With its location right next to the pool at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai, Mamahune’s is easy to overlook, but that’d be a huge mistake. While this East Side eatery might not look like much, their humble menu items promise to blow your mind at every visit. Whether you zip in for appetizers and drinks or get a whole meal, you’re sure to walk away wholly impressed.
At this outdoor tiki bar, you just have to waltz up to the counter, put in your order, and then find somewhere to relax while taking in the view. They do have quite a limited menu compared to other restaurants, but you’re always sure to spot something that tickles your fancy anyway.
As they diligently create your selected menu items, you can delight in the phenomenal views of Hikinaakala Heiau, Lydgate Beach, and the ocean. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to watch wild roosters stroll across the lawn. While you wait, the chill vibe will make you feel right at home, ensuring you walk away feeling relaxed and rejuvenated at the end of your visit.
Once you get your meal, you’ll understand why locals and tourists alike flock to this low-key eatery. They always create every dish with love and as many local ingredients as they can get their hands on. After that first bite, you’re destined to talk about your delightful meal for years to come.
Their drinks are equally impressive, especially all their imaginative cocktails. They let all the tropical flavors come through strong in their drinks without skimping on the alcohol. If you prefer a beer, they’ve got that, too. They carry a small selection of craft and local brews with most varieties rotating out on a regular basis.
Since it’s such a popular joint, it’s not uncommon for them to run out of brews and other offerings by 6 pm. Avoid disappointment by arriving ready to try anything. You really cannot lose no matter what you order off their menu.
Must-try items on the menu include:
Da Very Sneaky Tiki
Their signature drink, Da Very Sneaky Tiki arrives at your table with flames ablaze, ready to knock your socks off. Although they keep the ingredients secret, you’re sure to adore all the bright tropical flavors in every sip. While this drink is meant for anywhere from two to four people, no one will judge if you enjoy it by yourself.
Spicy Wahine
When you cannot decide if you want sweet, spicy, or tart flavors, the Spicy Wahine will satisfy all your cravings at once. This drink begins with a generous amount of their housemade Hawaiian chili-infused tequila. To that, they add lemon, simple syrup, and guava nectar plus one egg white to bring it all together.
Tropical Caesar Salad
If you’re in the mood for a light yet filling dish featuring all the island flavors, you’ll undoubtedly adore the Tropical Caesar Salad. Crisp romaine lettuce starts everything off, while Thai basil, toasted coconut, and macadamia nuts add a bit of interest. Overall that, they add their house Caesar dressing plus plenty of crunchy croutons.
As you chow down, save a little room for dessert, so you can sample their shaved ice, which is always made with condensed milk and fresh fruit puree. They offer this delectable treat in mango, strawberry, guava, and lilikoi (or yellow passionfruit) flavors. Or you can go with the fan-favorite, POG, which features a perfect mix of orange, guava, and passionfruit for a kick you won’t believe.
Insider Tips:
-If you end up missing Mamahune’s after heading home, go to their website to order up swizzle sticks or an exclusive tiki mug.
-Not sure what drink to order? Just ask the bartender about the special daily drink to try something brand new.