The Four
Painkiller, Kauai favorite places, Simple Chicken Parmesan, Reyn Spooner shirts
Hi Everyone,
I'm just back from a week in Kauai and it was heavenly. We had all the family together, which is a chief source of happiness for me in this phase of life. The kids gave me a family photo shoot for Mother’s Day so we’ll actually have some nice photos to show off. Today in The Four, I’ll tell you about some of my favorite spots in Kauai. Upon arrival, my husband, Christophe, made a big batch of painkillers and I’m sharing the recipe below. It’s easy to batch this cocktail and we love it for summer celebrations. I’m also sharing a quick and satisfying weekend dinner, and a cool Hawaiian shirt I got for Christophe. Read on!
1. Painkiller
We discovered this drink years ago sailing in the British Virgin Islands and it always reminds me of good times. It’s Christophe’s favorite cocktail and the way we toasted the start of our vacation.
2 oz dark rum (light rum is ok too)
4 oz pineapple juice
1 oz orange juice
1 oz cream of coconut
Freshly grated nutmeg
Add all ingredients except nutmeg to a cocktail shaker half filled with ice. Shake 20 seconds. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an orange slice and nutmeg.
2. Kauai Favorites
We’ve been to Kauai several times, but always revisit some of our favorite spots. As for where to stay, we were 7 and stayed in a house which was within walking distance to Poipu Beach. There are also several hotels in Poipu (Grand Hyatt or the Marriott Waiohai Beach Club which is the southern part of Kauai and generally a little sunnier than the north (Princeville/Hanalei).
Holey Grail Donuts: this is a new one for us but there’s been some press about these taro donuts made with ingredients you can feel good about, so it was on my radar. We caught up with them in Kapa’a at their food truck, but they also have locations in Hanalei and Honolulu, and 3 in LA county. The donuts are made fresh to order, so they are hot and delicious, with a tender, cakey texture I love. My favorite was the passionfruit.
Anake’s Juice Bar: it’s worth winding your way to the back of Kukuiula Market for this gem. My favorite juice blend (Dawn Patrol) comes from here, and they make some of the best acai bowls around.
Kauai Juice Co: there are several locations around Kauai but don’t let the chain-store aspect put you off. The juices and smoothies are freshly made and delicious, and the store is packed with carefully curated merch you will want to peruse. Will’s favorite hot sauce is from this store.
Fresh Shave: Hawaiian shave ice without the bright colors, this establishment in Koloa is definitely worth a stop if you like intriguing, fruity, natural flavor combinations with your ice.
Merriman’s: old Hawaiian-style dining room for a special-occasion meal because it’s relatively expensive. The food is reliably good, using many locally sourced products, and the service is discreet but friendly. Be aware that if you're coming for happy hour (4-5pm) there are very few spots so arrive early.
Musubi Truck: I think we ordered from here at least three times. I had never tasted a Spam musubi and was surprised at how good it was. But the real star here is the Ahi Katsu. Sooo good! Highly recommended, and they have three trucks: Koloa, Kapa’a, and Kalapaki.
Hanalei Poke: voted best poke by my family, and we sampled a lot. Runner up, Poipu Poke Shack.
Java Kai Coffee: this has replaced Little Fish as our favorite coffee spot near Poipu. It’s located in old town Koloa under a big, beautiful tree, with ample outdoor seating (across from Fresh Shave). The staff is super friendly and the coffee is delicious. Order ahead and skip the line.
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters: Another fave for good coffee, this San Diego coffee roaster sources its direct-trade coffee from smallholder farmers, and has a location in Koloa.
Puka Dog : Can you really say you’ve been to Kauai without sampling a Puka Dog? We think not. These Hawaiian style hot dogs have been featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” and named one of the Top Ten Hot Dog Stands in America by the Travel Channel. It’s the relishes and mustard that really make them special. Yes, it’s worth the wait in line.