El Rey Del Mar - Hawaii Restaurant
#21 of 82 Restaurants in Kapaa Quick Bites

El Rey Del Mar

4.9(39 community reviews)
Budget ($)

About

Discover El Rey Del Mar, offering the best Seafood experience in Kapa'a. Enjoy Budget ($) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Coastal Escape for Seafood Lovers in Kapaa

When you find yourself cruising through Kapaa, the scent of lime, cilantro, and searing ocean catches acts as a siren song pulling you toward El Rey Del Mar. This isn't your typical sit-down tourist trap; it is a straightforward, open-air spot that captures the essence of Kauai’s east side dining. The atmosphere leans toward the casual side, making it an ideal pit stop for those coming straight from the beach with sandy feet and a serious appetite.

Freshness From the Pacific

The kitchen prides itself on working with what the local waters provide. You will notice the menu shifts based on availability, but the signature fish tacos are the gold standard here. Expect thick, flaky portions of locally caught fish tucked into charred tortillas, topped with a crisp, tangy slaw that cuts through the richness of the sear. The house-made salsas arrive with a slow-building heat that lingers just long enough to keep things interesting without overwhelming the palate.

Local Notes and Nuances

Part of the charm of eating here involves the ambient hum of traffic and island life flowing right past your table. It is not a place for hushed, romantic whispers; instead, it is where you go to hear the rhythm of Kapaa. Keep in mind that seating is limited and the space fills up quickly during the lunch rush, so timing your visit for an early arrival is a smart play. The service is efficient and unfussy, mirroring the no-nonsense approach to high-quality ingredients. Whether you are grabbing a quick bite before heading north or settling in for a relaxed afternoon feast, El Rey Del Mar offers a genuine slice of island life that avoids the polish of larger resort eateries.

Location

4-1638 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746-1833

Directions

Reviews

Showing 10 of 39 community reviews
M

Mariana AmadouGoogle Maps

Recently

Food was delicious. But be aware of crazy charges for tortillas. We ordered a huge fajitas plate and they gave us 2 small tortillas. Then we asked for more they gave 2 again and then 2. We were charged $6 for 4 small tortillas. Also I read here that they try to sell chips and salsa and costs $6 too. Just so you know. Other than that, food is good and service is good as well.

A

Amy BorensteinGoogle Maps

Recently

NOT 4.8! Maybe 3.5. Not sure why ratings are so high. Chicken fajitas had hardly any chicken, was small. Two small flour tortillas came with it and we had to pay $5 for TWO more tortillas (we ordered another beans on the side). Ripoff, little food. Do not recommend unless you MUST have Mexican when you’re in Hawaii.

A

Ava S.Google Maps

Recently

Absolutely wonderful Mexican restaurant. Food is amazing, traditional styles, and flavors. Their prices and portions are great. I've eaten here many times, and I am never disappointed. I had some of the best chicken enchiladas here, and their horchata is delicious.

J

Jonathan LingmannGoogle Maps

Recently

I am from Texas where there is a Mexican restaurant on every corner, so believe me when I say this please is DELICIOUS! Ceviche was the best Ive ever had. The Baja Style fish tacos were also on point. Highly recommend!

R

R RGoogle Maps

Recently

I didnt really get to eat here but had a first hand experience of what top class service experience looks like. We came here to have vegetarian/vegan food and had almost ordered the burrito bowl but didn't. While we were describing our no-meat, no-egg restrictions to the server when she flagged the owner. The owner honestly explained how the different ingredients like rice and beans themselves have meat and the potential of cross contamination during food preparation. He also recommended 2 nearby Indian restaurants that offered vegan options - which were excellent as we found later. I would love to come back and try their food next time.

A

Angel SanchezGoogle Maps

Recently

The food and service was great. I was very surprised to find a Mexican restaurant on the island that was really good. I spoke with the owner t's located in a strip mall in the back behind McDonald's next door to an auto parts store.

J

Jeff BlumaGoogle Maps

Recently

We shared the shrimp ceviche and beef tacos. Nice Hawaiian twist on the ceviche. Very tasty and a large portion. The two soft flour tortilla beef tacos had great flavor as well. No alcohol here. And iced tea was $9. But food was reasonably priced.

M

Mr. EGoogle Maps

Recently

So lucky to have found this place! Service, chilaquiles and aquas Frescas 🔥 great service and great food. Very delicious salsa verde chilaquiles. Clean and friendly place.

A

AnilGoogle Maps

Recently

Pretty much a home in the wall, with regular unremarkable food. Those chips and salsa def came out of a Costco. Wait staff was courteous and homely. Not much of a crowd. I fact rather empty when we walked in. Veg options are quite adequate for a quick stop, eat and pop off to where you wanna go. The restaurant itself is in the very corner of a strip mall. Not quite easy to see from the road in the midst of shutdown deailate mall. But it’s there.

M

MrRyanGoogle Maps

Recently

I'm a professional food critic with a PhD in rocket science. If you haven't tried this Mexican joint, you are missing out. I had chimichangas an enchilada plate, chips and salsa. It was all excellent. I can't believe I had to travel to a tiny Island to get the best Mexican food I've ever had

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Frequently Asked Questions about El Rey Del Mar

Common questions from diners about El Rey Del Mar in Kapaa.

It is a beachside Mexican food truck that offers picnic-style seating.

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