Mariachi's Authentic Mexican Cuisine
About
A Slice of Mexico on Kauai's East Side
Finding genuine Mexican flavors in the heart of Kapaa can be a challenge, but Mariachi’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine fills that void with a straightforward, unpretentious approach. Located right along the main coastal drag, this spot serves as a casual refuge for locals and visitors craving a quick fix of spice after a morning of exploring the nearby Kealia Beach path.
Sizzling Platters and Coastal Energy
The atmosphere here leans toward the relaxed, open-air style characteristic of the island. You will hear the low hum of traffic mixing with upbeat Latin tracks and the sound of plates hitting wooden tables. The menu focuses on the staples: generously portioned carne asada, crispy tacos, and enchiladas smothered in a savory, mild red sauce. Their house-made salsa carries a bright, acidic punch that pairs perfectly with a cold beverage.
It is worth noting that the seating layout is quite efficient—some might say cozy—meaning you will likely be sharing the energy of the dining room with your neighbors. If you visit during the evening rush, be prepared for a lively, sometimes boisterous, environment that reflects the island's communal spirit.
Why Visit This Kapaa Local Favorite
This is the type of place you head to when you want your meal fast, hot, and dependable. It is well-suited for families or solo travelers who aren't looking for a formal white-tablecloth experience, but rather a functional, tasty stop before heading back out to the surf. While the parking can get a bit tight during peak lunch hours, the accessibility of the location makes it an easy pit stop for anyone traveling between Lihue and the North Shore.
Amenities & Features
Location
4-1387 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746-1635
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 414 community reviewsHope 2chatGoogle Maps
Recently
Stale chips watery salsa I mean buy a jalapeno you guys! The carnitas plate DRY!!!! I ordered the $30 birria taco plate and the tacos were gummy and tasted old. I went around 7:30 PM on a weekday. The service was bad. There were only a few staff members—two guys and one female server—and the overall service so bad! Don’t waste your money here. I feel like most of the good reviews are from visitors who are on vacation and think everything is great no matter what. I ended up spending about $100 with a friend , and my friend still tipped 25%, because we are not jerks like the staff and we have been in food service for EVER!!! Lihue has much better service, Kapaa food is no bueno! This will be my last time going there. NO mas
HasanakayGoogle Maps
Recently
Great location great food. Easy to find a place to sit with helpful servers. The guacamole is delicious. Nachos are excellent too.
AGoogle Maps
Recently
Thought I would give this place a chance since it has been there a while, while other restaurants have turned 5xs over..... and that Mexicans actually work there. I have a thing about food authenticity and the people who cook the culture. I eat a lot of "Mexican food" in SD and let's just say, I would be ashamed if I were them serving what I ate. Yup, won't ever go back. Never ever ever get their chili rellenos!! I don't think I've ever tasted one so horrible. It felt as if it was packaged, stuck it in the microwave, and reheated it up. I couldn't even identify the cheese that it was in it. It seemed??? like cheddar 😑😑
Lauren De MoudtGoogle Maps
Recently
Excellent food and atmosphere. The staff was incredibly fun and friendly! The carnitas plate was delicious!
Debra MeehlGoogle Maps
Recently
We have eaten here 3 times in the last 14 days on Kauai. The hand made tamales were fabulous. The half double grid chicken was delightful. Enchiladas were Devine. Photois half gone I could not wait 😂🤣😂
Kevin TadlockGoogle Maps
Recently
I was alittle surprised at the low rating! I am sure Glad I chose to ignore them! This place was amazing! I’m sure things don’t always go right, but this place for us was amazing! Great all around place! 🤙🤙🤙🤙🤙🤙
Danny GarciaGoogle Maps
Recently
Mixed emotions here. Depends on what you order. Chorizo plate was delicious. The Torta, was average. The taqutos should have been made fresh, there not hard to make but seems like they serve microwave taqutos. Drinks were pretty good. The restaurant tries really hard to serve authentic meals from back home but they have to work what they can get on the Island. So it makes sense. It's not there fault.
Pascal BraunGoogle Maps
Recently
Came for dinner and had a great experience. The ceviche and fajitas were both on point and freshly made. Service was quick and friendly. Prices are comparable with other restaurants here in Kauai. Plates were about $20. A pitcher of beer was $26.
Joshua HuppGoogle Maps
Recently
Ate here for dinner on a Saturday night. Love the open feel. Service was decent. My food was decent. Not amazing. Ordered a carne asada chimichanga and was a bit surprised that the whole thing was full of meat (no beans, etc). Not bad necessarily, but dry as a result and the flavor was lacking. My wife had the fish tacos and loved them. Would go back.
Tim GadusGoogle Maps
Recently
Came in for a late lunch and happened to be Happy Hour. The setting is comfortable with Great Wall paintings. We were seated within minutes with water and menus awaiting us. Rosy was our server and she was friendly and helpful. The nachos supreme were super and quickly consumed. The pitcher of Cadillac Margaritas was appreciated by the adults and kids had virgin pina coladas. The veggie tacos were a knockout, fresh and nicely seasoned. Street tacos came as 5 individual tacos, and the Al pastor tostada was great. The carne asada and mole enchiladas were great dishes for the kids. The food was authentic, fresh, nicely seasoned and served together. Highly recommend Mariachi’s if you want a filling and tasty meal!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Mariachi's Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Common questions from diners about Mariachi's Authentic Mexican Cuisine in Kapaa.
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