3 Best Restaurants in The East Side, Kauai

Monico’s Taqueria is a favorite among locals and visitors, due to its hearty portions and delicious authentic cuisine, including nachos, tortas, flautas, and fajitas. The bright airy dining room is cheerful, and the outdoor patio offers a view of coconut palms waving in the breeze.

Not surprisingly, tacos take center stage here (though there are tamales and salad bowls). The tacos are made from quality ingredients, many of which are organic and locally sourced, and you can mix and match; the fish tacos, as well as those filled with kalua pig, surf and turf, or fire-roasted vegetables, are popular choices. The corn tortillas are house-made, and so are the tamales and slow-cooked meats. Tacos are very large and are served à la carte. This joint is mostly for takeout, with a tiny dining room and a few outside tables facing the parking lot.

Combining classic Mexican food with chile-based sauces and creations from the chef's home state of New Mexico, Verde's menu includes tostadas, enchiladas, and tacos filled with fresh fish, slow-cooked chicken, or local grass-fed beef. The garlic-shrimp tacos and stacked enchilada with a choice of chicken, pork adovada (New Mexican red chile stew), or Kauai beef filling, smothered in red or green chile sauce, are favorites. The food runs hot and spicy. Beer on tap and the house margarita are the only alcoholic offerings. Save room for the fried sopaipillas served with Kauai honey. The modern decor is sparse but comfortable and casual, with natural lighting and seating at tables or the bar. Located in Hokulei Village in Lihue, Verde offers delivery services and online ordering for the Lihue area.