A casual little joint on the North Shore serves everyone's favorite beach food — tacos! — and they are excellent. Crispy tostadas piled high with the fresh catch are also totally tubular. Get everything with a side of taro.
5-5088 Kuhio Hwy.
Hanalei, HI 96714
+1-808-827-8226
This former ice-cream food truck operation has expanded into a permanent restaurant serving up some of the island's best Japanese home-cooked favorites —but don't worry, ice cream is still on the menu.
4385 Pahee St.
Lihue, HI 96766
+1-808-554-1698
There are plenty of sugar-laden, overhyped ices around. They are no match for the smooth, cool joy found in a fresh shaved ice with organic fruit juice combos like The Handle Bar (pineapple topped with shredded coconut), The Lip Luggage (chai tea topped with sweet cream), or The Professor (local honey, apples, bananas, and acaÍ).
3540 Koloa Rd.
Kalaheo, HI 96741
+1-808-631-2222
Classy, locally sourced small plates (inspired by France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal) are the name of the game (be sure to order the honeycomb). Make reservations by phone a month in advance.
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy.
Hanalei, HI 96714
+1-808-826-7081
Sushi in a hut inside Inside Kukuiula Market (look for the yellow submarine). You're here, so you better order the gorilla bowl: ahi, ono, salmon, cucumber, and sweet Maui onion.
2827 Poipu Rd.
Koloa, HI 96756
+1-808-639-7219
It's a Mexican fiesta with a Hawaiian flair. This somewhat secret taco spot wraps its spicy steak and fire-roased veggies in handmade, blue corn tortillas — hot and fresh. Tamales are also made daily and should not be missed.
4-971 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapaa, HI 96746
+1-808-823-8226
Delicous, quick-serve burritos are hearty and happening at this notable local hole-in-the-wall. The staff is friendly and the portions are very generous (good thing you spent all morning paddling waves).
2827 Poipu Rd.
Koloa, HI 96756
+1-808-742-9505
It's poke time! Wasabi-infused, Korean-style, eaten with rice or an ocean salad. It's pure Hawaii in your lunch bowl.
5482 Koloa Rd.
Koloa, HI 96756
+1-808-742-6199
Drop by the bright farm stand on the way to Kahili Bay Beach for organic popsicles (mango tango, soursop coconut, piña colada) or fresh smoothies. You can also find them every Saturday at the morning Kilauea Farmers Market.
4320 Wailapa Rd.
Kilauea, HI 96754
+1-808-652-5874