BYOB

MCS Grill: Family-Friendly Dining with Local Flavors

Local Tips and Insider Information

When visiting MCS Grill, be sure to ask about the daily specials, as the menu frequently features exciting dishes like the delicious Furikake Crusted Salmon and the Oxtail Soup available on Mondays. This family-style restaurant also encourages visitors to explore vegetarian options, including a unique Vegetarian Loco Moco made with a handmade veggie patty, which has received rave reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of dishes does MCS Grill serve?

MCS Grill offers a variety of dishes, including local favorites like steak, chicken, fresh island fish, vegetarian options, and house-baked desserts.

Is MCS Grill suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! MCS Grill provides several vegetarian options on its menu, including the highly recommended vegetarian Loco Moco.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?

Yes, MCS Grill is a BYOB establishment, so feel free to bring your favorite beverages to enjoy with your meal.

What are the restaurant’s hours of operation?

MCS Grill is open for lunch from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM and for dinner from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Customer Reviews

One satisfied customer exclaimed, “The food here is absolutely great! They have real vegetarian food, and the chili pepper chicken was crispy and juicy.”

Another guest highlighted the “best coconut shrimp” they ever had, complemented by “amazing saimin” and generous portions of grilled Mahi Mahi.

Visitor Information and Practical Details

MCS Grill operates from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM for lunch and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM for dinner, making it easy to fit into your day. The restaurant features a casual, family-friendly atmosphere and is well-known for its fast and friendly service.

Sustainability Practices and Community Contributions

MCS Grill actively engages with the local community by utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This commitment to local sourcing not only supports Kaua’i’s agricultural economy but also enhances the quality and flavor of the dishes served.

Local Historical or Cultural Context

MCS Grill is nestled in Hanapepe, an area known for its rich history as a former center of the island’s sugar plantation industry. The restaurant reflects the diverse culinary influences of Kaua’i, integrating local Hawaiian traditions with flavors from Asian cuisines, which is evident in dishes like saimin and teriyaki burgers. Dining here allows guests to experience a slice of local history and culture, served in a welcoming environment embraced by the community.

More Information

MCS Grill, located in Hanapepe, is a casual family-style restaurant that offers a diverse menu featuring local favorites. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, MCS Grill presents a variety of options ranging from hearty meats and fresh island fish to vegetarian selections. This establishment is conveniently situated at the traffic light in Hanapepe, making it an accessible spot for both locals and visitors.

The menu at MCS Grill includes various steak and chicken dishes, alongside flavorful vegetarian options. Noteworthy items include their MCS Combo, a popular choice among diners, featuring crispy chili pepper chicken paired with savory sides like saimin and mac salad, the latter made with spaghetti instead of traditional elbow macaroni. Additional offerings such as the vegetarian loco moco, made with a handmade veggie patty and a unique white gravy, cater specifically to those seeking plant-based meals. Diners have praised the baked goods, with desserts baked fresh daily, including their signature lilikoi chiffon pie and apple cobbler served with ice cream.

MCS Grill takes pride in its commitment to local flavors, frequently featuring Kauai shrimp in their dishes and ensuring generous portion sizes that are ideal for sharing. Customers enjoy a variety of specials throughout the week, such as oven-roasted BBQ chicken, furikake-crusted salmon, and more, demonstrating a wide selection to suit various tastes.

Not only does MCS Grill focus on food quality, but it also emphasizes a welcoming community atmosphere. Being a BYOB establishment allows diners to enjoy their meals with their choice of beverages, enriching their dining experience. Regular patrons note that MCS Grill is a preferred spot for its value, casual vibe, and genuine island hospitality.

Guests who visit MCS Grill can expect a laid-back dining experience complemented by attentive service. Whether stopping in for lunch or dinner, visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse menu that reflects the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, making it a true hidden gem in Hanapepe.

Arigato, Mrs. Roboto: Paniolo Santa Maria BBQ – A Flavorful Tradition

Local Tips and Insider Information

When visiting Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ, be sure to try the Diablo Fries, topped with chili, cheese, glazed tri-tip, and jalapeños for a unique and spicy treat. Also, take note of their open mic night every Wednesday, which showcases incredible local talent and can be a delightful surprise during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cuisine does Paniolo specialize in?

Paniolo offers Santa Maria-style barbecue featuring tri-tip, country-style ribs, and a variety of unique dishes that reflect a California culinary tradition.

Is there live music at Paniolo?

Yes! They have live music every night from Tuesday to Saturday, making it a vibrant place for dining and entertainment.

Can I bring my own drinks?

Absolutely! Paniolo is a BYOB establishment, allowing you to bring your own beverages without any corkage fee when you purchase food.

What is the atmosphere like at Paniolo?

The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, often with a lively outdoor stage where guests can enjoy dancing and live performances.

Customer Reviews

One visitor praised Paniolo as a “friendly family-run homestyle BBQ and live music joint” located right in downtown Kapaa, highlighting the tender and juicy tri-tip sandwiches. Another delighted guest shared that the Big Mo Rib Burger was “amazing” and noted the fun and lively atmosphere created by the live music, making it an enjoyable dining experience for the entire family.

Visitor Information and Practical Details

Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ is open Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM. While they don’t serve alcohol, patrons are encouraged to bring their own beverages. The restaurant features a casual indoor dining area as well as outdoor seating with a stage for live performances.

Sustainability Practices and Community Contributions

Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ engages in local community efforts and emphasizes a family-oriented dining experience, showcasing local musicians and food traditions that celebrate the diverse culinary landscape of Kauai and beyond.

Local Historical or Cultural Context

Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Santa Maria Valley in Central California, a region known for its unique barbecue style that emphasizes tri-tip and other smoked meats. This family-owned establishment brings those flavors to Hawaii, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy a taste of California’s BBQ culture fused with the hospitality and vibrancy of island life.

More Information

Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ, located in Kapaa, Kauai, offers an authentic taste of Central California’s Santa Maria-style barbecue. This family-run establishment proudly provides a menu inspired by over three generations of barbecue tradition, ensuring hearty portions and flavorful offerings. The Diaz family, who brought their time-honored recipes to Hawaii in the mid-1990s, has created a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

The menu features a range of grilled meats, most notably the tri-tip, which is seasoned and cooked over red oak, a signature element of Santa Maria barbecue. The tri-tip plate is traditionally served with fresh salsa, garden salad, beans, and garlic bread. Other standout dishes include country-style ribs, grilled chicken, and a selection of burgers, such as the “Big Mo” Rib Burger and the Pineapple Burger, each complemented by locally baked French rolls. Vegetarian options and seafood, including the grilled Ono plate, are also available.

Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ prides itself on its community vibe, hosting live music events from Tuesday through Saturday, enhancing the dining experience with local talent and allowing guests to enjoy dancing in an outdoor setting. The restaurant operates as a BYOB facility, which permits guests to bring their own beverages, creating a relaxed environment that resonates with the local culture.

In addition to its culinary offerings, Paniolo actively participates in community events and maintains a commitment to family values, as reflected in its operation by multiple generations of the Diaz family. The restaurant is well-regarded for its friendly service and dedication to customer satisfaction, contributing to its growing reputation as a prime destination for barbecue in Kauai.

Whether you’re craving perfectly cooked meats or looking for an engaging evening with live music, Paniolo Santa Maria Style BBQ serves as a notable addition to Kapaa’s dining landscape, inviting everyone to experience its unique culinary heritage and vibrant community spirit.