We love ourselves a good date night. Make that a good weekly date night. This post explores our favorite places to dine on Kaua’i when it’s just the two of us. This doesn’t necessarily mean keiki aren’t welcome, because ours have been to nearly every spot on the list. It just means that each of these restaurants is worthy of some adult-only time if you can swing it based on their food, drinks, ambiance, and price points.
South Shore
Located in Koloa town, La Spezia is an Italian restaurant and wine bar that offers a seasonal dinner menu in an intimate setting. Our favorite dishes include the Kale Salad, Tortellini, Short Rib Ravioli, and the Hanger Steak. The veggie sides are also some of our favorite on island, we can’t dine here without snagging at least one order of the brussel sprouts.
The Beach House is exactly where you’d expect it to be, right on the water in Poipu. Pacific Rim food and front row seats to the sunset, what else could you ask for? Our favorite dishes include the Poke Tacos, Szechuan Stir-Fry Green Beans, and the Macadamia Nut Butter Fresh Catch. They also offer some excellent signature cocktails including the No Ka Oi and the Kalaheo Mule. Insider’s tip: Start with happy hour on their oceanfront lawn and then transition to dinner in the restaurant.
Last but not least, the neighborhood favorite we can walk to–Kalaheo Cafe. This is our go-to for last minute dates, family dinners, and takeout. The walls are usually covered in pieces by local artists such as the lovely Robin McCoy and you may choose between indoor seating or patio dining. Our favorite dishes include the Turkey Meatloaf, Grilled Pesto Chicken, and the Prime Rib French Dip. Their dessert case is full of cakes that I often dream about too!
East Side
Hukilau Lanai, located in the Kaua’i Coast Resort is where we usually take special guests. It’s on the fancier side (for Kaua’i) and typically warrants some sort of celebration. Our favorite dishes include the Lobster Curry Bisque, Local Mushroom Meatloaf, and any of their fish specials. The food here is next level delicious and sourced as locally as possible. Reservations highly recommended.
Right in the heart of Kapa’a town, The Local Kauai also prides itself on creative farm to table cuisine. Chef Erin is a true genius in the kitchen and I’d happily trek across the island for her food. Our favorite dishes include the Hawaii Raised Deviled Eggs, Steak Bruschetta, and the Crispy Kale Pizza. Their fresh squeezed cocktails are quite memorable as well, until you have one too many!
North Shore
No visit to Hanalei is complete without tapas at Bar Acuda. Food and drink aside, this spot definitely takes the cake when it comes to most romantic setting. Choose between a social and lively energy indoors, or a quieter and more private ambiance outside on the patio. While the menu regularly changes based on “available ingredients and chef’s creativity,” our favorite dishes include the Local Cucumber Salad, Seared Sea Scallop, and the Pizzetta. Reservations highly recommended.
Anywhere on Island
Not in the mood for a restaurant experience? Why not pack a cooler bag with some drinks and charcuterie fixings then head over to the beach. There’s plenty of spots all over the island where you can find a cozy slice of sand all to yourselves–check out the Maha’ulepu Trail for starters.
