Merriman's Kauai

Nestled in the scenic Kukui‘ula Shopping Village of Koloa, Merriman's Kauai offers an elevated dining experience that truly captures the essence of Hawaii’s vibrant culinary landscape. This acclaimed restaurant masterfully blends fresh, local ingredients with inventive cooking techniques to create a menu that is both rooted in island tradition and refreshingly modern.

Specializing in seafood, steak, and a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails, Merriman’s showcases dishes bursting with bold, intricate flavors. One standout is the Mac Nut Crusted Local Fish, a perfect harmony of crunchy macadamia nuts embracing tender, flaky fish, served alongside aromatic garlic jasmine rice and a luscious Hamakua Aliʻi mushroom sake reduction. Equally enticing is the “Ma Kai” entrée, a farm-and-ocean inspired composition that promises a complex layering of fresh, authentic island tastes.

Start your culinary journey with sophisticated appetizers such as the Crab Cakes paired with mixed greens and tropical salsa verde, or dive into the Hawaiian Style Poke, where the sweetness of Maui onions and the gentle heat of jalapeños mingle with creamy avocado and a soy-ginger dressing. For those seeking vegetable-forward starters, the Smoked Taro Hummus with Molokai sweet potato chips offers a smoky depth and satisfying crunch worthy of savoring.

The dining atmosphere at Merriman's effortlessly balances casual elegance and warm aloha spirit. Views from the upstairs location overlook the glistening ocean, creating an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable sunset meal. Attentive yet relaxed service enhances each visit, making guests feel genuinely welcomed and well cared for throughout the evening.

Don’t miss their signature Merriman’s Mai Tai, topped with lilikoi foam, a cocktail that dances on the palate with tropical sweetness and a subtle tartness—an absolute must-try, as noted by many guests. End your meal on a high note with indulgent desserts like the White Chocolate Filled Malasadas or the Crunchy Hawaiian Molten Chocolate Purse, each bite offering a decadent island twist on classic treats.

The rave reviews from diners resonate with heartfelt enthusiasm—Anjelica “Jelly” Meharenna celebrated the divine flavors and memorable experience, describing how each dish made her taste buds sing. Sarah Jablonski hailed it as the highlight of her anniversary trip, praising the impeccable service and perfectly cooked Mac Nut Mahi. Others, like Justin Voss, have returned for a second helping on the same trip, enchanted by the seasonal specials and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re marking a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply craving an authentic taste of Kauai’s best, Merriman's Kauai delivers a sophisticated yet inviting slice of island paradise. Every plate tells a story of aloha, sustainability, and culinary artistry—making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers alike.