Long before Hawaii became an American state, and tourism became the islands’ main industry, pineapple, sugar, and coffee production were king. In the mid-1800s, plantations and sugar mills began popping up all over Hawaii, and luckily, there are still a few plantations you can visit for yourself, including Kilohana Plantation. And tucked away on this picturesque plantation is a truly phenomenal restaurant you’ll want to add to your dining bucket list. 

Nestled around the manor’s original courtyard with views of Mt. Waialeale in the distance, Gaylord’s Restaurant has been an island tradition since 1986.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

Diners will enjoy fresh, scrumptious flavors during lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch at this award-winning restaurant with traditional touches and lush surroundings.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

As soon as you step foot inside Gaylord’s, you’ll swear as though you’ve entered another era. White tablecloths, traditional furniture, and island touches will make you feel right at home.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

While the surroundings are pretty stellar, we came for the food, so let’s dive in. Utilizing only the freshest seasonal ingredients and supporting Kauai’s local farmers and fishermen, much of the produce and herbs used in the dishes and cocktails are harvested from Kilohana’s very own 67-acre sustainable farm.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

The dinner menu is full of island-inspired seafood dishes like sesame seared ahi and prawn pasta as well as traditional meats like filet mignon, pork spare-ribs, and oven-roasted chicken.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

You’ll also find a variety of scrumptious salads and appetizers — from fresh crab cakes and ahi poke to Caprese and vegetarian spring rolls.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

Lunch means light fare, from soups, salads, and sandwiches to fish and chips, coconut crusted shrimp, and baked macaroni and cheese. With seven sandwiches and six salads, there’s something for everyone here.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook The Sunday brunch buffet is truly spectacular as well.

If you’re hoping to enjoy one of Kauai’s best dining experiences, look no further than Gaylord’s at Kilohana.

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

Gaylord’s is open Monday through Wednesday and Friday through Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 to 8:30 p.m. They are open all day on Thursday from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook. 

Gaylord’s at Kilohana/Facebook

The Sunday brunch buffet is truly spectacular as well.

Did you know that Kilohana Plantation is also home to one of the Aloha State’s only train rides? Learn more about the Kauai Plantation Railway in one of our previous articles.

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Address: 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA