Traditional Hawaiian food and local favorites in Kōloa Town

Local Flavors of Old Kōloa Town

Taste the multicultural soul of Kauaʻi's plantation heritage

Written by a Local Kauaʻi Expert

Local Flavors: The Tastes of Plantation History

The food in Kōloa is more than just sustenance. It's a direct link to the town's multicultural past. Here are the essential tastes you can't miss.

My tūtū kāne (grandfather) used to say that you could taste the whole world in a single plate lunch. He was talking about the legacy of the people who came to Kōloa, each group bringing their culture, food, and traditions.

The Essential Lunch Stop: Kōloa Fish Market

Don't be fooled by the simple, unassuming storefront on Kōloa Road. The Kōloa Fish Market is a local institution, family-owned and operated for over 25 years and widely considered to have the best poke on Kauaʻi. It's a take-out window, not a sit-down restaurant, and it's where you'll find fishermen, construction workers, and visitors all patiently waiting in line for a taste of the freshest fish on the island.

My Insider Tip: First, bring cash. They don't accept cards. Second, don't be intimidated by the line—it moves quickly. You absolutely cannot go wrong with their poke. My personal favorite is the creamy Avocado Ahi Poke, but the Shoyu Ahi and Spicy Ahi are classics for a reason. They also serve hearty plate lunches like Kalua Pig and Shoyu Chicken. Grab a poke bowl, find a shady spot under the monkeypod trees, and enjoy one of the most authentic flavors of Kauaʻi.

The Sweetest Story: Lappert's Hawaii Ice Cream

For dessert, there is only one place to go. Lappert's Hawaii is not just an ice cream shop. It's a Kauaʻi legend. The story begins with its founder, Walter Lappert, a fascinating character who was born in Austria, served in the French Army in WWII, spoke eight languages, and distilled liquor in South America before opening restaurants in California. At age 61, he decided to retire to Kauaʻi. Finding the local dessert scene lacking, he invested his life savings and, on December 21, 1983, created his first batch of "super-premium" ice cream. He became a beloved local figure, the bearded "Hanapepe Ice Cream Man," and his rich, tropical-flavored ice cream became a sensation.

My Must-Try Flavor: You haven't truly experienced Lappert's until you've had the Kauai Pie. It's a decadent scoop of Kona coffee ice cream loaded with Hawaiian macadamia nuts, toasted coconut, and rich chocolate fudge. It is the taste of Kauaʻi in a cone, a signature flavor since the very beginning.

🍔 Sueoka Store & Snack Shop

This is the true heart of the community. Mankichi Sueoka, a Japanese immigrant, first opened his store in the Kōloa Plantation's "Japanese Camp" in 1918. In 1933, the store moved to its current location on Kōloa Road, and it has been run by the Sueoka family ever since.

Don't Miss: Classic teriyaki burgers, and on Friday afternoons, fresh hot malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts).

🍧 The Fresh Shave

For a modern twist on a classic Hawaiian treat, head to The Fresh Shave in the Waikomo Courtyard. Started out of a vintage trailer, they are known for their handcrafted shave ice made with all-natural, locally sourced fruit syrups—no artificial stuff here.

Try This: "The Whiskers" (mint and lime) for something refreshing. They even have a secret menu.

🍕 Kōloa Pizza Kitchen + Bar

For a sit-down meal, Kōloa Pizza Kitchen + Bar serves great pizza in the historic Asahi Soda Building. Perfect for families or groups looking for a casual dining experience with a local touch.

🍜 Koloa Thai Bistro

Koloa Thai Bistro offers excellent Thai food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and live music on Wednesdays. A great spot for dinner with authentic flavors and island atmosphere.

🍷 The Tasting Room

For a more upscale evening of wine and tapas, my wife and I love The Tasting Room, a family-run spot next to the long-standing Wine Shop. Perfect for a romantic date night or a relaxing evening after exploring the town.