Living in Kauai: My Favorite East Side Escape – Fish Bar Deli

Living in Hanalei, I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by an incredible array of delicious food. From the vibrant flavors at Bar Acuda and Ama to the sushi rolls of The Dolphin, the local Hanalei Market, and the fresh finds at the Saturday Farmers Market, the north shore is a food lover’s dream. A short drive up the hill to Princeville only expands the offerings. 

But even with all these amazing options in my backyard, any excuse I can make for a trip to the east side for Fish Bar Deli in Kapaa is a good one. Seriously, if you live on Kauai or are just visiting, this spot is a non-negotiable must-try.

The Vibe: Come Starved, Leave Stoked

Fish Bar Deli perfectly coins themselves as a “straight-off-the-beach casual dining experience. Bar top seating. First come, first serve. Lunch, dinner & happy hour. Come starved, leave stoked.” I couldn’t agree more. The atmosphere is buzzing and welcoming. You can expect a short wait, maybe 15 minutes, but it is absolutely worth it. It’s the perfect amount of time to decide on one of their light, refreshing cocktails that will undoubtedly have you ordering a second.

My personal go-to (and I admit, I rarely stray) is the Garden Isle. It’s like a fresh, minty green juice where the spirit is so well-balanced you can hardly taste it. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of work, enjoying the surf, or running errands 

Must-Try Dishes at Fish Bar Deli

You truly can’t go wrong with a single thing on the menu. Here are a few of my favorites that keep me coming back:

• Pupus (Appetizers): They often have fantastic daily specials, which I tend to choose from. However, a constant favorite is their poke. It is the perfect shareable starter.
• Dinner – My Top 3 Picks: In No Particular Order
  1. Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich: Hands down, the best chicken sandwich I have ever had. The chicken is juicy and perfectly fried. If I lived in Kapaa, I would be tempted to eat this three + times a week! 
  2. Rainbow Kale Caesar Salad: This is not your average caesar salad. It’s out of this world, packed with fresh ingredients and a dressing I’ve never been able to find anywhere else. It’s a testament to how they elevate every single dish.
  3. Ahi Au Poivre: This is the dish I order 9 times out of 10. The ahi melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the fresh, salty crunch of sea asparagus. It’s a masterpiece that showcases the best of Kauai’s fresh fish.

More Than a Meal, It’s the Kauai Lifestyle

Driving back home to Hanalei, I’m always reminded of why this island is so special. Finding these local gems, from restaurants like Fish Bar Deli to hidden beaches and quiet hiking trails, is the true joy of living on Kauai. It’s about community, quality, and enjoying the simple, incredible things life here has to offer.

Whether you’re searching for your forever home or a vacation property, a huge part of the investment is the lifestyle that comes with it. Having yummy dining just a scenic drive away is one of the many perks. 

So next time you’re on the east side, stop by Fish Bar Deli. Try it, and thank me later.

Thanks, Fish Bar, for holding a special place in my heart and for consistently being one of the best dining experiences on the island!