I'm going to Kauai next week (woo hoo!) and I was wondering if it was necessary to make restaurant reservations prior to my trip. Do I have to make reservations at all? Any restaurant recommendations would be welcome. We're staying on the south shore, but we don't mind driving.

Thanks

Its a good idea to make reservations in the late afternoon hours, especially on the weekends. Top eateries in Poipu are Roys in the poipu shopping village and the Beach house restaurant. Beach house is very popular during sunset, because it sits right on the ocean. The house of seafood is also good. have fun!

I agree with Koa. We were in Kauai last month and ate at both. Both The Beach House and Roy's are very good. The Beach House probably gets the nod for the sunset. Roy's is in a small shopping center. We were lucky to get a reservation at the Beach House. We called for a reservation the same day & were lucky that there was a cancellation. One note on The Beach House. They want a credit card when you make the reservation and charge $35 p.p. if you are a no show.

A Pacific Cafe in (or near) Koloa was also very good. Like Roy's it is in a shopping center, so there is no view, but the food makes up for it.

Duke's Canoe Club next to the Marriott was average. Reservations there are not essential, but desirable. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat there.

Kathleen, better safe than sorry is a good rule to remember. You don't want to miss out because you didn't think you needed to make a reservation. Check on a Pacific Cafe; I've heard some/all locations may be closed. Request a good table; they sat us in a corner by the kitchen and I nearly fainted from the heat. AVOID House of Seafood. All the books say it s*c*k* big time.

Hi, Kathleen!
We just got back from Kauai a couple of weeks ago. Jealous that I'm done and you're trip is still to come.

Anyway, we stayed at the Hyatt, and asked the concierge to make reservations for us for the whole week, before we got there. While I definitely recommend reservations, it was not necessary to make them so far in advance. Most restaurants, one day in advance suffices, although you may not get the exact time you want at that point. Two or three days should get you whatever you want.

As to recommendations, Roys, without question. Fantastic. Also, Duke's Canoe Club at the Marriott, Gaylord's (another definite must), Pomodoro's, either of the two fancy restaurants at the Hyatt are very good, but very pricey. There are a few for you.

Have a great time!