1. Puka Dog
When I'm in Kauai, I always make sure to hit up Puka Dog, which used to be located in the Poipu Shopping Village on the south side of the island, but has since moved to right across the street from one of the island's best beaches: Poipu Beach. Their Hawaiian-style hot dogs feature a polish or veggie sausage in a fresh-baked Hawaiian sweet bread bun called a "puka" for the hole that's baked in from one side. You can choose from a variety of sauces and relishes to top your puka dog. I like mine with Auntie Lilikoi's Hawaiian mustard, mango relish, and habanero garlic lemon sauce for a perfect combination of spicy and sweet. Be sure to also get their fresh-squeezed lemonade, which is perfect for washing down your puka dog.
2. Wishing Well Shave Ice
Hawaii is hot and humid all year round and Hawaiian shave ice is the perfect treat to cool you down on a hot day. You can find Hawaiian shave ice spots all over the island, but if you're in Hanalei, then I'd recommend Wishing Well Shave Ice. The shave ice served up from this charming little food truck in town is yummy and refreshing. They also sell super cute merchandise, such as shirts and mugs, if you're looking for a non-generic souvenir.
3. Chicken in a Barrel
Locals and tourists alike flock to Chicken in a Barrel for some delicious smoked barbecue. They offer a variety of smoked bbq meats as well as burgers, tacos, burritos, and salads. Since I like to try a little of everything, I ordered the sampler plate with bbq chicken, beef, pork and ribs. The meat was tender and tasty, and the portions are big enough to share. They have four locations in Kauai - one in Hanalei, two in Kapaa, and one in Waimea - so you'll be able to find one near you.
4. Hanalei Bread Company
If you're staying on the north side of the island, Hanalei Bread Company is the perfect place to start your day. My favorite is the Brekkie Sandwich with an iced latte. HBC is popular with both locals and tourists, so the line can get a little long during breakfast and brunch. But if you're not getting a specialty coffee or tea, keep in mind there's a food-only line that tends to be shorter.
I like to sit at the picnic tables on the premises and people watch folks coming and going on Kuhio Highway, but you're only a short 5 minute walk to Waioli Beach Park and Hanalei Beach.
If somehow you still have room for dessert, you're right across the street from #2 on my list, Wishing Well.
5. Tahiti Nui
Kauai isn't exactly known for its nightlife, but if you want some live music and an excellent mai tai, Tahiti Nui is for you. Located about a 10 minute drive from the Princeville resorts, this spot caters mostly to tourists.
Like I said, Kauai doesn't have much of a nightlife scene: Tahiti Nui closes at 9pm and the live music starts at 6:30pm, but it packs in a ton of fun in those 2 and a half hours.
Every time I go here I end up ordering the same thing: a mainland pizza, ahi poke chips, and way too many mai tais.
One note: you'll likely be drinking at Tahiti Nui and there aren't many taxis available at 9pm, so plan accordingly. If you're a tourist, my advice is to coordinate with your hotel and have them send a cab to pick you up.
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