Any Non-Luau Buffets

Hello,

Are there any Buffets on Kauai that aren't part of a luau? We've been to 3 luau's on Oahu but our 4 little kids (Age 1,3,5,&7) get really tired and fussy being at the luau for the whole length of time. We are going to do the show only at Smiths.

Are there any Hawaiin Buffets on the island that aren't part of a luau?

Thanks!

It sounds like you're looking for a more relaxed dining experience that doesn’t involve the full luau experience, which can be lengthy for young children. Fortunately, Kauai has a few buffet options that aren’t part of a luau and that can still give you a taste of Hawaiian food in a more family-friendly setting.

Here are some non-luau buffet options on Kauai that you may want to consider:

  • Garden Isle Buffet at The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas The Westin offers a breakfast buffet that features traditional Hawaiian items like loco moco, fresh tropical fruits, and a variety of breakfast favorites. While this is more of a breakfast offering, it can give you a taste of local flavors without the long evening luau experience.
  • Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club While not exactly a traditional "buffet," the Marriott offers a buffet-style brunch during certain times of the year. The menu includes a mix of Hawaiian and traditional items, with local flavors like poke and fresh fish, but it’s typically more relaxed than a full luau. You can enjoy the food and then get back to enjoying the beach with your family.
  • The Plantation Gardens Restaurant & Bar While primarily known for its fine dining, Plantation Gardens sometimes offers buffet-style meals during special events. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, and you can enjoy a mix of Hawaiian-inspired dishes without the extended length of a luau show.
  • Hanalei Bay Resort – Breakfast Buffet The Hanalei Bay Resort offers a breakfast buffet that features local fruits, pastries, eggs, and other dishes with a Hawaiian twist. This could be a great option for a relaxed morning meal with your family, giving you a chance to enjoy some local flavors in a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Kauai Beach Resort Kauai Beach Resort offers buffet-style breakfasts and dinners at their restaurants. While not typically part of a luau, their buffet includes tropical fruits, local specialties, and other familiar items like pancakes and omelets, all in a casual environment that's kid-friendly.

Additional Suggestions:

  • Explore Local Cafes and Restaurants: If you're looking to avoid the buffet scene entirely, consider exploring local restaurants that serve Hawaiian-inspired meals. Many places offer all-you-can-eat options for smaller meals like local fish, poke bowls, or plate lunches. These can be great choices for families looking for more flexibility.
  • Hotel Buffets: Many hotels on Kauai, such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai, offer buffet-style breakfasts or even dinners that are not part of a luau. These tend to be more relaxed and can accommodate children with shorter dining times.

While there are fewer traditional "buffet-only" options compared to the big luau buffets, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy a variety of Hawaiian dishes without the full luau experience. If you're hoping for something a bit more casual and shorter, the above options should be a good fit for your family.


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