Fodor's Expert Review Kalapawai Cafe & Deli
This one-stop Mediterranean-leaning café, wine bar, bakery, and gourmet deli is the creation of the Dymond family, two generations of restaurateurs who have shaken up the Windward food scene with their signature green-and-white market and café. Come in on your way to the beach for a cup of coffee and bagel, and stop back for a gourmet pizza or bruschetta (how does eggplant confit, sweet peppers, honey, and goat cheese sound?) for lunch or a candlelit dinner at night. Although the breakfast and lunch menus are a mix of sandwiches, salads, and creative offerings from the takeout case, the place transforms at night. Table service, candles, and a frequently changing menu showcases offerings like duck ragout with dried cherries and mushrooms, or freshly grilled fish with lemongrass risotto and red curry aioli. If you're staying in a Kailua vacation rental, this is the best place around to pick up prepared foods such as stuffed grape leaves and crab cakes to take home.
Quick Facts
- Candlelight dinners and signature dishes by night
- Good coffee and sandwiches by day
- Impressive wine list for such a small spot