Best Manapua on Kauai

Konohiki Seafoods (Lihue)

3-4301 Kuhio Hwy #102, Lihue, HI 96766

Konohiki Seafoods is famous for its fresh poke, but locals rave about their manapua. Their baked char siu manapua has a perfectly golden-brown crust, while the filling is flavorful with just the right balance of sweet and savory. This spot is a must-visit if you’re looking for a satisfying snack before heading to the beach.

Tip: Pair your manapua with one of their signature poke bowls for the ultimate Hawaiian food experience

Hamura Saimin Stand (Lihue)

2956 Kress St, Lihue, HI 96766

While Hamura Saimin is best known for its legendary saimin (Hawaiian-style noodle soup), they also serve delicious manapua. Their version is a soft, steamed bun filled with traditional char siu pork, perfect for dipping into the broth of your saimin.

Tip: Come early—Hamura Saimin is a local favorite, and they often sell out of their manapua quickly

The Pono Market (Kapaa)

4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746

Pono Market is a small, family-run shop that has been serving delicious Hawaiian food for decades. While it’s best known for its fresh poke and plate lunches, its manapua is also a delightful choice. The soft, steamed buns are generously filled with flavorful char siu, making them a satisfying grab-and-go snack.

Tip: Get there early in the morning—Pono Market’s manapua is made fresh daily and sells out fast.

Sueoka Store (Koloa)

5392 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756

This historic mom-and-pop grocery store in Koloa Town is a local favorite for quick bites, including their baked manapua. The slightly crispy, golden-brown exterior perfectly matches the sweet and savory pork filling. If you’re in the area exploring Poipu Beach, stop by for a snack.

Tip: Grab a Spam musubi and fresh local juice for the perfect Hawaiian picnic while there.

Kauaʻi Bakery & Coffee (Lihue)

3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy #1526, Lihue, HI 96766 (Inside Kukui Grove Center)

If you’re looking for a sweeter take on manapua, Kauaʻi Bakery is the place to go. They serve traditional char siu manapua and unique dessert-filled versions, like coconut or ube (purple yam). Their fluffy, baked buns and a cup of local Kauai-grown coffee are a great treat.

Try their famous malasadas while you’re here—another must-try Hawaiian pastry!

Honorable Mentions

• Ishihara Market (Waimea) – Occasionally sells fresh manapua in their grab-and-go section.
• Costco Kauai (Lihue) – May have pre-packaged manapua from local bakeries in their deli section.
• Local Food Trucks & Farmers Markets – Check out pop-up vendors that sell homemade manapua, often with creative fillings like kalua pork or curry chicken.

Finding the best manapua on Kauai means looking beyond the tourist hotspots and seeking out the local gems. Whether you prefer a traditional char siu bun, a baked version, or something sweet, the island has plenty of options to satisfy your craving.

If you’re on the hunt for authentic Hawaiian flavors, make sure to stop by these top spots, and don’t forget to grab an extra manapua for later—once you take your first bite, you’ll definitely want more!