Kauai Restaurants

This vegetarian restaurant has become so popular that they had to move into larger quarters just around the corner. In a tranquil atmosphere with plenty of light from the two-story dining room, stone lining the floors, wooden tables, and muted music, this organic gourmet vegan restaurant even has carnivores raving about the incredible food. Appetizers include spring rolls filled with fresh garden veggies with a Thai dipping sauce, and a cosmic corn bread packed with cilantro and chiles. Entrees range from a coconut curry to the daily pizza. Lots of salads, wraps/sandwiches, and sinful-looking (but healthy) desserts round out the always-changing menu. There's live entertainment every night and a terrific vegan brunch on Saturday and Sunday. If you want a quick drink or snack, the Lotus Root, 4-1384 Kuhio Hwy. (the previous location for this restaurant), offers just-baked goods, ice cream, juices, and smoothies. Once a month Blossoming Lotus presents a "Vegan Luau," an all-you-can-eat vegan buffet plus Polynesian music and dancing for just $25 per person.

- Frommer's