Kauai is situated in the Central Pacific as part of the Hawaiian Islands. Visitors to this beautiful destination spend days splashing in the clear blue water, relaxing on sandy beaches, hiking scenic trails, and, of course, sampling local food. If you’re looking for restaurants near your Kauai vacation rental that will please even the pickiest eaters, check out the top nine kid-friendly restaurants in the area.
1. Pink’s Creamery – Hanalei
With a menu of specialty grilled cheese sandwiches, ice cream, smoothies, and tropical ice, it’s hard to go wrong taking your kids to Pink’s Creamery. Adults and kids alike love the Hawaiian grilled cheese with pork and pineapple. Finish your meal with a frozen dessert; sample from the wide variety of ice cream flavors, including Kona mud pie, Hanalei sunrise, or aloha cherry truffle, or give Pink’s famous date shakes a try. Pink’s Creamery also offers dairy-free gelato for those with dietary restrictions.
2. Porky’s – Waimea
For some fresh sausage or tasty pulled pork, check out Porky’s during your trip to Kauai. This walk-up food truck is situated off the main street in Waimea. Adults in your family can indulge in pineapple pork sausage topped with fried onions, pulled pork, and Porky’s sweet barbecue sauce while the kids feast on a hot dog. Enjoy your meal at one of the picnic benches under the shade of a canopy.
3. Kalaheo Cafe and Coffee Company – Kalaheo
Whether you’re looking for a meal or just a cup of coffee, visit Kalaheo Cafe and Coffee Company. Order up a Kauai coffee with a Bonzo burrito or a double bagel benny for breakfast while the kids have the house-made cinnamon bread French toast. Lunch and dinner choices abound here too, from deli sandwiches and burgers to New York strip and Thai veggie curry. Make sure to check the specials board, which features unique offerings that showcase the chef’s signature flair. When you return home, check out Kalaheo’s online coffee store to have some of the terrific coffees shipped directly to you.
4. Lappert’s – Koloa
Grab an ice cream cone for a midday treat or thrill your kids and eat dessert for dinner at Lappert’s. Handmade in small batches, the premium ice cream offered here is arguably some of the best on the island. Flavors to sample include caramel coconut macadamia nut, Kauai pie, Kona lava java, and Mauna Kea’s secret. Ask for a scoop in a homemade waffle cone, or order it in a bowl with a freshly baked cookie.
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5. Street Burger – Kapaa
Fulfill your burger cravings at Street Burger. The burgers here are made from locally sourced grass-fed beef and garnished with a variety of delicious toppings. Adventurous eaters love the Wailua, topped with crispy spam, jalapeño pineapple marmalade, kabayaki glaze, and spinach, while kids play it safe with a traditional hamburger or cheeseburger and fries. A veggie patty is also available for the vegetarians in your family.
6. JoJo’s Shave Ice – Waimea and Hanalei
When the kids are ready for an afternoon snack, take them to JoJo’s Shave Ice for an amazing Hawaiian experience. Crafted from fluffy shaved ice topped with homemade syrup flavors, this treat boasts unique flavors and generous helpings. Try single flavors that include boysenberry, cappuccino, guava punch, pink bubblegum, or vanilla, or select one of the many flavor combinations on the menu, including banana split, tropical breeze, or root beer float. Locations in both Waimea and Hanalei offer convenient access on both sides of the island.
7. Sleeping Giant Grill – Kapaa
With its relaxed setting, Sleeping Giant Grill is an ideal spot to sit down for lunch or dinner with your kids. Adults and children alike love the fish or chicken tacos and the freshly made burritos offered here. Sleeping Giant Grill also offers vegetarian options and a kid’s menu for ages 12 and under. Finish off your meal on a sweet note with a slice of mango cheesecake.
8. Keoki’s Paradise – Koloa
If you want your meal served in a gorgeous setting, Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa is a must-visit on your vacation. The open-air dining atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and live entertainment in the evenings, including some hula shows, keeps the kids’ attention while waiting for their food. Adults love the chef’s fresh fish duo or the kalo-crusted ahi, while kids can choose from their own menu options, such as cheeseburger sliders, top sirloin steak, or fish and chips. Each meal features the freshest ingredients possible; the fish is caught fresh in Hawaii, pork and chicken are from local farms, and the produce is locally sourced.
9. Pizzetta – Koloa
When the kids want pizza, give them pizza at Pizzetta in Koloa. Start your dinner off with an order of carbonara mac and cheese, bruschetta, or garlic breadsticks. Order a Hawaiian pizza for a taste of the islands, or go for a meat lover’s, barbecue chicken, or veggie option. If some of your family isn’t into pizza for dinner, they can choose from other offerings, including chicken parmigiana, seafood fettuccine, or grilled ono. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.
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