what makes it special.

The Spot North Shore Kauai

The Spot is a great north shore spot for a pre-surf breakfast. They have creative acai bowls that are piled high with fresh fruit and local honey.

Java Kai

This was my favourite coffee shop on Kauai. The shops have a very “Instagram worthy” aesthetic and their coffee is to die for.

Wishing Well Coffee & Tea

Another great coffee option in Hanalei, set in a retro trailer with smoothies, teas, and fresh-pressed juices. A good stop post-hike or pre-beach. And if you purchase an iced coffee, you get a cute customized mason jar to take home!

Hanalei Bread Company

Organic, locally-sourced, and effortlessly cool. This café and bakery serves excellent breakfast and lunch, along with house-made pastries and great coffee. A solid choice for a hearty breakfast. Get there early because by mid-morning the line will be insane. Another one that’s well worth the wait though.

Wake Up Delicious

Wake Up Delicious is a tiny walk-up joint in Hanalei that serves, hands down, the best chicken katsu plate lunch in the world. I have no other notes. I could eat here everyday. I want to be hooked up to an IV of their mac salad. It’s incredible. Just go.

Avalon Gastropub

A newly opened hidden gem in nearby Kilauea, Avalon offers cozy, elevated dining without any of the fuss. The menu rotates frequently based on what’s fresh—think wild game, local fish, and seasonal produce. The cocktails are top-notch and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Locals and visitors linger here for a reason.

Tahiti Nui

An icon since 1963, this tiki bar is part legend, part dive, and 100% North Shore charm. Known for strong mai tais, nightly live music, and that unmistakable aloha energy. Come for the mac nut-crusted fish or the Tiki Man pizza, stay for the vibes.

Holey Grail Donuts

Skip the massive shaved ice line and instead get your sweet treat here. These taro donuts are fresh, warm, so flavourful, and insanely delicious. Easily the best donuts that I have ever had.

Princeville Wine Market

Not a restaurant, but worth mentioning if you’re staying on the North Shore. They have a surprisingly great selection of wines. It’s not the most affordable place to buy wine, but you’ll find some really, really interesting stuff here. The staff here is also super knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect pairing for your beachside seafood dinner!

That’s the list. For now. Kauai is full of hidden gems and places that feel like secrets, and that’s part of the magic. Eat well, support local, and don’t be afraid to ask a surfer where to get the best fish taco—it’ll never steer you wrong.