03-05-2025
Top Poi Spots on Kauai
Where to Find the Best Poi on Kauai
President & certified Hawaii travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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Where to Find the Best Poi on Kauai
Top Spots for Authentic Hawaiian Poi
Poi, a staple of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, is made by pounding cooked taro root into a smooth, slightly tangy paste. While it was once a dietary mainstay for Native Hawaiians, it remains a beloved dish, often served alongside kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, and lau lau. Suppose you're visiting Kauai and want to experience authentic, fresh poi. In that case, you're lucky—the island is home to incredible sources, from historic taro farms to local markets and traditional Hawaiian eateries.
Here’s a guide to the best places to get poi on the island of Kauai.
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co.
5-5070 Kuhio Hwy # B, Hanalei, HI
If you want to experience fresh, farm-grown poi, Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. is a must-visit. The Haraguchi family operates this family-run business, farming taro in Hanalei for over six generations. They produce some of the freshest poi on the island, which is made from taro and grown in the famous Hanalei Valley.
- Available by the pound at their food truck or pre-ordered online.
- Also serves delicious Hawaiian plate lunches featuring poi.
- Pro tip: Try their poi smoothie for a unique take on this traditional food.
Waipa Foundation Farmers Market
55785A Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
The Waipa Farmers Market, held on Tuesdays, is an excellent place to find fresh poi from locally grown taro. The Waipa Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Hawaiian culture and sustainable agriculture, runs the market.
- Freshly made poi is often available from local vendors.
- You can also buy whole taro root to try making poi yourself.
- Enjoy the market’s scenic location on Kauai’s North Shore.
Hukilau Lanai
520 Aleka Loop, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
For a fine dining experience that incorporates fresh poi, Hukilau Lanai in Kapaʻa is a fantastic choice. This restaurant specializes in farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine and often features poi as part of their traditional Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
- Their poi is made with locally sourced taro.
- Try it as a side dish or paired with their signature seafood entrées.
- Reservations recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity.
Pono Market
4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
A favorite among locals, Pono Market is a great place to grab traditional Hawaiian food, including fresh poi. This small, family-run market in Kapaʻa has been serving up authentic island flavors for decades.
- Offers freshly made poi in limited quantities—arrive early to get some.
- Also serves Hawaiian lunch plates featuring lau lau, poke, and kalua pork.
- Perfect for grabbing a quick, authentic meal to enjoy at the beach.
Where to Get the Best Poi on Kauai
Whether you're looking for fresh, traditional poi straight from a taro farm or want to enjoy it as part of a delicious Hawaiian meal, Kauai has plenty of excellent options. Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. and the Waipa Farmers Market offer some of the most authentic, farm-to-table experiences. At the same time, Pono Market and Hukilau Lanai provide delicious ways to enjoy poi in a meal.
Wherever you try poi, you're in for a true taste of Hawaiian culture and tradition.
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Published by: Tori C. Derrick
President & certified Hawaii travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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