The Naisla Experience
Just minutes from Kapaa, Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails offers a upscale-dining experience that rivals the best Kapaa restaurants while reflecting the charm of nearby Wailua. From the moment you walk in, our inviting modern space sets the stage for an evening of elevated flavor and hospitality. Every detail—each handcrafted cocktail, every locally sourced ingredient—is chosen to capture the island's essence. Our chefs blend Japanese precision with Italian warmth, creating dishes that feel both familiar and extraordinary. Whether you're staying in Kapaa or exploring the east side of Kauai, Naisla welcomes you to savor an experience where island culture meets culinary artistry.
2
2
Years Experience
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Us
Locally Sourced Ingredients, authentically Kauai
Locally Sourced Ingredients
When it comes to fresh, local dining near Kapaa, authenticity starts with the source. Erik Tanigawa—owner of Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails—personally caught this fish just off Kauai's east side near Wailua. The two-hour fight against the open ocean current reflects the same dedication Erik brings to every dish we serve.
At Naisla, we believe in honoring the island by serving ingredients that come directly from it's waters and farms. Each catch tells a story—of Kauai's community, its ocean, and the passion that drives us to create food that's truly homegrown.
When it comes to fresh, local dining near Kapaa, authenticity starts with the source. Erik Tanigawa—owner of Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails—personally caught this ahi just off Kauai’s east side near Wailua. The two-hour fight against the open-ocean current reflects the same dedication Erik brings to every dish we serve.
At Naisla, we believe in honoring the island by serving ingredients that come directly from its waters and farms. Each catch and harvest tells a story—of Kauai’s people, its ocean, and the passion that drives us to create food that’s truly homegrown.
When it comes to fresh, local dining near Kapaa, authenticity starts with the source. Erik Tanigawa—owner of Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails—personally caught this fish just off Kauai's east side near Wailua. The two-hour fight against the open ocean current reflects the same dedication Erik brings to every dish we serve.
At Naisla, we believe in honoring the island by serving ingredients that come directly from it's waters and farms. Each catch tells a story—of Kauai's community, its ocean, and the passion that drives us to create food that's truly homegrown.
It's this commitment to locally sourced ingredients and genuine craftsmanship that sets Naisla apart among Kapaa restaurants and fine-dining experiences on Kauai's east side.
It's this commitment to locally sourced ingredients and genuine craftsmanship that sets Naisla apart among Kapaa restaurants and upscale-dining experiences on Kauai's east side.
It's this commitment to locally sourced ingredients and genuine craftsmanship that sets Naisla apart among Kapaa restaurants and fine-dining experiences on Kauai's east side.
Journey
Journey
Journey
How it All Began
Every great restaurant starts with a story — and Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails began with family.The name “Naisla” was inspired by Erik and Whitney Tanigawa’s children, Ian and Isla — two bright sparks who remind the Naisla team every day why passion, creativity, and love belong at the heart of upscale dining on Kauai.
Every unforgettable restaurant begins with a visionary behind the plate. At Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails that vision came to life with our first chef, Patrick Wilson, whose craftsmanship and creativity helped shape the restaurant’s identity from day one.
Blending traditional techniques with bold, modern flavors, Patrick laid the foundation for what Naisla represents today — artfully crafted dishes inspired by Kaua‘i’s local bounty and global culinary influences. His dedication to precision, presentation, and passion set the tone for every meal that leaves our kitchen.
At Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails, our journey is only just beginning. What started as a family vision has become one of Kaua‘i’s most refined dining experiences — and we continue to grow, evolve, and perfect our craft with every plate we serve. Our mission is simple: to offer the best fine dining on Kaua‘i, built on the values of artistry, consistency, and genuine hospitality. Every ingredient we source, every cocktail we create, and every guest we welcome reflects our dedication to excellence. As we move forward, we remain committed to innovation, to our island community, and to the culinary standard you deserve — a dining experience that embodies the true spirit of Kaua‘i.
At Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails, our journey is only just beginning. What started as a family vision has become one of Kaua‘i’s most refined dining experiences — and we continue to grow, evolve, and perfect our craft with every plate we serve. Our mission is simple: to offer the best fine dining on Kaua‘i, built on the values of artistry, consistency, and genuine hospitality. Every ingredient we source, every cocktail we create, and every guest we welcome reflects our dedication to excellence. As we move forward, we remain committed to innovation, to our island community, and to the culinary standard you deserve — a dining experience that embodies the true spirit of Kaua‘i.
At Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails, our journey is only just beginning. What started as a family vision has become one of Kaua‘i’s most refined dining experiences — and we continue to grow, evolve, and perfect our craft with every plate we serve. Our mission is simple: to offer the best fine dining on Kaua‘i, built on the values of artistry, consistency, and genuine hospitality. Every ingredient we source, every cocktail we create, and every guest we welcome reflects our dedication to excellence. As we move forward, we remain committed to innovation, to our island community, and to the culinary standard you deserve — a dining experience that embodies the true spirit of Kaua‘i.
Testimonials
Testimonials
Testimonials
Our Diners Are Saying
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an impromptu trip to Kauai. On our second night, my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late-night table and were excited to check it out. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over, introduced herself, and took our drink orders. I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and is not to be missed. Now for the food. We started out with the arancini. These were outstanding — made with fresh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon, a touch of pesto, and mozzarella. They paired perfectly with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen — they were so awesome! For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I cannot personally say one way or another, but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entrée is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutely nailed this dish, and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again. Overall, the prices were reasonable, the ambiance was casual yet still maintained a sense of elegance, and the service was top-notch. Easy five-star rating.
Rene C.Santa Rosa, CA
Naisla is on our must-go rotation at least twice a year. We always appreciate the friendly service and the welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Their happy hour is a great deal with $10 drinks, and the scallops and tuna tartare are consistently excellent starters. The Caesar salad and cucumber salad are also fantastic. This time we tried the pasta carbonara — it was okay but not a favorite. The real standouts remain the lobster linguine and the short rib with risotto, both of which are can't-miss dishes.
Beth S.Los Angeles, CA
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Service was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an impromptu trip to Kauai. On our second night, my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late-night table and were excited to check it out. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over, introduced herself, and took our drink orders. I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and is not to be missed. Now for the food. We started out with the arancini. These were outstanding — made with fresh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon, a touch of pesto, and mozzarella. They paired perfectly with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen — they were so awesome! For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I cannot personally say one way or another, but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entrée is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutely nailed this dish, and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again. Overall, the prices were reasonable, the ambiance was casual yet still maintained a sense of elegance, and the service was top-notch. Easy five-star rating.
Rene C.Santa Rosa, CA
Naisla is on our must-go rotation at least twice a year. We always appreciate the friendly service and the welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Their happy hour is a great deal with $10 drinks, and the scallops and tuna tartare are consistently excellent starters. The Caesar salad and cucumber salad are also fantastic. This time we tried the pasta carbonara — it was okay but not a favorite. The real standouts remain the lobster linguine and the short rib with risotto, both of which are can't-miss dishes.
Beth S.Los Angeles, CA
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Service was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an impromptu trip to Kauai. On our second night, my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late-night table and were excited to check it out. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over, introduced herself, and took our drink orders. I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and is not to be missed. Now for the food. We started out with the arancini. These were outstanding — made with fresh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon, a touch of pesto, and mozzarella. They paired perfectly with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen — they were so awesome! For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I cannot personally say one way or another, but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entrée is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutely nailed this dish, and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again. Overall, the prices were reasonable, the ambiance was casual yet still maintained a sense of elegance, and the service was top-notch. Easy five-star rating.
Rene C.Santa Rosa, CA
Naisla is on our must-go rotation at least twice a year. We always appreciate the friendly service and the welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Their happy hour is a great deal with $10 drinks, and the scallops and tuna tartare are consistently excellent starters. The Caesar salad and cucumber salad are also fantastic. This time we tried the pasta carbonara — it was okay but not a favorite. The real standouts remain the lobster linguine and the short rib with risotto, both of which are can't-miss dishes.
Beth S.Los Angeles, CA
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Service was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an impromptu trip to Kauai. On our second night, my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late-night table and were excited to check it out. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over, introduced herself, and took our drink orders. I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and is not to be missed. Now for the food. We started out with the arancini. These were outstanding — made with fresh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon, a touch of pesto, and mozzarella. They paired perfectly with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen — they were so awesome! For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I cannot personally say one way or another, but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entrée is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutely nailed this dish, and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again. Overall, the prices were reasonable, the ambiance was casual yet still maintained a sense of elegance, and the service was top-notch. Easy five-star rating.
Rene C.Santa Rosa, CA
Naisla is on our must-go rotation at least twice a year. We always appreciate the friendly service and the welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Their happy hour is a great deal with $10 drinks, and the scallops and tuna tartare are consistently excellent starters. The Caesar salad and cucumber salad are also fantastic. This time we tried the pasta carbonara — it was okay but not a favorite. The real standouts remain the lobster linguine and the short rib with risotto, both of which are can't-miss dishes.
Beth S.Los Angeles, CA
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Service was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent! The ambiance was perfect, and everything was fresh. Highly recommend this restaurant for a great dining experience!
Alonso D. DowsonKapaa, HI
Amazing food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I've had—highly recommend!
Kristin WatsonKapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent! The ambiance was perfect, and everything was fresh. Highly recommend this restaurant for a great dining experience!
Alonso D. DowsonKapaa, HI
Amazing food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I've had—highly recommend!
Kristin WatsonKapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent! The ambiance was perfect, and everything was fresh. Highly recommend this restaurant for a great dining experience!
Alonso D. DowsonKapaa, HI
Amazing food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I've had—highly recommend!
Kristin WatsonKapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Amy TeeKapaa, HI
The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent! The ambiance was perfect, and everything was fresh. Highly recommend this restaurant for a great dining experience!
Alonso D. DowsonKapaa, HI
Amazing food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I've had—highly recommend!
Kristin WatsonKapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Kapaa, HI
I'm ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn't a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Kapaa, HI
I’m ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn’t a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Los Angeles, CA
I’m ashamed to say this is the first time we have been here since it opened! Can easily say we will recommend Naisla and be back! Serviced was fantastic & the food was beyond amazing. We went with the specials for the appetizer and salad, if they have the cru ceviche, just say "yes please" when your server is telling you the nightly specials! Everything came out timely and there isn’t a thing I would suggest to change our experience.
Los Angeles, CA
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an improptu trip to Kaui. On our second night my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late night table and were excited to check it out.Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over and introduced herself and took our drink orders, I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and are not to be missed.Now for the food. We started out with the aranchini. These were outstanding, made with frsh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon a touch of pesto and mozerlla. They paried perfect with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen they were so awesome!For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (Butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I can not personally say one or another but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entree is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutly nailed this dish and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again.Overall the prices were reasonalble, the ambiance was casual yet still maintend a sense of elegance and the service was top notch. Easy five star rating.
Santa Rosa, CA
My wife and I were fortunate enough to book an improptu trip to Kaui. On our second night my wife (via the help of Yelp) found this little gem of a restaurant. We booked a late night table and were excited to check it out.Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated. Our server came right over and introduced herself and took our drink orders, I must say, if you're a cocktail lover, they take theirs very seriously here. Each drink is assembled with care and are not to be missed.Now for the food. We started out with the aranchini. These were outstanding, made with frsh risotto, fresh ricotta, guanciale lardon a touch of pesto and mozerlla. They paried perfect with our gin cocktails. I could have eaten a dozen they were so awesome!For our mains, my wife chose to have two appetizers. She had the black cod (Butterfish) and the hamachi crudo. I am not a seafood person, so I can not personally say one or another but my wife was all smiles with her dish. I went with the braised short ribs served over risotto. This entree is one of my top 10 dishes I have had in 2024. Each bite seemed to get better and better. The chef absolutly nailed this dish and if I ever get back here again, I would have a hard time not ordering it again.Overall the prices were reasonalble, the ambiance was casual yet still maintend a sense of elegance and the service was top notch. Easy five star rating.
Santa Rosa, CA
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Experience upscale dining at it's most intimate on Kauai's east side. Reserve your table for an evening of refined flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and warm island ambiance — all crafted to make every moment unforgettable
