Four Guest Favorites at Hualani's Restaurant
August 26, 2024
At Hualani’s, every meal is a story, an exploration of Kauaʻi’s fertile land and sea. The restaurant’s farm-to-table ethos is evident in every menu item, with ingredients sourced locally and prepared with a reverence for the traditions of Hawaiian cuisine. It’s no wonder that Hualani’s has been honored as a 2024 OpenTable Diners’ Choice winner, a testament to its commitment to excellence and the satisfaction of its guests. Among the many culinary treasures on the menu, four dishes stand out as perennial guest favorites.
Kale Caesar Salad
In keeping with its farm-to-table philosophy, Hualani’s Kale Caesar Salad showcases the restaurant’s commitment to using the freshest produce available. The kale, sourced from the Farm at Hōkūala, is the star of this dish, offering a robust, earthy flavor complemented by a creamy lemon-anchovy dressing. This dressing is a nod to the classic Caesar, but with a brightness that reflects the island’s sunny disposition. Guests have the option to enhance their salad with freshly caught fish or chicken, adding a protein boost that makes this dish both satisfying and versatile.
Mac Nut Crusted Local Catch
Each day at Hualani’s, a fresh catch is sourced from Kauaʻi’s coastal waters. The catch may vary, but the preparation remains consistent: the fish is encrusted with a golden layer of crushed macadamia nuts, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender, flaky flesh of the fish. Accompanying Asian-style slaw adds a refreshing bite, while sticky white rice serves as a comforting base. The plate is finished with a vibrant pineapple salsa, adding a sweet, tangy brightness that ties each elements together.
Kalbi Short Ribs
A masterful blend of traditional Korean flavors and Hawaiian ingredients, the Kalbi Short Ribs are marinated to perfection, allowing the rich, savory notes of the kalbi to permeate the tender meat. Grilled to a succulent finish, the ribs are paired with house-made kimchee, adding a spicy, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the meat. Accompanied by a serving of fluffy white rice, this gluten-free dish pays homage to the diverse influences that have shaped Hawaii’s culinary culture.
Lilikoi Cheesecake
Dessert is never an afterthought at Hualani’s. The Lilikoi Cheesecake has earned a legendary status among diners, offering a delicate balance of sweetness and tang that captures the essence of the island’s tropical bounty. The key to this dish’s fresh tropical taste lies in the farm fresh lilikoi (passion fruit) coulis crowning a silky crème anglaise cheesecake.
Hualani’s is open daily; reservations are highly recommended. We look forward to seeing you soon.
