When you call an archipelago surrounded by the Pacific Ocean home, you inevitably become spoiled by the incredible, fresh seafood options available to you. While we love splurging on fancy seafood dinners every once in a while, it is the local, little-known restaurants that serve the most mouthwatering seafood the Hawaiian Islands have to offer. You might pass right by this unassuming spot without even realizing it, but those in the know stop by for fresh seafood, a casual ambiance, and plenty of Aloha spirit.

Welcome to Mermaids Cafe, a snug sidewalk spot nestled off Kuhio Highway in Kapa’a serving up some mouthwatering seafood, plus tacos, salads, and vegetarian fare.

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If you’re used to judging a restaurant by its exterior, you might not think much of Mermaids Cafe — which is, quite frankly, the definition of a hole in the wall — but once you place your order and take a bite of your meal, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about.

Mermaids Cafe/Website

Using local ingredients whenever possible, the island-inspired flavors found at Mermaids Cafe are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

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From poke bowls and seafood wraps to tacos, burritos, and coconut curry, there’s something for everyone here. Many dishes even have the option to include chicken, ahi, or tofu.

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Healthy, delicious, and unique is the name of the game here at Mermaids and the robust, eclectic menu certainly lives up to that description.

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No matter what you order, you’ll want to wash it all down with their scrumptiously sweet hibiscus lemonade!

Mermaids Cafe/Facebook

With a brightly colored exterior, this counter-serve spot with a few picnic tables is as casual as it gets, but worth a stop the next time you find yourself in Kauai.

Mermaids Cafe/Website

Address: 4-1384 Kuhio Highway B1, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

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Mermaids Cafe/Website

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Mermaids Cafe/Facebook

Mermaids Cafe is open on Monday from 10:30 a.m to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook. Have you ever been to Mermaids Cafe? Where’s your favorite underrated spot to get seafood in the Aloha State?

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Address: 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA