Kauai Island

An old-time favorite, this low-key mixed Asian restaurant is a time-warp escape from the more generic beach flavor of much of Poipu and Lihue. The interior may be a little dark and dingy, but get past the front room and you'll see tatami-style open seating and a Japanese tea garden with Koi pond and water lilies. You can't go wrong with the noodles, but locals swear by the fried chicken, which isn't oily or fried-feeling but almost a tempura-style batter, light and airy. The Sunday evening Oriental buffet is a great deal, but come hungry!