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During a week’s stay, you might easily hit all the dining spots worth a visit and then return to your favorites for a second round. The dining scene is fun, because it’s a microcosm of Hawaii’s diverse cultures. You can find locally grown vegetarian foods, spicy Filipino cuisine, or Hawaiian fish with a Japanese influence—such as tuna, mullet, and moonfish that’s grilled, sautéed, or mixed with seaweed to make poke (salted and seasoned raw fish).
Most eating establishments are on Ala Malama Street in Kaunakakai. If you’re heading to West Molokai for the day, be sure to stock up on provisions, as there is no place to eat there. If you are on the east end, stop by Manae Goods & Grindz (808/558–8186) near mile marker 16 for good local seafood plates, burgers, and ice cream.
Located in Hotel Molokai, the island's only oceanfront restaurant is also its fanciest and best place to grab a drink or watch the game on TV. Enjoy pasta, steak, shrimp, or fish while watching the sunset and listening to live music, and don't be surprised if the couple you saw hiking is seated at the table right next to you. Try hearty burgers for lunch, local favorite plates like kalbi ribs for dinner, and for a real treat, plan for breakfast on Sunday.
This popular standout is the perfect spot for a laid-back night out with dishes that are playful yet stay true to the island's roots, highlighted by excellent burgers, garlic shrimp, and nightly specials. The bar has the island's only draft beer, there's live music and dancing most nights, and fish and produce are locally sourced whenever possible.
Clean and cheery, Molokai Burger offers both drive-through and eat-in options. Often compared to In-n-Out, this is the island's version of fast food, and the tasty burger buns and super crispy fries (including enormous waffle fries as an option) help to elevate this past a typical experience.
This is a popular gathering spot for local families and a good place to pick up food for a picnic. Pizza, sandwiches, burgers, salads, pasta, ribs, and chicken are simply prepared and served without fuss, and kids keep busy at the arcade games and happy with milkshakes or soft serve for dessert. Good, affordable food brings people in and a warm, friendly staff brings them back.
