Might just be a hidden gem in Poipu! This place should be packed. After a full week of incredible breakfast places, this place just took first! Outstanding! To date this is the best breakfast on Kaua'i! Solid portions of amazingly prepared food. If you're a breakfast lover this place is a MUST STOP!! $20-$30 unless you enjoy a great Mimosa, they're worth it though
Overview
If you're ever in the beautiful town of Koloa, HI, and craving a laid-back spot to enjoy good food and a lively atmosphere, Kalapaki Joe's Poipu is the place to be. Located at 1941 Poipu Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, this casual restaurant has become a local favorite, drawing in both tourists and residents alike with its welcoming vibe and delicious menu offerings.
Walking into Kalapaki Joe’s, you’re immediately greeted by the warm island spirit. The décor is a mix of beachy vibes and cozy comfort, with a spacious dining area that perfectly balances island style with a feeling of home. The layout is relaxed, giving diners plenty of room to sit back, enjoy a drink, and take in the surrounding views of the vibrant town. It's a fantastic spot for both a casual meal with friends or a family dinner after a day of sightseeing around Poipu.
Now, let’s talk about the food. Kalapaki Joe's Poipu serves up an impressive menu, offering a variety of dishes that cater to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, a juicy burger, or something a little lighter like a salad or tacos, there’s something for everyone. One of the standout items on their menu is the fish tacos - fresh, flavorful, and served with just the right amount of zing from the tangy sauce. If you’re a fan of seafood, the ahi poke bowl is another popular choice, loaded with fresh tuna, avocado, and a savory dressing that’s just the right balance of sweet and salty.
For those who prefer hearty meals, you can't go wrong with their burger options. The Kalapaki Burger is a fan favorite, with a juicy patty, melted cheese, and a crispy side of fries. The portion sizes here are generous, so you’ll definitely leave satisfied.
The drink menu is equally impressive, with a wide variety of tropical cocktails, beers, and wines. The Mai Tai is a classic choice, perfect for sipping while enjoying the breezy Hawaiian weather. And if you're a fan of craft beer, you'll be pleased to find a selection of local brews on tap. Whether you're here for lunch, dinner, or just a drink to unwind, the drink selection complements the food beautifully.
What really sets Kalapaki Joe’s apart is the friendly service. The staff is known for their warm hospitality, always eager to make sure you have everything you need. They’re quick with recommendations and make the experience feel personalized. It’s one of those places where you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time visiting.
The atmosphere at Kalapaki Joe's is another reason it stands out. Whether you’re eating inside the airy dining room or enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor patio, the place has a relaxed, beachy charm that reflects the spirit of the island. Live music is a common occurrence in the evenings, adding to the laid-back yet lively atmosphere. This is definitely a spot where you can unwind, savor great food, and enjoy the company of those around you.
Kalapaki Joe’s Poipu also caters to families, making it a great place for parents looking for a stress-free meal with kids. The menu has kid-friendly options, and the casual atmosphere means that kids can be themselves without any worries about formal dining rules. It’s a great balance of delicious food and a fun, relaxed environment.
The location is another key selling point. Situated in Poipu, it’s an ideal spot for both locals and tourists exploring the south side of Kauai. Whether you're heading to the beach or taking a break from hiking the nearby trails, Kalapaki Joe’s is a perfect place to refuel. Its proximity to popular attractions and resorts in the area makes it easy to swing by after a day of adventure.
Overall, Kalapaki Joe's Poipu is a top-notch spot to enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to enjoy the laid-back island life, all while indulging in flavorful meals. Whether you're here for a casual meal with friends or a family dinner, Kalapaki Joe’s is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting to come back for more.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Live music ✓ Serves local specialty ✓ SportPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1423 reviews
Stopped by Kalapaki Joe’s while in Kauai and had the loco moco — it was fantastic. The portion was generous, the flavors were spot on, and the gravy tied everything together perfectly. Great spot to relax, enjoy good food, and soak in the island vibe. Friendly service and a fun atmosphere made it even better. Would definitely come back!
We came here for happy hour, for the deal on appetizers and we were not dissapointed. You have to order two drinks (per person - does NOT have to be alcohol to get the deal) the wings were good - but the fish tacos were even better. As well as the wontons we tried. Very good flavor, the staff was super nice, and you can see the beach! There was some awesome live music! The noise level here is pretty loud.
This place was recommended to us by locals, and they were definitely not wrong. We made it just in time for happy hour for great food and drink at a better price! It was all good, but that pork belly was super tasty.
Great spot nearby for good views and good company. Live music makes everything better, and the live music was great! We've been told breakfast here is great. Dinner was okay, but not my favorite I've had on the island. It fed us. The drinks were actually good, but not strong by any means, and too expensive to drink multiple to get the buzz if you're looking for a buzz, however there are great options for beer, and that we can keep up with. My brother in law ordered the reuben and said it was the best he had ever had, so I probably just ordered the wrong thing for dinner. I'd like to do breakfast here sometime though!
We liked our meal so much the first night we came back another! The daily happy hour is from 3-6, and the $6.99 cocktails (only those listed on the happy hour menu) were a real draw. Be aware There’s a 2-drink minimum during happy hour. We loved the Coconut Shrimp — much better than the ones at Brennecke’s — and during Happy Hour, they are $2 each. Fish tacos are $5 each. Our table was right by the open window and lovely views of the nearby mountains and coastline. Cici was our most excellent server.
We showed up as a group of 9, and our service was excellent!! This was by far the best service we have had on the island so far! The prices were incredibly reasonable, the food was great! Happy hour is a must see. But it was really the service that really shined!