4. Restaurants

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler

2100 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI, 96756
  • (808) 742-7588
  • Store is closed

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler Menu

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Visit below restaurant in Koloa for healthy meals suggestion.

Subway ( 5516 Koloa Rd )
Koloa Deli ( 5476 Koloa Rd )

Visit below restaurant in Koloa for healthy meals suggestion.

Subway ( 5516 Koloa Rd )

  • Bob P.

    5 star for location and view. 5 star for the kind of beach place we love to go to. 4 star for decent appetizers and 3 star for warm beer. Suggest they do the ice bag in the pitcher trick so the beer stays drinkable cool.

    (4)

  • Kyle O.

    We weren't blown away by this place, it wasn't anything special and a lot of people raved about it, but I think the view was the best part of this place, and there are tons of places that have a great view AND great food and service. I wouldn't come back here again unless I was in town for a long time and ran out of options. Pros: 1. View is amazing, nice walk along the beach and waterfront to and from dinner, and you are up high so you can really see the state park and ocean nicely 2. Service was good, the waitress was very nice and attentive 3. Good local beer and it was cold, a plus 4. Nice breezy atmosphere, albeit kind of kitchy Cons: 1. Food wasn't great, it was just OK, the portions were small and there was something wrong with almost everything we ordered. Example: we got ahi tuna tacos, and there was so much fried shell and not enough fish, and the fish was tough and chewy. Another example: we ordered sliders (trio: beef, pulled pork, and steak) and they were really fatty and greasy and the buns were boring, requiring lots of ketchup. 2. Over priced, in comparison to other spots, and not a great value. 3. Gets crowded, so make a reservation, and even then be prepared to wait a while.

    (3)

  • Steven M.

    Party of 8. Place was very busy. Our waiter seemed intoxicated. I don't say this often but he was constantly cutting us off, making out of the ordinary comments, and mixed up orders and looked dazed and confused. The food wasn't that bad. The pupu was on the dry side of everything. I had the ahi steak for the first time and loved it, the raviolis were great. Service was just a bit of a buzzkill

    (3)

  • Nancy B.

    Great place! Our first meal in Kauai (doesn't include the pizza we had in Honolulu). Hubby had the special, which was a 7 oz. blackened Ahi Tuna steak with steamed veggies, Jasmine rice, and 2 large shrimp. (A bit spicy for my taste, but still good!) I had the creamy pesto with spinach, Gorgonzola, mushrooms, and grilled chicken. Also mahvelous, dahlink. I had 2 virgin "mocktails" and usually when you get those kind of drinks (you know, blended), there's always ice chunks in them. Not these! Very smooth. For dessert, I had the Creme Brûlée with Pacific Ginger. Perfect! Even hubby tried it because it had a hint of ginger. He liked it - sort of. He's not a custard fan. Oh well, more for me! Overall, for the price, I have to give them a solid 4!

    (4)

  • Anony M.

    Loved the Mai Tais so we came back for dinner. Across the street from Poipu Beach, ample parking, friendly people, great drinks and food, old school rock and roll music.

    (4)

  • Stephen R.

    First off...lets talk about stars. 4 stars is an average of the food and bar service. Breakdown? Here goes... 3.5 for the food. Crispy Coconut shrimp was excellent. Among the best. Kalua pig nachos above average. Slider trio had one great slider (Kalua pig), one fair (French dip) and one subpar (burger). 4.5 for the bar service. Fantastic Mai Tai (world famous, I hear). Ask for the Lin Hing Mui margarita (just wow). The piece de la resistance? Four Kona brews on tap at all times (personal fave? Castaway IPA. Natch). What pushes the whole operation over the edge from good to great? One word: Regan. The sassiest, most sarcastic, friendliest (stay on her good side) bartender on the island. Bravo, Brennecke's. Bravo. P.S. Give that girl a bonus!

    (4)

  • Karen W.

    We had lunch at Brennecke's this week. It was a fun spot for a casual lunch and drinks. I want to go back for sure. We had ----- Fish and chips (battered ono) and french fries - 5 stars! Fire Rock Pale Ale Ahi Tacos - 3.5 stars Margarita My biggest complaint: you need more ladies bathrooms. I think your women's room needs to be remodeled to hold two stalls and a sink. The one bathroom was disastrous the day I was there for lunch (Monday 7/20) as there was always a long line and the line forms right where your hostess is attempting to greet people. Having women wait in line for so long deflates the vacation fun and prevents us from ordering additional drinks.

    (3)

  • Brendon C.

    A good sports bar with amazing food. the staff seems genuine and fun. The prime rib here I had was really good and the drinks have all been not too sweet but well made and strong. A great place to watch sports if you're in Poipu Beach

    (4)

  • Chel R.

    Oh how I miss Kauai. And when I think of Poipu, not only does this beach offer the most breath taking sunsets and turtles swimming on their beach but it also has amazing eats. This particular place is a few steps from the sand and so glad we ended our night here. I was able to use my $5 off when you spend more than $50 upon Yelp check in. Woo hoo! 10 oz rib eye with veggies and mash. We ordered medium well but came out a tad bit more done than well. Linguini with clams was yummy. Pasta was aldente. Clam sauce was indeed flavorful. Coconut shrimp for appetizer was good. Bobby K. swore on it so good thing I actually took his recommendations and ordered it hahaha Mango colada was indeed stiff. Was a great change of pace from the nightly Mai Tai they gave me every night at the hotel. Staff was all pleasant and attentive. The view was amazing. #ilove #Kauai

    (4)

  • Scott S.

    Food can be hit or miss. When it's good it's great, but the misses are very bleh. Prices are way too high, but they get away with it since it's convenient and close to the beach. You'll get better bang for your buck elsewhere.

    (3)

  • Jenny F.

    The food was a little over priced for what it was. Decor was a little dated. View was nice, staff was friendly.

    (4)

  • Donald Kawika C.

    Love the views and the burgers still my favorite. They are know for their Mai Tai's, I live the Kona Lager! Great place to unwind after a long beach day or start your day with an awesome Bloody Mary!

    (5)

  • Kim S.

    Ate here yesterday after a 2 hour snorkeling session across the street. I had the clam linguini and husband had fish & and chips. Appetizer was nachos with Kaluha pork. Both had two drinks. Had the rum cake for dessert. Everything was good. Great views.

    (4)

  • Heidi D.

    We made reservations for 7pm, requesting a window table, so we could watch the waves and the sunset. Gah, I loved the view and the breeze...I smile now even thinking about it. Service was friendly and relaxed for sure! She was efficient and funny but not rushed at all. We didn't realize we had been there for nearly 2 hours. We started with drinks: Hubby started with Pineapple Express, son had a virgin pina colada and I had a mojito. (My only complaint was the drink. It was so overly inundated with mint that I was pulling out brown pieces, stems, etc. I could've had it remade but just wasn't caring enough to make a fuss. Not enough lime. Missed the mark for sure!) Ordered the coconut shrimp appetizer and another cocktail, which greatly made up for the first one. Tai Chi was the winner of all we tried! The appetizer was cooked perfectly but simply disappeared too quickly with a table full of hungry men. I ordered the special of the night - Ahi, shrimp, asparagus over creamy parmesan sundried tomato risotto: I've never had an Ahi steak so please forgive my awe over how good it was. Every bite I took made me happy. It was cooked medium rare, as suggested, and became the star of all our meals. Hubby and son kept requesting "one more taste." Hubby had the Ono fish and chips and personally, I wish we had tried this place sooner because we would have come back simply for the fish and chips. SO tasty without anything added except a little squeeze of lemon and sprinkle of salt. Son had the Creamed Pesto Rigatoni with Grilled Chicken Breast and he was quite pleased. Big enough portion to serve a teen boy's appetite. :) We ended with a shared dessert - the Chocolate lava cake. It was fine tasting and a pleasant end to our meal.

    (4)

  • PJ C.

    Often at places with locations like this the view is way better than the food. Not so here. The Hawaiian pork sandwich was excellent -tender and moist with a nice barbecue sauce than allowed the pork flavor to be tasted. The fries were battered, thin and crispy good. The burger was also good though not great - a bit overcooked, not medium rare. The Mai Tai was decent and the staff friendly and efficient. The one thing that was predictable were the high prices for what you got - had to pay for that view!

    (4)

  • Sherman I.

    It's been a long time since I been here and after A long time away from home I just experienced slight prejudice. Got served by a local girl and thought things were good until I was presented with my check and blatantly was asked to provide a form I.D. If paying with credit. Thought it was odd but did so no prob. Then watched two other tables pay for their meals with with credit and no ID check. Yes I am of a darker side of the demographic which are most locals on Kauai but don't treat us all like we are thieves.If you local and coming from out of town beware of this place.

    (2)

  • Amy L.

    Sport bar vibes with family-friendly environment. Poipu beach is stumbling distance from Brennecke's and as such you'll find yourself here hungry and ready to grub on some serious food from all the swimming you were just doing. They have a gluten-free menu are are willing to help you navigate around anything and have their favorites which they will happily recommend. Their signature cocktail: Original Brown Nipple with Banana was good. It tastes like banana bread had a one night stand with a Piña colada and this is their baby. Service is so-so, and the food is alright. But great for the view and the convenience.

    (2)

  • Devo S.

    We came in on a rainy night. It was also dark and way after sunset, so we got seated immediately at one of those coveted window tables! Woot! We got seated at 8:28pm, which is two minutes before their late happy hour. Unfortunately, our server stuck to that and we did not get the happy hour prices on our first two drinks. However, the food and drinks we ordered past 8:30pm were happy hour price. The lava flows I had were fine; not Hubby's fave Mai Tais (too watered down, and hard to compare to the best Mai Tais on Kauai at Mahiko Lounge); the Coconut Shrimp was very good. Brennecke's was fine' the staff were all very nice and efficient (except for that 8:28pm snafu), but we wouldn't rush to go back there when we've discovered other places for better happy hours. But at least we can say we've been there!

    (3)

  • Cindy D.

    What a treat this place was for a starving family of 4. Out snorkeling and hopping from beach to beach all day. Drinks, food, and service were wonderful. I had the best Margarita, called the Coconut Pineapple Ling Moi Margarita....Aaaaamazing! Ceviche was outstanding. Thank you.

    (5)

  • Craig D.

    (3) A-OK overall food & service... OUR MENU: DRINKS: * Kauai Coffee = (4) very good * Mai Tai = (3.75) Good * Water = (3.5) good FOOD: * Charred Opah = (3.75) good * BBQ ribs = (3) ok...kinda dry, needed more sauce... * Coffee = (2.5) meh...

    (3)

  • Nick B.

    Brennecke's is a solid, friendly restaurant located right near the beach. We had the nachos as an appetizer which were pretty good. The cheese wasn't particularly high quality, but you can't be too picky here. I had the Creamed Pesto Rigatoni for my main course which was great. I'm not a big fan of seafood (which the majority of courses included), but the restaurant had options. Our server, Gregg, was very nice and relaxed - definitely one of the best we've had in Hawaii. If you're in the area, Brennecke's is a great choice.

    (4)

  • Laura M.

    Was a great find if you are staying at the Grand Hyatt. It is super cheap for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast burrito was good around $7. They have sandwiches also around $7-8. Food is fresh and lots of drink and chips choices. We grabbed our stuff to go and went across the street to POIPU beach park to snorkel. Ate under a shady tree and handed out left overs to the wild chickens running everywhere. Love this place for fast and cheap food in Kaui.Never ate upstairs or had dinner or drinks.

    (4)

  • Kate R.

    We walked in with no reservations and were seated quickly and by the window. Terrific view and kind hostess. The four of us had a great dinner - Kalua pork tacos were yummy and my husband had the Mac nut mahi - good too (but I liked the tacos better). Kids menu is similar to other restaurants. Our server was super friendly and did a great job keeping drinks filled and answering questions. We felt like our business was appreciated.

    (4)

  • Nina S.

    We went on a drive yesterday and ended up here. I'm so glad we did! We walked up the stairs through the little shop and were immediately greeted warmly. We were seated right away. It took s few minutes to get water but after that we were waited on pretty fast. I ordered a lava flow and my husband ordered a Mai tai, both were delicious. Shortly after we ordered lunch, fish and chips/bbq pulled pork sandwich. Both were great, I especially loved the fries. Because you are on the second level you have a beautiful view of poipu beach. It was a wonderful lunch.

    (5)

  • Alicia C.

    How RUDE! I have never been more offended at a restaurant than when I left Brennecke's... I'll get to why after I fairly assess their drinks and food- which isn't much better. After some sun time on the beach, my father, sister and I decided to come to Brennecke's for some drinks and food. Upon entering we found that we were the first to wait, so we just sat at the bar and ordered a couple drinks. - I had the passion fruit daiquiri that was sweet, but a bit boring and had seemingly no alcohol. I can say this with some confidence because I had one at The Beach House that was delicious and had me buzzed... this one was lame. - My sister said that her drink was also a bit lame. It was kinda nice chatting to the friendly bartender who had actually lived in the bay area in CA for some time. When called to our table we were happy to have a view of the beautiful sunset outside. For starters, we had the ceviche which was a bit overly cooked and small for the price, but okay. It was served on a bed of lettuce with chips surrounding the plate. We also had the seared Ahi tuna which was served sashimi style with wasabi and ginger on the side. I was underwhelmed by the taste and portions. I ordered the clam chowder and the Ahi Tuna sandwich. - the chowder was good with a distinct clam flavor and a creamy base with no potatoes. It was a great consistency and had a good amount of clams. - the tuna sandwich was rare, as server Sweden notified me, and it was pretty tasty. However, the bun was a little dry. - My father's burger looked disgusting. It looked like a frost-bitten patty and he was very unhappy. We fed him bites of our food to satiate his appetite. - My sister's fish and chips were delicious. However, I didn't order them, so this review is based on MY experience at this establishment. When finished eating, I pointed out that I wanted to redeem the $5 coupon for spending $50 or more. I knew after two appetizers and three overly-priced entrees, that we were well over $50. Upon giving us the receipt, Sweden the waitress said, "I took the $5 off for Yelp, and if you're going to use a credit card, I will have to see your ID." .............................. Now I dine out a lot, and never have I ever had a waiter or waitress tell me that they needed to see my ID. I KNOW that we were the only brown folks in the place, and I KNOW that we looked kinda rough having just come from the beach, but just because I am taking advantage of the offers Yelp and Brennecke's chose to offer does not mean I should be judged and insulted! RUDE. And after such a terrible experience. I WILL NEVER RETURN HERE AGAIN. They are not worthy of their location and are highly overrated with the 3 1/2 stars they do have. We ended up paying with a hundred dollar bill, thank you very much! (nose in the air)

    (1)

  • bill s.

    In from Chicago the food here is average .the place looks better in photos then in person it's an upscale greasy spoon but some greasy foods places have unbelievable food this is just average nothing spectacular Service was average took about 15 minutes to get refills brought them after we finished dinner and the wait staff all looked lost manger was running around like crazy man looks to be busting his ass . It's a shame could be a cool place it just needs some updating .

    (3)

  • Dino D.

    "Chicago, Chicago that toddlin' town Chicago, Chicago I'll show you around I love it" but we are in Poipu, just across from a breathtakingly, beautiful, public beach. Yes, the owner is a proud White Sox & Bears fan - I get it, but can diners get an over-dose of canoes, waves, and surfing? Yup, the Mahalo hours are great. The food marginal. The chaos & Chicago memorabilia will be better off elsewhere .... like Illinois. The coconut shrimp were good (5 to an order). The short ribs surprisingly very good. My ahi tacos - overcooked, just the way I will eat fish, others thought they should have been seared and not cooked-through, the rice was stone-cold ( wouldn't eat it regardlessly) the beans were room-temperature - I could have waited to return to mainland's Wahoo. The wait time from order to table was longer than watching "The Descendants".

    (3)

  • Colleen D.

    Great food and drinks! $45 for 5 drinks and an appetizer my husband and I shared (and brought back leftovers). Staff is friendly. View is gorgeous. Pork is delicious.

    (4)

  • Jamie O.

    Service, drinks and food were really good. Not sure why they only have 3.5 stars which made we second guess if we should go back here after visiting 13 years ago. But I am so glad we did. I had the Ono with wasabi shrimp and it was great. My hubby got the ribeye special his steak had so much flavor. If you're in the area check it out they have a great sunset view too.

    (5)

  • Shrey T.

    Food was ordinary and close to $50 for 2 people. And after that -- when we asked for water to go, they said they don't do that but we can get it from their Deli downstairs. When we went there, they wanted us to pay for it. Needless to say I was not impressed by it. Although I'll have to give to it that the views were very nice. But still, pay for water to go after a meal there? Seriously?

    (1)

  • Cesar A.

    Meh. Typical tourist type of beach restaurant. The poke tacos were pretty good. But the fish in the fish and chips were shameful. When you come to the islands, the fish should be great. It wasn't. It had a THICK, doughy breading that shouldn't qualify as batter. Yes it doubled the size but the fish inside was TINY. This place was good in the past but not so much anymore.

    (3)

  • Christine N.

    Their Fish and Chips are the real deal here! It's not all batter which is what I like. You get a huge chunk of the fish. YUM! You get an awesome view of the beach once you are seated. I only stayed in Kauai for 4 days but my fiancé's sons wanted to come here because they raved about the clam chowder. :)

    (4)

  • B D.

    My husband and I wanted a place where we would be waited on after sitting down (many places in Kauai seem to be a spot where you walk up to a counter, order, and then sit down), so we chose this spot. My husband called ahead to make a reservation and we were seated promptly by a window per our request and it was just before sunset when we arrived, so we really enjoyed our view. They actually thanked us for making a reservation when we got there and let us know they appreciated it. The view was awesome- it almost looked fake. The place was packed when we got there and packed with a wait when we left. We ordered some mai tai's to start, which were tasty. My husband ordered the PuPu appetizer platter that had marlin, ahi, and a couple of other things on it. It was enough for one person to be full from. He really enjoyed it but wished it had come with a side of rice or something just to be able to have a bite of something else during the meal. He still thought it was really good and the fish was really fresh. I ordered the clam linguine with bacon. I could hardly believe that it came with like 2 dozen clams. I have never seen so many clams in my dish before. I was so impressed. My meal tasted amazing and I left feeling like I had ripped them off because I am accustomed to receiving a dozen or less shellfish out here in AZ when I order something like that. We also ordered a tasty dessert that we devoured. Our service was prompt, efficient, and friendly. We didn't have any issues while dining here like many people seem to complain about...maybe we are less picky or not as high maintenance than others- I'm not sure. Either way- we would definitely eat here again should we find ourselves back in this tropical paradise. PS- I gave this place 3 dollar signs because if you go and have an alcoholic drink, entree, and dessert, it can be pricy (although I think everything in Hawai'i is pricy). If you went and had a water/soft drink and only dinner, it would probably be one less dollar sign.

    (5)

  • Ron C.

    Good for happy hour but the prices are a little higher than normal. I got a little sticker shock when I began to order here. I could go cheaper elsewhere but as far as Poipu beach is concerned, this is the only place to eat and look right at the beach. It's funny, I've passed Brennecke's many times and never thought to go in. The host was very convivial and made you want to stay. I may return but it's not first on my list.

    (3)

  • Jane V.

    If you just want to eat try to go during off hours because the place can fill up quickly. Our visit was in December about 3:30 and by the time we left there were a few waiting for tables. My husband and I came to Kauai two years in a row. In all, we ate here about 5 times. Always left satisfied. The food always good. My husband likes a beer with lunch and they will give you samples to see which you would like to order. Just ask if you are not sure of the choice. Happy hour prices are comparable. Our server was an older senior gentlemen and I was surprised he could not recommend a drink that was not very sweet. He had to go ask. My drink was still too sweet and I could not finish it even though I kept adding water. I pretty much ended up with sugar water. Not sure what happen to the alcohol. In all.... good bar food. Drinks, not sure. Maybe I just ordered the wrong one.

    (3)

  • Jennifer M.

    A great place for a mid day snack and a Mai tai!!! Not the most impressive food, but who cares when you have that beautiful view of the ocean!! Aloha!!

    (4)

  • Tim A.

    Awesome chill beachfront spot on beautiful poipu bay. Happy hour was awesome; definitely have the Mai-tai and coconut shrimp. The staff is very attentive and informative. Check out the shop downstairs and book a tour or adventure. Their prices are better than most and you get a VIP discount card for all sorts of beach stuff and food and apparel.

    (4)

  • Erik A.

    Ordered a double cheese burger wrapped in lettuce. Meat patties were huge, and for a tourist trap location, the price was good. My wife ordered a salad that came with shrimp skewers. Great also.

    (5)

  • Carla S.

    The special? Delish. The Pupu platter? Yummy. The view? Gorgeous. After dinner, stroll Poipu beach and catch the sunset. Another perfect day in paradise.

    (4)

  • Jon E.

    This is a good place to eat. They have great bar/seafood type food and it is quite delicious. We had lots of appetizers and they were all delicious. The waitress was super friendly and played with our 3 and 5 year olds. I would go back.

    (4)

  • Vivian L.

    Ahi tacos are very good. Had them for the second time and even though they were cooked medium well, when they ask you if medium rare is ok, the fish was still moist. Tortillas taste homemade and the sauce is super tangy and garlicky...which I love. Be sure to try a Mojito. The twist w coconut rum and muddled pineapple instead of just mint is a nice touch. Wasn't too impressed with the Mai Tai. Too sweet but not bad for the price during happy hour 3-5pm. Very family friendly atmosphere and great spot to get out of the heat without missing the ocean. Oh. And get the nachos w BBQ Kalua Pork. Share these. Pretty sure anything you get with their Kalua Pork will be good. Service is friendly. Prices are on the high side. Cloth napkins with a sports bar vibe. Wait times are normal. Try this place at happy hour to take advantage of good prices on sliders, pork nachos, and shrimp.

    (4)

  • Hannah P.

    Wow! The 3 of us went here on a Wednesday night without reservations. They said it would be a few minutes for a table so we sat at the bar and ordered drinks. Hoku and Will were so nice and accommodating, they even asked us to sit with them for our meal! But, we were crossing our fingers for a beach window table. And, what do ya know, about ten minutes later we were being directed to a beach table! We were thrilled. Our server and the other staff were friendly and make our night a good one. The food was soo yummy! Especially the coconut shrimp appetizer i would definitely recommend! The only reason i did not give 5 stars is because of the bugs able to fly into us, our drinks, and food. I noticed some of the windows had screens but they really all should have screens in order to avoid this. Other than that we loved it! I would definitely go back!

    (4)

  • Ella C.

    EPIC HAPPY HOUR AND SO MUCH FUN!!!!!!! I highly recommend checking this place out if you are vacationing in Kauai!! Live Music on Saturday night and downstairs there is a little shop where you can also buy souvenirs! Totally loved it here! Must drink: -Mai Tai Must Eats: -coconut shrimp appetizer -fish and chips -clam linguine (surprising but yes its delicious) Misses: -Kalua Pig Nachos

    (5)

  • Amy D.

    We walked to Brennecke's in about five minutes from the Koa Kea. We had made a reservation for sunset, turns out the sunset isn't visible from Brennecke location. Still, we were seated upon arrival. Within five minutes we had our beverage and had Kalua Pork Tacos shortly after. Tacos delicious and fresh. Waitstaff and host quick and attentive; Gregg was a terrific waiter - he took a few minutes of his busy job to chat about Kauai, about which we had inquired. Would definitely go back.

    (4)

  • Jaime D.

    A hidden gem. Our condo was a block away and we ate and drank here THREE times over a 4 day quick trip. The view, food, and service was top notch. We will be staying near here from now on and plan to visit regularly. Thank you for making my first trip and first meal in Kauai memorable! It is a little spendy, but please remember... YOU ARE IN KAUAI. Everything is expensive.

    (5)

  • Angela R.

    Had the coconut shrimp appetizer and the slider trio. Both really good and a good price. We were here for happy hour. Mai Tai was the best prices drink for happy hour, but the mango mama was also delish.

    (4)

  • Mona L.

    Gross. I wish I had photos. Between the constant mosquitos coming at us by the window and flying on our food, there was a big LIVE BUG in my husband's coke drink at the bottom. So dirty. The place needs to be less busy so they can take time to notice there are bugs in the meal and drinks they serve. We were so grossed out we couldn't eat the rest of our bland poorly cooked meals. The prime rib tasted like feet and the mashed potatoes were salty and overly cooked and left sitting. Just all of it was bad. The location is the only positive here and we are never coming back.

    (1)

  • Tara G.

    Everything here was good but nothing was great. We went for happy hour and the service was prompt and happy. We got a pitcher of lava flow which two of us shared and didn't feel the alcohol at all. The coconut shrimp is definitely worth ordering, the sliders were fine - not bad but nothing special. The atmosphere was really pleasant - we got a seat by the window and enjoyed the view and the breeze. The cost was pretty high for happy hour but not too high for Kauai. All in all I think there's better places to eat but I'd go back in a pinch.

    (3)

  • Becky C.

    Stopped here for a drink and pupu after a morning at the beach. Ordered Kona beer which is well made, just pick the type you like to drink ( porter, IPA, lager, or pale ale) Coconut battered shrimp was Excellent!!!! Nachos were ok. Service was friendly and attentive. TVs were showing a BB game and open air windows looked over PoiPu beach.

    (3)

  • Fred W.

    Great food, great ocean view, and a wonderful sense of local flavor!

    (4)

  • Sheryl I.

    Great spot after a day at the beach! Service is great and good selection beer! Had Caesar salad, ahi sandwich and pesto pasta. Everything very good. Fun place!!

    (3)

  • EJ L.

    Second time at Brenneckes. Besides the spectacular setting, this is a perfect beach front restaurant/bar. No surprise, the fish is great. I had the pupu platter and it was awesome. First time for smoked marlin - fantastic. What's not to like - great spot.

    (4)

  • Sam E.

    Tasty risotto and salads. Rum cake was not very good. Nice setting overlooking ocean. Very nice service which for me is really important. I'd recommend:).

    (4)

  • Emily W.

    Love this place. We have been there two years in a row. Last year with our 3 month old with no reservations. It was crowded, but we were able to get take out from the bar. The place was hopping but the service was terrific and the ribs super yummy. The food was so good we came back this year with our now 15 month old who was dancing in her seat during our 10pm NYE dinner. We got a pitcher of mango daiquiri which was yummy but not very strong. We started with coconut shrimp (happy hour $10) super yummy. I ordered the steak special for dinner with came with scallops, asparagus and mashed potatoes. (See photo) My husband got the mahi special which came with two large grilled shrimp, veggies and polenta that he subbed for mashed potatoes instead. We had the same waitress from the year before and amazingly she remembered us and our little girl. Everyone was very nice. The owner came over to say hello and greet us. My husband had gone in earlier in the week and he remembered their chat. He was very nice. The staff was all exceptional. They brought us NYE hats and colorful beads and the waitress was happy to bring extra veggies for our little girl. Everyone was having a good time. You could hear The band clearly in the dining room and couples were getting up and spontaneously dancing. A wonderful way to bring in the new year. We finished off the night with a big lava cake and ice cream dessert. Total damage just over $100. Amazing. After dinner we went back to our hotel the Sheraton where for 2-3 times as much money people were not nearly having as good a time as we had.

    (5)

  • Thomas G.

    I liked Brennecke's. My family and I visited after a day spent at Poipu Beach, which is located right across the street. The staff is very friendly and accommodating to children. My wife and I both had Mai tais which were excellent. We shared the coconut shrimp which was very good and the nachos which were less so. Nachos are touch and go for me. I think the way to do it is to place the chips on a flat dish and place the ingredients on top of the chips (not excessively). I think the "chip pile" results in soggy chips at the bottom of the pile and uneven distribution of ingredients. Brennecke's uses the "pile" method and it made for a mediocre nacho dish. But whatever. Overall the ambience was excellent, the drinks were good and the view was great. I recommend it strongly.

    (4)

  • Anais H.

    Order nachos and looks like they don't even know how to prepare them . The guacamole tasted like out of a can , it had a sour flavor . Most of it was chips and all the cheese stuck on one side only . For the price they charged it ain't worth it . The only good thing was the coconut shrimp and fish tacos . I'm from California and I will definitely if I come again to this island I will never come here

    (1)

  • Randal M.

    This place was good, got there at the wrong time, waited for maybe 30 mins to get food. But the food was ok, staffing was great

    (3)

  • Jon P.

    I liked this restaurant very much. The food and drinks were appropriately priced and the quality was excellent. The view of the beach and ocean was fantastic. We were promptly seated on a Sunday afternoon and enjoyed the coconut shrimp for an appetizer. We enjoyed dinners of fresh Ahi tuna and a fish tacos platter; both were excellent and cooked perfectly. The Mai Tais were made well. The manager went to all the tables to make sure everything was right. Overall, this will be a destination when we travel next to Poipu.

    (4)

  • Stacey J.

    This was a fun meal to round out our trip. We tried making reservations, but none were available in our preferred time frame. We were quoted a 25 minute wait and waited about 35. Not too bad. We grabbed a couple drinks at the bar. I was a bit nervous as the bartender looked at us multiple times before offering us a drink then forgot my Mai tai at first. Our server Sweeden was really great. Drinks were decent. Coconut shrimp was awesome as well as the charbroiled opah and fish and chips. Worth checking out if you are nearby and looking for a more casual, less expensive place to try.

    (4)

  • Tanna T.

    Great service, food and casual atmosphere. Enjoyed the Aha, Opah, and linguini with clams. Our server, Chelsea, was outstanding. Would go back!

    (5)

  • Russell M.

    We had a late lunch/early dinner here after a day at the beach across the street. I read a couple of reviews and they sounded good so we tried it. We were seated immediately at a nice table upstairs overlooking the beach. Our waiter was very friendly and attentive. The fare was pretty good . . . sort of sports bar type stuff with a local flare. I had the ahi plate which was average to slightly above. Not bad . . . a tad dry like it either been sitting around for a while. Tasty nonetheless. Everyone else in my party seemed to enjoy what they ordered. Nice size portions although my ahi plate was pretty modest in size. My wife had coconut shrimp which I thought was one of the best I've ever tasted. Cool place with excellent views of the beach action across the way. I recommend it.

    (4)

  • Kerry K.

    Nothing stood out about this place when we were there. The decor and atmosphere were pretty typical for Kauai and half of our party of 8 enjoyed their meals, while the other half wasn't impressed.

    (3)

  • Michelle B.

    Food to match the view---Spectacular! The coconut shrimp appetizer is one of the best I have ever eaten. Fish tacos were great as was the Salad special. Enjoy a Mai Tai while looking at Poi Pu Beach equals a great way to spend an afternoon.

    (5)

  • Erin H.

    This is only the second review I have done, but felt compelled after almost a week in Kauai. We have only really enjoyed a couple of meals in the Island and this place is one of them! The atmosphere, service and food were excellent! We had the same meal twice!! The Seared Ahi appetizer and salads. The Ahi is excellent!! The view of the Ocean is great as well.

    (4)

  • Shib W.

    This place is your nightmare vacation dining spot. Let me check off the essentials: - Crowded, long wait for a table (made me think it was worth the wait) - Service friendly enough but bumbling and slow - Food expensive for typical beach-side boring offerings - Food unbelievably underwhelming. We should have ordered everything vegetarian because it was a crime for anyone to kill a living creature just to turn it into such unappetizing food. Fish tacos, just awful - tasteless with tasteless sauce. Nut crusted fish - again, tasteless with off-putting texture, Supposedly creamy mashed potatoes were gummy, tasteless, and awful. I am both surprised and not surprised that this place was crowded. We won't ever eat there again as it's about the worst value in Kauai *and* I wouldn't eat the food for free anyway. The one good thing I can say is that it keeps a certain amount of people from crowding up the actually good places around Koloa. I thought about two stars but that just wouldn't be honest, so, there you go Brennecke's, one star - you earned it.

    (1)

  • Evan W.

    I came here with my family on our last night in Kauai. We were a relatively large group (8 adults and 2 children) and had a reservation. Our table was available right when we arrived, which was very nice. However, one of our group had a broken leg and the restaurant is on the top floor and not wheelchair accessible, so I would not recommend this place to a person who has trouble going up stairs. Once we were all seated we had a few moments of sticker shock because the prices were quite a bit higher than we expected. The yelp $$ price range is accurate and most meals cost around 15-25$, not including a drink. The cost would have been fine, but the quality and quantity of the food was very underwhelming for the price. I ordered a 5-6 piece coconut shrimp and a bowl of clam chowder for ~17$. As other reviews mentioned the view of poipu beach was quite nice, but there are no windows in the restaurant so on a cool or windy night you can either dine in the elements or close the metal blinds (which the management seemed to discourage) and not have a view at all.

    (2)

  • Sikora A.

    Server was very sweet and there was a nice view, however, the actually food is not so great. I think people come here to drink, then the food tastes better? Was not impressed.

    (2)

  • Kevin O.

    Great food for the whole family. Excellent atmosphere. Friendly staff. Perfect location.

    (4)

  • Earl G.

    Great place to meet family and have fun drinks and a delicious meal. The music was great and not too loud. We had drinks while we waited for a table, which gave us time to break the ice and start to talk about family. Once we were seated, the service was great. We had a cheeseburger and fish and chips. Both were cooked to perfection. This is a very popular spot for anybody who's at Poipu beach

    (5)

  • Sarah S.

    When I went to this restaurant, it has a collection of college pennants and shirts. Also, I drank the world's famous Mai Tai. You should try it too!!!!!!

    (4)

  • Peter G.

    I had the ribs, which were quite good. I tried my guests' opah and ahi, both of which were tender and flavorful. Service was prompt, and we got in in ten minutes without a reservation. Good break from the hotel.

    (4)

  • William C.

    This place was exactly what we were looking for on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Beautiful views of the beach with a natural breeze flowing through the bar. The chicken sandwich, French dip, and fries were silly good. We had the ceviche appetizer which wasn't great so I would avoid the fish. Service was great

    (4)

  • Brynn F.

    Mango Madness, you have my heart! We also had Mai Tai's which were delicious. Great bartender with a wonderful vibe and awesome people. We're just visiting for a few hours, but it's definitely a great stop off spot. We didn't try any food on this visit but what we saw on other people's tables looked super yummy. Stop in for a drink to cool off after the beach-- you won't be disappointed!

    (5)

  • Lucky T.

    Coconut Shrimp, fish and chips , pineapple express, mai tai , folks this all added up to a great time and great food. The people that work there, are great even gave us suggestions for food trucks for later. The drinks for you 21+ are awesome. The price is a little higher than eating out in arizona but I recommend go during happy hour times and drinks are cheaper and still awesome . I will and have gone back. Also coconut shrimp is awesome , wait for it awesome

    (5)

  • april k.

    This review is mainly for the downstairs deli - 5 stars Went here kind of by accident because we were hungry and it was right next to our place. Then remembered why we don't eat here. The staff and service at Brennecke's were excellent, but the food was nothing special and really overpriced. (2 stars for the food, 5 stars for the service and the wonderful friendly staff) The downstairs deli however was a little secret gem. The panini sandwiches were amazing, all three were excellent for lunch, or the breakfast burritos for the morning. Not anything astounding, but really tasty sandwiches, filling and great value.

    (4)

  • A L.

    Brennecke's catered our wedding and did an awesome job! They set up everything and we also had a bartender through them that everyone loved. We received compliments on the food, would highly recommend for their catering services!

    (5)

  • George B.

    After being referred to Brennekes by a local as her "favorite happy hour", my wife & I and our two friends spent our precious afternoon making the trek from Lihue. The atmosphere was casual, but the setting & view superb! Since the crowd was light, we asked one of the servers if we could wait for a table next to the window. He seemed a bit annoyed, but said OK. We made our way to the bar for a drink and I could hear the wait staff complaining that tables were now "out of order". The bartender seemed stressed, as did some of the servers. It wasn't due to understaffing, as lots of of them were available. Our server (he told us his name was Falcon) happened to be the same person who tried to seat us originally. His attitude was poor - and he seemed inconvenienced to be helping us. My wife and I had ordered Mai Tai's at the bar (she didn't care for the overly lime taste). As we made our way to the table, our friends were just ordering two Mai Tai's for themselves. Falcon had just taken the order. I asked him if they could make another choice, but he said the order had already been placed (?!?!). I was OK with mine - and they were too (thankfully). We ordered our food, and even though I stated a gluten-sensitivity, he pushed to sell the guava sauce - a $5.99 upgrade on nachos. "You're not gonna die - you should order it". OK fine. Our friend is a sinus cancer survivor, which necessitates lots of water. We asked Falcon for a glass, but he said "when I get a minute" (seriously). After 6 -7 minutes, including his long conversation with the folks seated immediately next to our table, another server came by with water. The water station was literally 3 feet from us, and I was tempted to get it myself, but I didn't want to agitate our server any more than necessary. Our food arrived and was quite delicious. The "$5.99 guava sauce" was difficult to find. Our entire experience was significantly improved when Hoku came by and said "hello" to us!! He refilled our water glasses, asked about the taste of our food, and welcomed us to the restaurant. He also cleared our plates when we we finished. We found out later that he was the son of the owner, but that didn't matter. He was GENUINELY interested in making certain that we had a great experience! Falcon arrived to drop off our bills and we inserted our credit cards into the folder. He required that we show our ID's, which was a surprise, since we didn't see anyone else get asked. He claimed they've had fraud recently (we are two couple's in our late 50's & early 60's). We complied. As he picked up the credit cards, he looked away and nonchalantly said "thank you for your service". That was the last straw. I said "excuse me, but what did you say, and what do you mean by that?" I startled him and he didn't quite know how to respond. He said "I mean, I enjoyed serving you". Baloney. My wife explained to the server that he never made good on the water request, and she told him about our friends cancer issue. He seemed to be apologetic - but his tip was at stake, and Hoku was standing by to see how this was going. I had several words with Hoku, complementing him on listening to us. We weren't rude, we weren't demanding, we simply felt like our visit was an inconvenience - unlike any experience we've had on the island thus far. We travel to Hawaii as a family at least once a year and I come several times a year for business. We are respectful and considerate to everyone, as we know we are guests in someone's home state. I hope that Hoku can help his server staff to adopt his friendly and welcoming approach to guests on the island. Not everyone is cut out for assuring great guest experiences. Good luck Hoku & family!! Aloha.

    (2)

  • Billy P.

    An amazing variety of the native culinary tastes. As important is the 6 star view from the second floor open windows drinking in the pacific rim! AMAZING and highly recommended after a day of feeding fish...

    (5)

  • Abrpga B.

    Great location, good service but truly awful food at outrageous prices. The previous reviewer must be crazy or biased (employee maybe?) For example, I had the fish and chips, which at $19.95, is hardly "reasonably priced." On top of being very expensive, it was awful. The fish is supposed to be covered in a nice crunchy shell. Instead, it is battered in a thick chewy shell and the fish is too dry. This is easily the worst fish and chips that I have ever had. My wife's burger was just okay but given the high price, I do not recommend it. Lastly, the previous reviewer said, "Great people-watching if you get a seat near a window facing the beach." I do not understand this because the restaurant is on the second floor and across the street from a park. It's not even on the beach and you can't see anyone! Avoid this place unless you are desperate, which is quite possible, given the other crappy choices in the area. One star for food one star for a nice view of a park and the ocean in the distance.

    (2)

  • Stuart M.

    Hadn't been to Brennecke's in a couple of years and the last time I was there it was mediocre at best. This time was a different experience. The food was good to very good (my 4 stars is actually 3.5). The fish is fresh and well prepared. The service was friendly and pretty fast. The atmosphere is casual and you can't beat the view of Poipu beach. It's a decent place for kids but really more for grown-ups. The parking isn't much of a problem.

    (4)

  • Joseph W.

    If you want anything more demanding on the kitchen than a huge plate of nachos, beer, and the salad bar, you're SOL. If you are OK with nachos and swatting flies away from the salad bar and eating purple Taro rolls and watching the beach, then this place is for you. I'm not OK with anything here, but I've had so much worse and at least the staff was nice, if not slightly incompetent. Seems like a killer place to watch a sunset, but that would have meant sitting there for about 4 hours. and that's a LOT of effing nachos!

    (2)

  • Toni M.

    I can't believe I'm the first to review this!! It's a longtime favorite of ours. The location is fabulous and the food has been good, although prices have risen considerably since we were here last. We were joined today by our friends, Sally and Mike, who flew from Maui for a few days w/ us. We took a vote and chose Brenneke's for dinner tonight. We were greeted warmly and seated immediately. Service was friendly and efficient. We had mai tais, which were very good. They offered four types of fish prepared two ways, plus other preparations. They also offer the option of two types of fish, which is what husband chose: opah and ono, the former sauteed w/ butter and lemon and the latter grilled and topped w/ mango salsa. Sally and Mike both ordered ono, grilled and I had opah sauteed. All fish dinners came w/ the salad bar, which was fresh and generous, w/ very sweet tomatoes and carrots as well as broccoli and kim chee and several prepared salads. The fish was a generous amount and was well prepared. It was accompanied by fresh vegetables. We could have had potatoes or rice but most of us chose extra vegies. We were all pleased.

    (4)

  • Alan L.

    Had a lite, late dinner here --salad bar and mushrooms stuffed w/ shrimp and chicken satay. The appetizers were ok, salad bar by itself is $9 which is overpriced for what it is. This was a reminder to either order a full meal or a sandwich (for which the salad bar costs $4) Sent my first drink back because it was too sweet; got a replacement after a while, but when the bill came, both drinks were on it. It took the waitress 2 tries to get it correct. Service was not up to usual standards --didn't get water I had asked for, had to get our own clean plates for the appetizers, etc. We'll be back, but be more careful in ordering.

    (3)

  • Kyle C.

    I had the fish and chips and they were extremly fresh but a little mushy and mostly dark meat. The service here was average I'd say. This place is an ok lunch place but there are far better ones here on the island.

    (3)

  • Sylvia C.

    I'm not as nice as Melissa. This place didn't live up to it's hype. I would give it 2 stars but the view was awesome, drinks were good and our waiter was really nice.. Other than that, I thought this place was f'ing expensive considering the quality of the food. Maybe I was just disappointed by the seafood. I figured, we're on an island therefore the seafood should all be fresh right? We discovered the lobster was shipped in frozen from Maine. So I ordered the fish which was just okay. Come here for a sunset drink and an appetizer, but I wouldn't recommend staying for a full-on dinner.

    (3)

  • Robin A.

    Amazing fish and chips! Couldn't get enough of it! Great location, casual bar atmosphere, but had a cranky waitress. No big deal.

    (3)

  • Sarah J.

    We walked over for lunch from the Marriott beach expecting to go to the Deli next door and then came upon this, I think next time I would head to the deli. Service was ok, we were seated right away. We ordered the fish and chips *heavy batter, good but too much for lunch* Salad Bar - fresh lettuce with a few toppers to choose from, could use expansion for 8.95 Pork Nachos- huge pile of nachos, generous portion but the pork was fatty in too many places and tough to get a taste of all layers with all that was piled on. Overall- their lunch menu would be better offered at dinner with lighter sandwiches available at dinner. Total bill for three people $58 *two salad bars, nachos, fish and chips and two mixed drinks.

    (2)

  • m t.

    i like going here. it's tradition for our family. however the fish is really pretty expensive for what you get. i do like the view and the atmosphere and will probably continue going here.

    (3)

  • eliza b.

    Awesome spot! This is the only restaurant we visited twice during our trip to Kaua'i, partly because it was close to our condo, partly because it was reasonably priced with excellent food. I had the Opa and the Fish'n'Chips, both were outstanding. You could tell that the fish was unbelieveably fresh. Fun atmosphere, pretty good service (although a bit slow on one of our visits), and a nice salad bar with excellent taro rolls. Great people-watching if you get a seat near a window facing the beach. Also you can roll right off of Poipu Beach in a beach outfit for lunch and they could care less.

    (4)

  • Nope N.

    Expensive, but well worth the price. The fish and chips was delightful, although they forgot the malt vinegar. Service is slow, but this is understandable when you get there and see how many tables are left at lunch. 1, 2,... oh, 3. Out of maybe 30 or 40. Another member of our group loved the maitai. The drinks were probably the worst thing because of the high price. A coke is $3. However, a most other drinks are $5, which is low for their quality. I would recommend this to anyone near Poipu or Koloa.

    (5)

  • Christopher S.

    This place is definilty for the view, but the food isin't that bad either. It's 2nd floor dining with a great view of the beach. I had the "Ahi Tuna Taco's" and enjoyed them. My wife and her firend felt their dishes were average. Would I go here again, probably, but for the view!

    (3)

  • jean r.

    Great location and good food! We went during an afternoon after the lunch rush so we got our table right away. The service was excellent. Loved the pork tacos!

    (5)

  • Chelsea C.

    Awesome view. Great happy hour! Decent priced drinks. And very very friendly/great service! We went here for s post-snorkel lava flow and it was perfect!

    (4)

  • Edward C.

    I've been to some very touristy resorts in my day, and they all have their own proverbial "tourist traps". You know the places where guide books send you; the nice beach or mountain with the nice view. The places that would be really cool if someone didn't stick a "trap" right next store, serving ordinary food and drinks at extraordinary high prices? Well this place is one of those. Expect to pay double than normal prices for average food in a dumpy greasy atmosphere. You know the type that should have been updated 10yrs ago. It adds up to greedy owners who can never make enough money from tourists who save for years to take a vacation to this wonderful island. Avoid if you can. Buy food from local market in Koloa and eat on the beach with even better view.

    (1)

  • Merritt V.

    The location is what makes this place. The food is ok but the prices are way too high for what you get. Stop by the shaved ice place down stairs it's better than the food.

    (3)

  • Lindsey B.

    Excellent restaurant! Great good and great service. Overlooking a park and ocean adds to the ambiance! I'd definitely come back next time I'm on the island!

    (5)

  • Candace G.

    We went for happy hour and got a pitcher of piña coladas, they tasted a bit more like ice cream though and were too sweet. The scenery is beautiful and the place has its own charm, more about the location than high quality food or drinks.

    (2)

  • Edward I.

    Had a wonderful lunch with shrimp and fish. Delightful staff and unbelievable view of beach. Great greeter. We need a franchise in Salt Lake. Excellent all around dining experience

    (4)

  • Rose L.

    Fun, casual, great service. Mai Tais a bit weak, try the tai chi's. Great prime rib sandwich. Skip the pork on the nacho's!!

    (5)

  • Derek L.

    Great spot, great service, and yummy food.

    (4)

  • Candy P.

    Walked over after a few hours at the beach just across the way. Sat upstairs and enjoyed a great view of the ocean while we dined. Ordered the chicken sandwich and drinks, a piña colada and a chi chi. The sandwich was very good. Chicken was juicy and had a tasty sauce on it. The drinks were traditional and perfectly refreshing ( not overly sweet). The staff was friendly and offered good suggestions.

    (4)

  • Mike V.

    Good food - kamaina platter was excellent. Food is a bit pricey though. But the location was excellent. Oceanfront dining.

    (3)

  • Doug E.

    Mediocre. Fun atmosphere, employees are nice and helpful but the food is not that flavorful and overpriced for what you get. Go to Keokis instead.

    (3)

  • Phil L.

    We had a great meal and loved the friendly staff. I would have given five stars but for the price and the feeling of being a bit rushed out so the table could be turned over. I thought the charbroiled Opah was cooked perfectly, juicy and bursting with flavor. Everyone in our party enjoyed their dishes. The rum cake and ice cream pie was delicious. The view of Poipu beach was stunning. Reservations highly recommended.

    (4)

  • Julie K.

    We have been to Brennecke's multiple times over the past dozen or so years, and don't understand all the bad reviews. You just have to know what to expect before you come. This is not a fancy restaurant with exquisite French sauces and a spectacular wine list. This is the neighborhood family restaurant where they REALLY know how to cook fish. It's that simple. One other thing: MAKE RESERVATIONS! It will save you heartache waiting for a table. We started the dinner with their specialty cocktails, lava flows, which were a bit sweet for my taste, but liked by the rest of my family. For pupus, we had the Thai Chicken Satay (misspelled on the menu as Sate, but who's picky?) which was spicy and delicious with a rather bland peanut sauce. Either skip the sauce or salt it a bit like we did, and it was fine. We also had the coconut shrimp which was succulent and flavorful with or without the guava sauce that same with it. I had the special: grilled opakapaka on a bed of risotto with bacon, corn, and trumpet mushrooms. The fish was perfectly cooked with crisp crust (perfect grill marks) and moist center and the risotto was well-executed and yummy. My husband had the macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi with rice and steamed veggies (zucchini and broccoli), also cooked to perfection and scrumptious. My daughter ordered the ahi fish tacos with the ahi cooked a precise medium rare, as requested, with soft tortillas almost over-stuffed with delicious ahi, butter lettuce, crema, and crumbled queso. Skip the scoopful of "Mexican" rice which was gummy and tasteless, the black beans were meh. As I said, these people know how to cook a fish. Stick with it. For dessert we split their version of the molten chocolate lava cake with Lapperts vanilla bean ice cream, the best we've had so far. We favored the version here because the outer cake is actually cake, not dense brownie. One was enough for the 3 of us. As always, Brennecke's, the next time we're in Kauai, we'll be back!

    (4)

  • Melanie C.

    Have been here several times and although the menu seems a little more limited then I remember from 2 years ago. The food is delicious and the service was fantastic! Chelbie was very patient with our picky friend, making suggestions that she ultimately loved. Will come back when ever were in the area. Thank you Chelbie!

    (5)

  • Ray S.

    The location has a great view, too bad the food didn't match. I was expecting better quality for the price. I felt like I was being up sold on everything. I do realize the waitresses get tips but they will not get one with that kind of attitude. The portions seemed small for the price as well. I heard they had great happy hour prices, I would not like to see the regular priced menu.

    (2)

  • alanna m.

    Don't get the fish tacos they have no flavor and the prices are high for the lie budget out of the box food you get. Views good nice open air feel.

    (2)

  • Cynthia G.

    Nice Beach restaurant. I went there on a recommendation from a co-worker. The view was great and I was happy with the food as well. This is more a nice "casual" place as opposed to an over the top restaurant. Great atmosphere!!!

    (5)

  • James K.

    Great Ono fish & chips. The service was awesome and the waitress was super frendly. The plantation tea was recommended buy the waitress and it was very good.

    (5)

  • Nicole L.

    My boyfriend made reservations for us for our anniversary here. The place was cute and the service was good but the place was a tad small. We got to sit on the deck looking out on the ocean which was very nice. I got the mac nut crusted mahi mahi which was good but seemed a little pricey for what I got. The lava flows were really good though. We got reservations right at sunset and it was really crowded so I'd recommend a reservation.

    (3)

  • Tom C.

    Welcome back home that is the way I feel when I come to Brennecke's Bob works hard at keeping the place running and looking good .Houko bring the funny side to the bar .I have spent many a night drinking beer and eating dinner i have always been treated well what is real nice lets say your flying in late and you have a nice size party of people they will stay open for you if you call a head and party .No body likes prices going up so I cant eat here as much but over all prices are what the Island demands .only one bad thing is there burger why you would use a Costco frozen burger at a place like this ???? they must do that so you will buy the wonderful sea food lol . with all that said wait staff is funny mix but all do there job I am happy overall . Best time for the bar is during the day or after dinner hour ends . I will be back in again soon . MY tie

    (5)

  • Chelsea D.

    This place is expensive five shrimp for ten dollars with no sides. However the food taste great. I would recommend getting the Maui Maui, it was very tasty, the coconut shrimp and the pork tacos. I mean yes this place is pricy but the seafood is great and the services is great. The view is amazing and I can imagine it is packed during sunset. We ate both times after sunset so it was easy to get seated!

    (4)

  • Salina Z.

    Fish and chips (granny size) were surprisingly delicious! The fish tasted fresh and was not overly fried; very meaty/tender/juicy. It was definitely overpriced but conveniently located across the street from Poipu Beach. Took it to go, so can't comment about the service.

    (4)

  • Andrea V.

    Exceptional service, good, & view!! And Bob's favorite desert was unreal...and Bob coming by to endorse his dessert and tell his story, was the creme de la creme!!

    (5)

  • David L.

    I love the fish and chips here in the firerock beer batter. Along with that I love the Mai Tai's. Between 3-6 is happy hour, excellent time to go for drinks because they don't weaken their drinks.

    (4)

  • Christian H.

    Great views of the beach & obviously the popular spot in town for local and tourists alike. The place is pretty busy, so be ready to have to wait for a table for 15-20 minutes at lunch. The food is nothing to write home about, but the service was nice & the owners were actually circulating the place interacting with the guests - shows they really care!

    (4)

  • Paul W.

    Good food. Very friendly and fun vibe. Lots of great menu options. Will eat here again.

    (4)

  • Andy W.

    we stopped in to compare the mai-tai to others and grab a snack. We had the coconut shrimp which we enjoyed. The maitai was good but not excellent. the maragarita was the same. wife got another blended drink to try and mimic one we had elsewhere (mango daquiri with a li hing mui salt rim. She sucked that one down right quick. Server was quite pleasant. Can't speak much for anything else. The manager on duty was very talkative with the tables he sat. I didn't care for his used car salesman chattiness but if you're into that kind of thing, you wouldve enjoyed yourself. Thankfully he didn't seat us so i didn't have to deal. I would probably go back.

    (4)

  • Chris R.

    Arrived at where we were staying for the week late in the afternoon so we decided to check this place out since it was close by and we were not impressed. One of us got the fish tacos and it was very bland and tasted of low quality tortilla. I got seared tuna and it was very dry. For what the charge, the quality of food did not match. The service and atmosphere were pleasant.

    (2)

  • Phil C.

    Went here for a late afternoon snack while a few friends chilled at the Poipu beach. A couple of us where hungry and decided to try this place out. Service was friendly and we sat at a table next to the window/opening. Ocean view was ok a lot of trees were in the way. We ordered the Kama'aina Pupu Platter. A nice mix of seafood. Everything was delicious. Also got clam chowder. Very tasty and fresh. Good thickness and creamy. Wish we had time to try more of the items. Bar area looked chill as well. 3.5stars!

    (3)

  • Robert S.

    Went here 1st lunch in Kauai. Had the seared ahi and pork nachos. Ahi was good nachos as well. Later that night had the Mac nut crusted mahi mahi and fish and chips, which were both really good. Good Mai tais, great server, too. Will be back.

    (4)

  • Christine D.

    A cute little casual restaurant with an AMAZING view of Poipu beach! Came here with a friend for happy hour where we got a mai tai and a lava lava flow to drink along with an ahi salad and spicy black mussels to eat. It was all so fresh and delicious! Our server was very outgoing and made our experience here very pleasant. Definitely drop by if you are looking to grab a bite to eat they have quite a selection from salad to sandwiches to steak.

    (3)

  • Chris G.

    Went for happy hour (again!). The location and view are top notch, and the chill staff make this a happy hour MUST. This time I did enjoy some coconut shrimp pupu's, which were a great compliment to my drinks. My review is for drinks and happy hour...not restaurant food.

    (5)

  • Pam D.

    We always enjoy our trips to Brennecke's. It's got your classic casual beach vibe with a terrific view from almost every table. And the food is fine. To avoid the sunset-seeking crowds we went for lunch. Arriving close to noon we got in on the first seating of tables & didn't wait at all. Back to the food--my husband's prime rib sandwich on sourdough was tender & delicious & a perfect medium-rare as requested. My tutu portion (granny-sized) beer battered fish & chips with fries & slaw were tasty enough-it's a beach joint! Granted it's not as cheap as a food truck but then it's not a food truck. Just chill & enjoy your luck at being there.

    (4)

  • Jennifer A.

    The food here is good. The only thing keeping me from going back is the prices.

    (3)

  • Brooke H.

    I watched the sun set then went here for after dinner drinks and Joe was one of the best hosts I've come across on Kauai. He made me feel important and welcome. Our waiter, Keith, was super friendly and funny. He even invited me back for live music on Friday. He was very attentive and I never had to ask or wait for anything. By far two of the best servers we've come across on the island. I would go back for more after dinner drinks again and again if those two were there! The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars is because I haven't had the food yet, but everything I saw looked delicious so I wi definitely be back for round two!

    (3)

  • K K.

    Not sure whether I went here to eat dinner or to be dinner. The screens on the windows are so ineffective that I killed not 1, 2, or 3, but 7 bugs during my meal. This number does not include the many bugs squashed by my dining mates, nor the unfortunate multiple bug suicides that occurred during our meal (several deaths by drownings in water glasses and one in my clam chowder soup). Service was rude. Our waiter said, "be back in a minute" and walked away from the table in the middle of one of our party of six's order. Checking in on us involved "Any complaints or meals to send back?" The food was mediocre, and way overpriced. You'll probably go here, because we did too despite the many stinging reviews. But don't say I didn't warn you.

    (1)

  • Don B.

    We loved this place. Very fun atmosphere with great beach views! The nachos are killer! The prices are very reasonable for the Island. My wife loved her arugula salad and I had the fish tacos which were great! Try and catch a sunset here.

    (4)

  • Aaron B.

    Tourist trap! Really bad service! The waiter ignored us and we had to ask him for help.

    (1)

  • Adkinl A.

    What a great find this place was! Really good food (try the fish and chips, fresh Ono with a Chinese restaurant-style breading), super friendly service and elevated views of the beach and sunset, this place is great. Plus it isn't too bad price-wise (especially given the prices on the rest of the Island) so its good food for a good value. The only negative is that it is upstairs so if you have an injury, its tough to make it up and down the stairs but if you can, its well worth it!

    (4)

  • Danny H.

    Came here for a happy hour drink and snack. We got Mai Tais and they were gross. Tasted like they came out of a can premixed. They seemed to have a decent amount of alcohol, but the taste was terrible compared to others I had around Kauai. We got the sliders for a lunch snack. They weren't very good either. Just some very plain tasting meat on a plain white bun. Like cafeteria food. It filled the void (sort of) after being in the sun and just wanting a bite, but so would a bag of chips. The service was great. The location is awesome. But the food and drinks we had were pretty much terrible.

    (2)

  • Karen C.

    My mom and I had lunch here after spending some time at Poipu Beach across the street. The restaurant is upstairs and there is no elevator. I guess they somehow got grandfathered in on the US handicap laws. Not sure how that can be but what can you do. The menu is pretty limited but the options we choose were very good. I had the grilled shrimp salad. The shrimp were good size and grilled nicely. The dressing on the salad was some sort of vinaigrette. It was tasty. My mom had the clam chowder along with the coconut shrimp appetizer. She enjoyed both of them. The restaurant is open to the air which gives the place a nice breeze. Looks like they do drink specials for happy hour and have live music on the weekends. Desserts were good. Definitely a great spot to go for lunch after a day at the beach.

    (4)

  • M F.

    We waited and waited and waited. Had we only known that the food was Inedible and the service was slow, we have chosen McDonald's. They couldn't even get the beer right. Ordered longboard lager draft got some piss poor substitution, only to find that they were out of longboard. Malicious! Waste your money at some other dive!

    (1)

  • Amy D.

    The location is great and the view's good too, but the food is just so-so. We all got burgers and sammies. While they weren't bad they weren't anything to shout about. One of us did get the fish and chips and spoke highly of them - the taste and portion size. Definitely check it out - it's a fun spot. But fine dining? Not so much.

    (2)

  • Alex R.

    My expectations of the restaurant were intentionally not high but they were certainly not met. The drinks were great, the service was fine, but if you are looking for good food, go elsewhere. We ordered the cheeseburger and the fish-n-chips. It was immediately apparent that the cheeseburger was a frozen patty, most likely bought from Costco, it didn't taste like anything. As far as the fish, it was so over fried that I could have used it to play baseball with. The coleslaw that it was served with looked like green paint. Overall it was a poor dining experience, fun atmosphere, just terrible food.

    (1)

  • Craig M.

    Why can't restaurants learn to make a decent Caesar salad?!? It's a simple combination of fresh lemon juice, anchovies, olive oil Parm and crisp Romaine for Pete's sake!!! Okay now that I've got that rant off my chest (which could be applied to most restaurants), let me tell you that is overall a great place for un-complicated but tasty family dining. I drank my first ever Mai-Tai and loved it so much that I ordered a 2nd followed by a Marghurita. The Mahi-Mahi was delicious although the sauce tasted like it was bottled. My son loved the fish and chips so much that I was forced to sample it myself. I can tell that the fish was freshly caught and prepared. The service was friendly and the view was beautiful. I'd highly recommend for families looking for a nice meal in Poipu.

    (4)

  • Vicki C.

    Number one in service, food and cleanliness. Too many great things to say about this place. One of the best meals we ate here on Kaui. We will come back. Oh and the chicken pesto was delicious as well as the opah dish with vegetables and jasmine rice. Yum!!!

    (5)

  • Timothy C.

    Love it. Great view. Good food. Right across from the beach. We had the: - Pupu Platter - Stuffed Mushrooms with Shrimp - Spicy Mussels - And the sashimi dish. The sashimi is killer. Not sure where they get there fish but the Ahi Tuna is really something. I mean this isn't complimenting the chef so much as complimenting the fish purveyor. Oh. And the fish. The fish did a good job growing up to be munched on by us. Thank you Ahi gods. Moving onwards to the Mushrooms: Chef: I love your Stuffed Mushrooms of awesome execution and crunchy shrimpiness. You yummified my life. You had me at the first crunch of shrimpy mushroom goodness. Yes, you completed me.... that short brief awesome bite. The mushrooms far surpassed the Spicy Mussels. I must confess that dish had good intentions but perhaps a slightly flawed execution. Not sure if lemongrass works here; but it needs a kick of something. Garlic?

    (4)

  • Blue J.

    Mai tai wasn't close to being world famous as claimed on the menu. Food was ok, got the fish taco that was grilled with little to no seasoning and fish/chip which can never be done wrong. Nothing special about the food we got. View/service was pretty awesome. Tip: should of just gotten a beer and fish and chips to sit back and enjoy the view.

    (3)

  • Gail K.

    We had an early dinner there last night. It was packed and we had no reservations. But we lucked out on a table. Our excellent server was Laney(?) who was on top of everything. We just ordered burgers and they were Excellent!! We are going there again to try other items on the menu. They have pasta, seafood and steaks. Across the street is a park and the ocean so it has a terrific view.

    (4)

  • Ian M.

    Excellent pork sandwich, iced coffee, coconut shrimp, battered fish, and friendly service.

    (4)

  • Juan G.

    Happy hour is great with good drink and food specials. Went there twice during our stay in Kauai. Fish tacos were also good. Nice view of the beach park as well.

    (4)

  • Josh G.

    The Pineapple Express drink is to be avoided (tastes like cough syrup). But when I told them I didn't care for it, they kindly replaced it with another drink of my choice at no charge. Both our server and the manager were lovely to us. Based on other Yelp reviews, we ordered the macadamia nut encrusted mahi mahi and the Opah with grilled veggies. Both were excellent. The ambiance and view were fantastic. We will definitely go back!

    (5)

  • Julie M.

    So delicious! My husband and I had a really fun late dinner here. The open air made for such a laid back atmosphere. We had Mai Tai's while we waited for our seats, but we called ahead for reservations so we didn't wait long. I ordered ahi sandwich, it was fresh and tasty. My husband enjoyed his fish and chips, very high quality. They also had a talented local musician playing, who was quite enjoyable to listen to and helped set the tone for a laid back scene. If/when we go back to Kauai, we will definitely go back to Brennecke's!

    (4)

  • Randy C.

    Great food. Great view. Great prices great service. Had pu pu platter and fish. Great for kids too.

    (5)

  • Val T.

    So-so food?..pricy. Beautiful view

    (3)

  • .Hon H.

    While we've gotten food to go from the deli on the first floor, this was our first time eating in the restaurant. The restaurant is in a fabulous location - right across from the beach, so you can hear the waves and see the ocean, which always makes things better, right? We had to wait a few minutes for our table, and enjoyed a cocktail at the bar. Since it was my first night, I had to have a mai tai,and Brenneckes does it up right. My hon of hons husband got his usual martini, and enjoyed it. Once we were seated we were taken care of by a very ambitious and animated waiter, who tried his best to up-sell us on every single part of the menu. No matter, we held our ground and he was cool about it. My said was a little watery since the lettuce leaves hadn't been dried thoroughly, and my HOHH's had the same problem. They were OK, but could've been better if the greens were handled properly. We both had Opah with tropical fruit salsa, veggies and white rice. WTH is with the scoop of white rice? Honestly, you can't come up if with something better? That was sort of annoying, and we found the scoop of white rice repeated on another couple of dinner plates, despite the fact that we weren't eating plate lunch, when you expect white rice! All in all, a pleasant evening and a decent price tab, even with the cocktails and bottle of wine. A good place for a casual dinner, and very kid friendly.

    (3)

  • Melissa N.

    Pretty much 180 degree views of the beach and park across the street, service while not outstanding better than most places in Poipu. I would recommend the spicy mussels and house Caesar salad. We were offed when staff rushed us to finish our drinks so that another party could have our table- people were tired of standing at the bar. They probably could have gotten 3 or 4 stars if it weren't for this. Pretty Rude

    (2)

  • Brian P.

    Excellent meal. Had the opah and Ono. Fantastic. Catered to our dairy restrictions as well. Highly recommend

    (5)

  • Lucy Y.

    Parking: easy, in their free lot. Watch out for the chickens! Reservations: a very good idea for dinner time, as it starts getting busy about 6-ish. Reservations get priority for a window seat. View: of the beach and ocean across the street, and sunset. Nice! Food: burgers, salads, pupu platters, fish specials, pretty good desserts. We shared the Coconut Shrimp appetizer. The shrimp were a little small, but hot and crispy and coconutty and flavorful with the sweet-spicy dipping sauce and pickled ginger. I had the grilled fish (Mahi) and garlic shrimp skewer combo, with all veggies (carrots, peppers, asparagus, squash, onions). It was tasty, but bf's dinner was more impressive to my tastebuds. Bf had the special - a macadamia crusted Mahi with sweet chili butter, served with rice and the same veggie mix I had. Yum! We shared the Apple Tart topped with Lappert's vanilla ice cream and caramel. Yummy, hot flaky pastry with tender apples - but sweet! The presence of an apple stem and a couple of seeds assured us that there was indeed a fresh apple sliced in there! I don't drink, but I tasted bf's Bloody Mary, and it was spicy and tasty. Service was pretty good - but the view out of the open windows really made this casual place memorable!

    (4)

  • J V.

    The staff is what makes this place special.... the restaurant is in a beautiful location, they sat us at a table overlooking to ocean. Prices are reasonable, especially for a restaurant with a view. Here in California a view like that would easily cost you $100 for 2 people to eat (and up!). Hoku the bartender and the girls that work here are genuine, down to Earth people who took amazing care of us during the time we stayed in Poipu. It's been 2 years since we visited the island, and I still remember the wonderful people who worked here and invited us to hang out with them after work. Thank you for an incredible time on the island!!

    (5)

  • Rich P.

    I had a pot of muscles and a beer across from the beach in Poi Pu. You'll get a meal, but it's somewhat typical of what you'll find at the tourist spot. Nice selection of beers, really good muscles, menu had a nice selection of fresh local fish, but it's on the expensive side, and really not the most memorable part of my day in PP.

    (3)

  • Dolly D.

    Had a great time. Walked over from the beach. Enjoyed the food and company.

    (3)

  • Brian K.

    Nothing special, and frankly over priced even for the location. Staff was friendly, food was average, I would not go back, unless I was with a group that wanted to. Happy hour prices and offerings are not very happy - I think it is important to point out that they ran out of pork for their nachos -snappy hour special 20 mins. Into happy hour.

    (3)

  • Alyssa E.

    Good location, nice casual setting looking onto the beach with open windows. We went after a day at the beach and mostly ordered from the happy hour menu. Wasn't the best happy hour menu in terms of discounts or selection, but we got the coconut shrimp and sliders. The coconut shrimp was fantastic, so much so that we ordered a second serving. The sauce was amazing. The sliders were decent, but my husband was annoyed at the price. We also got the Island Fish Sandwich, which was decent, but again, pricey. The menu claims they have a great Mai Tai, but it really tasted like a non-alcoholic fruit mix. Definitely one of the least impressive Mai Tais I've had in Hawaii. But the on tap beer was great and a reasonable price at happy hour. Would come back, mostly for the good location after a day boogie boarding and for the coconut shrimp.

    (3)

  • Sabrina O.

    The only reason this review is getting one star is because the waitress was friendly. Other than that, the food was terrible. Mediocre grilled vegetables sitting in a terrible miso sauce. Way overpriced for what I got. Maybe I ordered the wrong thing? Maybe I should've had more alcohol? Either way, unlikely I will return unless it's to get drunk so my taste buds don't notice how bad the food is.

    (1)

  • Michael F.

    "The Good, the Bad, and the Ahi" Brennecke's is across from the beach. The beach in Hawai'i. The island of Kaua'i to be precise. South shore of the aforementioned isle to be even more precise. It's not much to look at from the outside, and it's not much to look at on the inside. But there is much to look at from the inside when you look out at the outside; most notably, the Pacific. Anyway, I walked in the front door after parking my rented Altima in a rather sparsely populated lot, save for two young island girls chatting near a Dumpster for God only knows why. Most likely talking about hair or make-up or Kotex or how good looking that guy with the Altima is. Inside was a Jeff Spicolli-like dude propped up at a register, mumbling with a close twin about something I'm sure I wouldn't care about. It looked like a little store of some kind which, again, I'm sure I wouldn't have cared about had I bothered to look at its offerings. A sign pointed upstairs to the restaurant so I traipsed up the sticky steps, avoiding the handrail like the born again germaphobe I am. Once the staircase had expired I found myself in Brennecke's. The bar was to the left, table seating to the right, ocean views from all windows. I picked a chair at the bar, ordered a Longboard and asked for a menu. As I was looking through the fare, a waitress sidled up beside me. She traced a finger along the delineated musculature of my good forearm, whispering in my bad ear what the specials were. I looked at her with my good eye, shifting my bad leg so it brushed against hers. She melted at my touch, naturally, and began to stammer in that bad ear I told you about it. So since it was my bad ear, and she was stuttering with pent-up desire, to this day I have no idea what the specials were. She stumbled away on weak knees and I went back to my menu. Ah, yes. I see what I want to start with. Seared ahi. Center-cut yellowfin. Medium rare. Complete with seaweed, sesame seeds, wasabi and ponzu sauce. My entree choice was pretty easy too: broiled ono with a fruit-like adornment. I gave my order to the barman while I sucked another Longboard, turning in my stool to stare at the water, wishing I was out there in a sailboat, far from the stickiness and the germs and the people who make it that way. I heard a plate hit the bar and looked over my bad shoulder. The ahi had arrived. I pivoted back around, shifting my weight to my good buttock as I did so. Beautiful color that ahi was. Wondrous flavor, too. I could write poems about it if I was so inclined but I'm not. The guy next to me was a regular from what I'd overheard him saying to the bartender and he remarked to me that the seared ahi was the best thing on the menu. I don't if that's true or not but I'll tell you this: it was just plain awesome. I should have ordered three of them and skipped the ono which, I must admit, was fine but not as good as the ahi. The fruit sauce was good but the rice wasn't so tasty. The ono had decent flavor, though, yet just wasn't in the same league as the ahi. I had a glass of Pinot Grigio with my entree which complemented it nicely, however. I don't remember what the bill was but it was somewhere around 55 bucks or so, sans the tip. I paid with the trusty Amex card and departed down the sticky steps, the handrail silently screaming for me to touch it. But I wouldn't. No way. Not even if I was to lose my footing and fall down the steps with my neck snapping like a dry twig, the result of which would be a sexy corpse with its head at a horrible angle, the empty eyes staring upwards into The Void.... Back in the Altima I looked towards the Dumpster but the island girls were gone, no doubt my handsomeness too much to bear a second time. I drove away beneath a cloud-darkened sky, wondering if Brennecke's would still have the ahi the next time I returned. My guess would be yes, only next time they'd need a whole lot more.

    (4)

  • Amy O.

    Something's are better left alone. It just wasn't the same. Food decent. Drinks weak. Server friendly but forgetful. After 8 days at the St. Regis the prices were a relief. Overall B-

    (3)

  • Sandra O.

    Came here for our "farewell" dinner as we were leaving the next morning. It had good reviews so we gave it a shot. The view was great and the staff was friendly. The pasta and fish and chips were very good. I ordered the macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi based on the server's recommendation, which turned out to be ok at best. I didn't even finish it. We also ordered drinks that were just ok. I think if you show up for the view and not the food, you'll leave pretty darn happy.

    (3)

  • Serenity G.

    My kids and I love the calm chowder and fish and chips. Hits the spot after spending the day at the beach. Friendly folks.

    (5)

  • Amanda B.

    Location is great right across the street from Poipu State Beach Park. I was expecting a lot for the price. Burger no sauce. Ahi burger was just alright. Fish and chips was ok. Not what I expected. For the quality of food it should of been half the price. I heard I should of had a Mai tai. We had the blended strawberry daiquiris. They were fine. I would prefer a bunch of other places In kauai and a few in poipu over this place.

    (2)

  • M P.

    One of The best hamburgers with a large piece of meat, Perfectly cooked. A fresh bun with the best fries and the Oceanview was fantastic. A great place to eat.

    (5)

  • L C.

    The view is wonderful. The restaurant itself was decorated with all kinds of beach and sports memorabilia! The food is average but over priced. We live in Hawaii and we are use to the high cost of living in the islands but it hurts when the food is average. The pulled pork BBQ sandwich wasn't good at all....no flavor and very bland. The burgers were average at best. Great location but that's about it.

    (2)

  • Tom S.

    It's a beach bar. The food is not fine dining quality but still good. Great bartenders Nd servers. The manager makes everyone feel special.

    (5)

  • T A.

    This place was expensive and not very good. Very disappointed. Maybe people like it for the view...it might have been nice but we were not seated by the window.

    (1)

  • Nathan L.

    My wife already posted her review, but I just had to reiterate... This place is terrible. Walking to the car I seriously debated sticking my finger down my throat to get everything I just ingested, out, as quickly as possible. We had the coconut shrimp appetizer, and then split the romaine salad and the prime rib dinner, and the kids had the chicken fingers and the kids burger. My coke tasted really off, like the syrup mixture was off, or, and probably more likely, the machine hadn't been cleaned in a decade or two. The shrimp tasted very much 'fresh-from-frozen', with that mushy layer in between the shrimp and the crust. Not a great start. The salad was just okay. But the prime rib was atrocious. I ordered it medium, and one side looked properly cooked, but the other side was practically seared. And the flavor was so bad... In the immortal words of Ross Geller, it tasted like feet. I couldn't even choke down my entire half, even though I was starving after a long day in the sun. Then I washed the disgusting taste in my mouth out with the rest of my funky coke, only to discover a beetle-type bug at the bottom, buried under the ice, and it was still kicking. When we asked the waitress for the check, we pointed out my new friend in the glass, and she was very apologetic, and said she'll take the coke off the bill. Gee thanks. Then she offered a free dessert too, but there was no way any of us were taking another bite of food from this dump. Anyway, I say eat at this place at your own risk. If you have a cocktail or three before you eat your meal, you might not even notice how disgusting it is. Im sure that's the only reason it has more than two stars... Btw, to Bob, I just saw your response to Alicia from about 5 months ago, that your policy is to check id's on ALL credit card purchases. Well my card says PLEASE SEE ID on the back, and nobody asked to see my id... Maybe she does have a valid point there. I also couldn't help but notice how few Hawaiians were working there. AND I overheard one employee say to a customer something like, this place is a family business, and some members of the family get away with things that I probably wouldn't be able to get away with. The employee was not white, but I have a pretty strong feeling Bob and his 'family' are. What a disgrace. No wonder so many Hawaiians hate haoles.

    (1)

  • Thomas P.

    5 star view. 4 plus stars on service. Our waitress was very nice and helpful. I had a bacon cheese burger... It was good, but not great. My kids had chicken strips, lacking in flavor but alright. My wife and sister in law shared a shrimp salad that ended up costing $30 so they could each have 4 or five grilled shrimp for lunch. IMO, you're paying for the location and view which are both tremendous. The food you get for the price you pay leaves a lot to be desired. I probably wouldn't go back.

    (2)

  • Drew C.

    This place was great and exactly what we were looking for: cheerful vibe, great views, super friendly & helpful staff, fantastic drinks & solid, casual food. The pupu platter didn't last long (the kids monopolized the smoked marlin), Nana loved her fish and chips, the kids loved their kid menu choices & my wife and I split a burger. Sure, prices reflect the fact that yes, you are in Hawaii (that's a good thing, right?), and nobody pitched this as a 4 star French restaurant: chill out, consider having another margarita & appreciate that you're here & life is good. Brennecke's, thanks for going the extra mile to create a great night for the whole family.

    (4)

  • Nadine F.

    We went to Brennecke's for drinks one day, and it was an overall unpleasant experience. The atmosphere reminded me of a Margaritaville or a tropical and more touristy version of Chili's. The location was fantastic, but nothing else was enjoyable. Our server wasn't particularly attentive and seemed annoyed that we were starting with just drinks and not food. We probably would have gotten food if she were nicer, but we kind of just wanted to get out of there as fast as possible. Drinks are pricey, which is to be expected in this area, and their happy hour just gives you $1 off most drinks.

    (2)

  • Wendy C.

    This is my FAVORITE place to eat, I actually LOVED the catch of the day!!! Being able to look at the beach while we eat is always amazing! I ALWAYS tell people to go here!!!

    (5)

  • Ethan G.

    This is my dad's favorite restaurant on Kauai. All of the food was superb, and I had a great time. We started with the Pupu Platter, which had a variety of fish and pork. I had the French Dip; was delicious, and had a nice array of fresh veggies on it to top it off. Why am I only giving this place 3 stars then? My dad was given a Longboard Lager, which was clearly flat. The aroma begged that it had a skunk attribute, and was sour to taste. We sent it back, and told them to check the kegs. After that, he just asked for their wheat draft beer. This beer clearly had the same problem; flat and skunky. I told him not to drink it. So, minus one star each for each beer sent back. Clearly they're not a brewery, but there's a certain expectation to beer pouring at any restaurant. These beers had no head, so their CO2 was off. They shouldn't have been serving beer at all. And I would check their refrigeration too. Maybe the room has light shining in? Regardless, great place for lunch. Has a good view of the Beach Park. Just stay away from the beer. Or at least ask if they've fixed the problem if you're going to order draft.

    (3)

  • Sam P.

    We happened to stop at this place for lunch by accident. We were so happy that we did! The fish and chips were excellent. If you order anything, you must get these. The atmosphere was perfect, with a view of the beach, friendly service, and a fun beach vibe. Prices were reasonable and I would totally recommend this place for lunch!

    (5)

  • B. D.

    Great happy hour.. Pork anchors with real cheese, pitcher of margaritas, and great service.. Right across from the beach..What's not to like..

    (4)

  • Tom R.

    The food was great - the two seafood entrees we ordered were well prepared and flavorful. Drinks were good. The highlight was the live music which was absolutely beautiful and made this a perfect evening.

    (4)

  • Lee H.

    Go for drinks and dessert. Food is pretty standard fare and overpriced for what you get, but the drink and dessert menu stands out and is worth the price. Our first server, Falcon, is the man! Please ask to see a picture of his awesome mustache!

    (4)

  • Mary P.

    I would say food here is Ok, bar food is standard and quite expensive. The veggie Burger is delicious though, and they have really good crispy fries. The rest of the food is again only ok and quite expensive, with the atmosphere of a Denny's. Definitely lots of much better dinner dining in the area in the same price range.

    (3)

  • Gordon C.

    Quite pricey for just some coconut shrimp and fish & chips, but great location! We grabbed ours to go after having a few drinks at the bar and had a picnic at the beach across the street. Come right before sunset because the views are lovely!

    (4)

  • Brenda P.

    The clam chowder is tasty but the fish fry with Ono is outstanding! Shelly was our server and very speedy and super friendly!! I will return for the coconut shrimp.... Yummmmm.

    (5)

  • Karen W.

    Enjoyed the fish and chips and the broiler salad. The fish in the fish and chips were real pieces of local caught fish (not he fish flake items you see elsewhere). Fabulously good. The salad was also excellent with a healthy serving and lots of real blue cheese on top. Right close to the beach and excellent for sunset dining. The service was top notch.

    (4)

  • Garst P.

    I first visited Brennecke's over fifteen years ago and fondly remember my meals and drinks. I had the good fortune to visit Brennecke's again during the week of July 7th. The restaurant faces the beach and the breezy, casual atmosphere is outstanding and inviting. I visited the restaurant twice during the week and first had the Cajun Mahi Mahi and on the second visit had the Ono with seasoned vegetables. The Mahi was delicious and properly cooked and seasoned, but served with wholly forgettable rice and veggies. The Ono was well cooked and flavorful, but the veggies were basically raw and I quit on them half way through. I remember Brennecke's more fondly than I found it. The atmosphere is outstanding, but the food was just so-so and upwards for $30.00 per plate. Brennecke's is worth a visit if for no other reason than the atmosphere and a few good drinks, but do not go there just for the food. I wish Brenneck's was as good as I remembered it.

    (2)

  • H T.

    My husband and I were married on Kauai 06.01.15 - this was the WORST meal of our 10 night stay. We only came here because we received a gift card from my Mother In Law. We were told it was a 20-25min wait (Monday night). After nearly an hour, we realized someone forgot about us. When I approached the hostess, she told me someone had taken our seat - how does that happen with a pager? Another 10 minutes passed before we were seated at a tiny seat in the bar, with $100 to blow on a dinner we didn't even want to partake in anymore. Drinks - slow service, yet tasty. Husband ordered the Fish and Chips - pretty good, cold fries and bad tartar sauce (coming from Seattleites, we know good Tartar). I had the Rib Eye- overcooked, definitely not smothered in mushrooms and served with overcooked vegetables and cold mashed potatoes. The hostess actually had to purchase our desert as her way of making the situation better. REALLY, The restaurant couldn't spare a slice of ice cream cake? To top things off, the server refused to use the rest of our gift card toward a tip...so we came back for a slightly more appealing lunch a few days later. Stay away!

    (1)

  • Evelyn E.

    My husband and I came here for dinner on our honeymoon. We had heard great things and we were expecting amazing. The view is definitely what you are paying for here. The food was okay, but it is pricey. It's not a place we'd come back to, but the view is great!

    (2)

  • Victoria K.

    Fantastic tropical cocktails at a beachside location- what more could you want? We loved the Piña Colada, Lava Flow, and all other flavors of Coladas. Best on the island!

    (5)

  • Richard C.

    I was in Kauai on vacation with my family and found this little gem. I was a little hesitant at first because of the outside of the building, but these are often the best spots! The first meal we had here and turned out to be one of the best we had our entire vacation. Great food, good service, and an amazing view! Highly recommended!

    (5)

  • Kathleen H.

    This was close to our resort and looked good. Definitely worth the walk! Host was extremely friendly and his customer service was beyond expectations. The ahi sashimi appetizer was delicious and fresh! Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Jennifer V.

    I ordered the local greens 1/2 salad and ahi sashimi. The salad dressing was very bland. I never add salt to my food at restaurants, but I had to add salt and pepper to the salad. The ahi was sliced very this and came with a hot mustard/soy sauce. The sauce was very spicy and delicious. I don't think you can really mess up ahi in Hawaii.

    (3)

  • Kevin M.

    Casual dining, less expensive than most in Poipu, great service at 7:30 on a busy night. My sweetie had steamed veggies, she loved them. I had opah, very simple with rice and veggies $26, cooked just right. We'll be back!

    (4)

  • Philip C.

    We went here without reservations so we had a 30-minute wait for a table. A cocktail waitress came by and offered some great suggestions. When we were seated, one of us had the shrimp skewers, another had the ono with shrimp and wasabi butter and I had a beach burger with swiss cheese. Our order came quickly and the food was delicious and our friendly server kept our glasses filled. This place is just as good as when I first came years ago and I would go again without hesitation. I would just make reservations next time.

    (4)

  • Katie W.

    Good lunch before hitting the beach. Very friendly and attentive service, food was fresh and tasty! Good vegetarian options. We'll be back on our next visit!

    (4)

  • Valerie S.

    You get what you sign up for at Brennecke's, where the real estate is the main selling point. Yes, you can eat your meal while looking out over the beach at the water, but you're getting a very TGIFridays-meets-Hawaii experience, and nothing about it says authentic. Like the photo, I had the coconut shrimp. It was good, though over-priced, and not at all healthy. If I'd had a beach body for my trip, I could see it would be easy to lose by eating here.

    (2)

  • Stephie G.

    Great friendly staff, good food and amazing view of the beach. Our only issues, and we went twice, included slow service & weak cocktails.

    (3)

  • JB R.

    Ok for the price. A salad will set you back $20 for lunch, although it does have a fresh piece of fresh fish. I ordered the salad with grilled fish and grilled eggplant with goat cheese. The balsamic dressing and the smoke flavor on the eggplant were overpowering. The clam chowder was good, the kid chicken strip and fry plate was ok. The fish tacos were a hit, even the rice and beans were tasty. Right on the beach, nice server.

    (3)

  • Jennifer H.

    Worst service. Ever. I'm serious. Don't spend your money here. I wish I could give 0 stars. Came with my family on a Wednesday afternoon before the dinner rush. Was told there would be a 20 minute wait. Sure, no problem. 5 minutes later they say a table opens up and they stick us in the corner where there isn't a window. Seeing 2 tables open up, we kindly ask to move tables. The waitress immediately gets sour and disappears. When she returns (presumably after speaking with her manager) she says that we can have (a currently occupied table) when the family leaves but it will be 20 minutes because the tables that are open are in another waitress' section. When we simply ask if we can have 1 of the few open tables next to us, she THROWS HER HANDS IN THE AIR and storms off. After we decide to leave (I mean, did that just really happen?), the manager then says (without apologizing for his staff's blatantly rude display) that this is what happens when you don't make reservations. WHAT?? THERE WERE OPEN TABLES. YOU TURNED DOWN A $100+ CHECK BECAUSE YOU DIDNT WANT TO SKIP SERVER ROTATION. Wow! I was a waitress for 4 years when I was younger. People WILL ask to move out of the bad table. Server rotation WILL get rearranged. But lesson #1 in customer service folks, the customer is always right. Skip the headache. Choose a different establishment.

    (1)

  • John H.

    Great food and a fun dining right on the beach. Had the ribs, veggie pasta and ribeye for the group and all were very happy!

    (5)

  • Michael B.

    Showed up without my a reservation and were directed to the bar for a slight wait as the place was packed in a Wednesday night. After enjoying a few fine drinks from the friendly bar staff - try the coconut run mojito - we were promptly seated and ordered straightaway. The macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi was really good but the fresh ono fish and chips were outstanding!! Worth the typical Hawaiian price.

    (4)

  • Tanner B.

    Came here for the late happy hour because of a friend's recommendation. It would have been fine for just drinks, but the food was terrible. The "happy hour" appetizers are only $1 off the already overpriced regular menu. So for $9 you get 5 little coconut shrimp. The $10 nachos were probably the worst nachos I've ever eaten. The cheese was hard which made all the chips just one nasty chewy mess. I make better nachos at home in my microwave. The service was good and the drinks were cold, just avoid the appetizers.

    (2)

  • George S.

    The food was ok as well as the service. Nice menu with seafood and steak. Got a Kamaaina discount, so I geef'um da 4 starz 'cause they called us Aunty & Uncle.

    (4)

  • Maureen B.

    This place hits all the right notes for a beach lunch. We dropped in during the day, and were happy to get seating for our party of 7. They have the sports bar vibe and menu to match. Burgers, fries, shakes, coconut shrimp & nachos. We liked all of the above. Nothing spectacular, but it hit the spot. The service was friendly, and the view is great if you can get a spot by the open air.

    (3)

  • Andrea H.

    Location was nice and food was fast but that is all the good I have to say. The food was dry, overcooked, and flavorless. I had the fish and chips which almost made me gag. Our party also had the pork tacos and which were terrible. The coconut shrimp were okay but mainly for the mango sauce. We came during happy hour and got a pitcher of daiquris. There was minimal alcohol in the pitcher which was a disappointment for $20. Don't go here unless you have no tastebuds don't want alcohol.

    (1)

  • David R.

    very good food excellent view. We had everything from steak, mussels, fish & chips and fish of the day (can't remember name. Great service and quick, we had a table with ocean view and it was a fun festive atmosphere. The only thing i can say that needs improvement is they need larger restrooms.

    (4)

  • Art C.

    We were part of a huge 20+ party and they still pulled it off flawlessly. Great fish, worth finding this place. We will return (yes, the whole group) next year

    (5)

  • Darril S.

    This was our first stop once we got on the island. The four of us ordered lunch and three drinks and one beer, the three drinks had 1800 tequila supposedly.... we had to order an extra shot just to make it drinkable. I would chip in to send the bartender back to bartending school. would not suggest this place for drinks anymore. The food was also just okay, The bill was $140 also

    (1)

  • Grayson S.

    It was pretty good. Nothing super amazing in my opinion but it was definitely worth the price and the service was very good. Pound for pound I would say this place is definately worth t

    (5)

  • Brittany C.

    Happy Hour from 3-5pm is a must! Nachos with BBQ Kalua Pork are amazing! Service is great.

    (5)

  • Christy P.

    Outdoor low key atmosphere which combined beach and sports bar. We didn't reservations, but if you'd like to sit by the window closest to the ocean I suggest you call ahead. Entrees were between 20 and $30, and the food was delicious.

    (4)

  • Ariel C.

    Our experience at Brennecke's Beach Broiler was disappointing. We ordered the ahi fish tacos and coconut shrimp off the lunch menu, both were overpriced, small portions and poor quality. We experienced friendly service by the gentleman that seated us but the service ended there. I gave this place a second star for the view but I won't be returning.

    (2)

  • Steven B.

    Came here for the happy hour. The prices weren't that great, and not much to pick from. Great views of the Poipu Beach though.

    (3)

  • Alison M.

    The drinks are cold, the views are great, and sadly the food was average. I had some ok nachos I could have made at home.

    (3)

  • Amber A.

    This was the worst meal my husband and I had on the trip. Terribly rude staff and the food was below mediocre. Not worth the money at all

    (1)

  • Joshua R.

    Good spot to grab lunch or a drink near Poipu. Its a little bit off the road, so you might miss it if you are driving, but its easily walkable from the waiohai marriott.

    (3)

  • Barbara M.

    We spent Thanksgiving at Brennecke's. So great. Everyone who works here seems happy and transmits that attitude. My Opah was fabulous. My husband order the Shrimp-Stuffed Mahi Mahi and it was also divine. Two nights later, we went back and ordered Ahi sandwiches to go. They were also delicious. Unlike many places in Hawaii that see a tourist coming, if you will, Brennecke's offers a spirit of generosity (with their good food and pleasant service) that I applaud whole-heartedly.

    (5)

  • Eric N.

    Visited in Feb of 2013: Meh. This place has "ok" food at inflated prices because of their beach location. I will say this, our service was excellent. Maybe for lunch, but not for dinner. I had the ahi sandwich with fries, which was pretty good, but the salad I got with blue cheese to start was like an additional $9. The salad was good, but it had no meat on it, and at $9, that is just way too high for a small salad, even in Hawaii. I also ordered a Mai Tai which added to my bill, and I was not impressed with it one bit. ------ If you want a real Mai Tai, and real beach dining experience, drive 45 minutes to Kapaa to a place called Oasis. Less crowded than Duke's and less touristy. They have great Ukulele music every Weds. Best and most authentic Mai Tai's I've ever tasted. I will do a separate review of them soon. Had to add that in just in case you were looking for beach front dining.

    (2)

  • Brett B.

    I was a little apprehensive after reading some of the reviews, especially since it looked like a tourist trap, but I was pleasantly surprised with my dining experience. Their Kahlua pork nachos rock, and the Mai Tai was great, but the lava flow sent my blood sugar skyrocketing, overly sweet!!! My fish and chips were delicious. Fries were thin and crispy, loved them. Keep your expectations low, and you might just have a great experience

    (4)

  • Elisa H.

    Had no idea what to expect as we read mixed reviews on yelp, were we ever surprised! Tonight was our anniversary dinner and Brennecke's made it special. Our server Dennis went out of his way and seated us at an ocean view table. We enjoyed a delicious appetizer of tasty cerviche, followed by an organic mixed green salad, which was kindly split on two plates. My hubby the dined on a grilled Ono steak served with a delicious wasabi sauce, jasmine white rice prepared with lime and coconut and assorted veggies which were cooked to perfection, tender crisp. I enjoyed a charbrolied Opah steak, jasmine rice, mushrooms, asparagus and yellow peppers. After we finished dinner, Dennis offered us a complimentary dessert from the manager. We selected the molten lava cake with raspberry sauce, which was the best we ever had. Our bill for the evening was half of what it would have been at several of the high end restaurants in the area while the quality and service was equal too, if not better. Would I return? You betcha!

    (5)

  • Emily J.

    I have been to Brennecke's many a time but I have to say, it was not as good as I had remembered it being. The service was excellent, which was the best thing about our experience here. The food was bland and nothing special, but it was very edible. I got the fish tacos, which were good but not that flavorful. The view of Poipu Beach from the restaurant is incredible, make sure and request a window table when you go. We were able to see both the sun set and the moon rise during our meal, it was pretty cool! The people here are extremely friendly and will really go out of their way to make your dining experience as great as possibly.

    (3)

  • Priscilla O.

    I'm only giving 5 stars for their boozey drankkkssss. This place was walking distance from where my family and I were staying for the week. Whenever we wanted to chill and get drinks we walked here. It's right on the beach and had an open patio so that we could see the sun set. (: When I drink alcohol, i'm either taking shots or drinking the sweetest fruitest girly drinks. The guava daiquiri catered to my taste perfectly...I think it was one of the best daiquiris I have ever had. Super fruity and fresh. Delicious!! I came here with my siblings to lounge on a sunny day, and finished 2 pitchers of this stuff. it was awesome. We had some food during their happy hour, it was average. nothing impressed me at all. the servers are all super nice though. They recognized us by the end of our stay. :P

    (4)

  • Jessica L.

    Drinks were delish! Don't order a chicken wrap there when there's plenty of amazing shrimp and fish there. I regret my lunch special order just because everything else looked SO good. Casual place right by the beach. Pretty busy with a shop downstairs. Loved it here.

    (4)

  • Aaryn P.

    We came in to Brennecke's for a late lunch on a sunny afternoon. The parking lot was pretty full, as it is shared parking for the beach across the street. We liked their open air restaurant feel, and did have a clear view of the beach which was nice. The smoothies that my Mom and I had were actually really good. My husband had a Mai Tai and said it was good as well. My Mom and my husband both had the fish and chips, stating that they were really good. I had the pulled pork sandwich and thought it was just alright. The fries were great though - I don't think I had had fries in a while, so they tasted really good. The service was ok... the wait staff congregated and socialized a lot in some of the main areas, and towards the end of our meal, our waitress was a bit slow, but she was pretty nice. Our lunch was over $70 for three people. While I'm not surprised, I think for the quality of the food it was kind of over priced. I'm offering three stars for a pretty decent meal...could have been better.

    (3)

  • Jamie W.

    Over the years, my opinion of this place keeps going down and down. But, with its location, I keep coming back. It does have nice views. I'm just so frustrated with the service and the menu. First, if you want a drink, you better get it yourself at the bar before sitting down, otherwise, you'll probably wait 30 minutes. Forget about another. Second, the menu is just so bland. Where's the fresh fish? This is a higher end beach joint and there's no fresh fish on the menu. I have been successful in asking for fish and rice, but they always hassle me. There only so many burgers and fish-n-chips one person can eat around here. It could be so good here, but they've just invested no time to make it so.

    (1)

  • Christine M.

    My husband and I went to grab drinks and appetizers at Brennecke's last night, and while the drinks, service and ambiance were good....the ceviche made us both sick. Maybe it was bad fish?

    (1)

  • Deborah K.

    We waited 10 min once seated then flagged down the manager who was great. We had ribs and shrimp skewers. Both were very good!manager treated us to Lava Cake for dessert! It's a bit pricey but good good.

    (4)

  • Doug M.

    Great location with beach and ocean view. Food was delicious. However, they were not accommodating to my low-carb dietary needs. I ordered a kaluha pork sandwich with no bun and no side of fries. I asked for some vegetables or side green salad. They charged me $2.50 to substitute a side green salad. I doubt the lettuce and dressing costs more than the bun and fries!

    (2)

  • Jeremy W.

    Awesome location if you're in Poipu!!! The drinks were decent, the food was solid! The service was good. If you're close by and want some grub or drinks there is literally no reason to NOT go here!!!!! Awesome view of Poipu beach!

    (4)

  • Erin C.

    Brennecke's "is what it is". I would not go here expecting a gourmet meal and in fact their bar food (at least the nachos) wasn't great BUT they have a lovely open-air atmosphere, beautiful view, and good, friendly servers. Drinks (Mai Tai w/ Koloa Rum and the Mango Mama) were great. Was a great spot to frequent for drinks, relaxing and enjoying the view. A very enjoyable, casual, friendly spot. We also enjoyed live music on a Saturday night- fun and not too loud.

    (4)

  • Alana K.

    Headed to Brennecke's after hearing about their "World Famous Mai Tai's." Maybe we should not have expected much from happy hour drinks, but the Mai Tai's and the margaritas were veeeery mediocre. But cheap enough to drink several, so there was that. You really only save a buck during happy hour, though. Food-wise, we just ordered the nachos to share as a late afternoon snack. They were pretty good. Salsa is decent. Cheese to chip ratio is good. We were happy. Can't speak for the rest of the menu, but the upstairs restaurant location is very nice with a view overlooking Brennecke's Beach. It was a great spot to wait out the rain shower.

    (3)

  • Glenda B.

    I will give them 2 stars--food was good, but service was less than acceptable. We had to send our fish back TWICE because it was not cooked. TWICE.....and no adjustment to our bill. Inexcusable!!!!

    (2)

  • Alpha H.

    Some of the best service and food I have ever had!!! Friendly, fast, and fun!!! The best Mai Thais!!!!

    (5)

  • marc o.

    Location is nice. Service was great. The food was decent. Got the pulled pork sandwich and it was tasty and tender. Clam chowder was pretty good. Only gripe was it was a bit expensive.

    (4)

  • Kerry L.

    Eh. It was a fine place but I probably wouldn't return. Had spent our honeymoon on the north shore and decided to grab dinner on the south shore before our flight. Didn't feel like spending a fortune or being fancy in travel clothes so we opted for this place, due to a write up in Fodors. It was fine, no complaints about the food. Coconut shrimp app was good, Mac nut mahi mahi good, prawn entree good. I had a Kona beer sampler, husband ordered a bud light and they brought coors light. Had ice cream pie which was yummy! Came to $95 before tip, so cheaper than what we were used to for kauai but still not cheap. We sat at 6:15 in mid-September and the sun was setting, but you couldn't actually see the sunset, just saw it getting darker. I guess I was spoiled by amazing sunsets on the north! Rest of ambiance was very casual. Server was nice but not the most knowledgable.

    (3)

  • Greg J.

    Located right across the street from Poipu Beach. The dining room is upstairs with in an open air room so you get a good view of beach and ocean. My wife thought fish and chips were very good. I had pulled pork sandwich and thought it was good as well. Note they have a deli that serves deli sandwiches and shave ice on the first floor.

    (4)

  • Bonnie D.

    Exceptionally friendly service. I'd highly recommend making a reservation, looks like a long wait every night. We have a one and thee year old, service was fast and friendly with the kids. Food wasn't exceptional but the with the view and service more than made up for it.

    (4)

  • Mark C.

    Doesn't look like a great restaurant from the outside - more like a two story biker bar - but so glad we followed a recommendation and went. Great open air restaurant right on Poipu State Park beach. Excellent food. Good service. MUST make a reservation. Everything we had was good. The macadamia nut crusted fish and coconut shrimp were favorites.

    (5)

  • Jason A.

    Fun beach place! Super laid back, and great place for a drink. Coconut shrimp are a must , everything else is pretty middle of the road. Staff was really nice and very attentive

    (3)

  • Lauren C.

    I DO NOT recommend this restaurant under any circumstances. Except to walk up, look at the view and leave. Unfortunately. I have previous memories of this being a great, busy, fun and exciting place. Really decent fish. Locals and visitors alike LOVED this place. Well, times change. It is nothing like it's former self. Very sad. Menu MISERABLE. Food WORSE. Prices RIDICULOUS. It's almost as if they are TRYING TO BE BAD. Save yourself $100 and AVOID. You're welcome.

    (1)

  • Lauren V.

    Food not great, but the live music and bar made it the liveliest place in Kauai. It's fun but eat elsewhere

    (4)

  • tom t.

    On vaca. Went snorkeling at Poipu Beach. Saw Brennecke's. Cam for Super Bowl as hotel prices are crazy. Glad I did. Great people. Owner and son in law fantastic. Highly recommend for a casual good time.

    (4)

  • Mary B.

    Location was awesome, seated quickly with reservations, views outstanding. Food was less than mediocre and 7 out of 7 of us left hungry. I had the Fish n chips at $22 expecting some awesome fish and chips...Hey, the only other place I've spent $20+ for fish n chips was at Grotto #9 at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco and they were worth every penny. What I got here at Brennecke's was 3 very small pieces of fish....probably 1 oz of fish total and the rest batter and the only flavor I tasted was from the malt vinegar I sprinkled on it. Oh, don't let me forget ....underneath those 3 bites of dough was a plate of soggy, limp and lukewarm french fries. Service was very good. Our waitress was pleasant, attentive to our needs, and very helpful with menu items. She is why the two star rating and not just one. Expensive experience. We won't be back.

    (2)

  • Troy P.

    Good spot to come after spending some time at Poipu Beach, I think the open air seating and view make it worth a stop. Our server was really nice and accommodating but pretty slow considering the restaurant is fairly small. I had the pork sandwich since I was kind of burgered out from frequent vacation lunch outings. It was good but not $16.50 good, too bad this is the norm for lunch pricing around here. Luckily we mentioned the 10% yelp check in discount for an appetizer, not sure if he heard us wrong but it ended up being free! The convenience to the beach and views from the restaurant make this a decent lunch choice.

    (3)

  • John C.

    Keep coming back each year thinking the food is going to get better, especially for the price. We're done. See Ya

    (1)

  • D M.

    We ate here a few years back and it was awful. I don't forget things like that and that's why we haven't been back, but my mom wanted to give it a second chance this year while staying in Poipu. Never again!!! The menu is not impressive and the prices are not high by Poipu standards, but they are high for the quality of food you get. My bowl of chowder was akin to what I'd get at Souplantation, nothing to write home about. I ordered the Kalua pork tacos (I guess my California was showing) and they were pretty bad, I didn't even finish them. They made Taco Bell look gourmet. Even my cocktail tasted weird. I must say that the waitress was very friendly, unlike the last time we went there. And it wasn't her fault that it was a million degrees in there even though all of the windows were wide open and it wasn't blazing outside. Now I know I will never be back.

    (1)

  • Josh B.

    This place rips you off on the happy hour Kona when you buy it by the pitcher. The price is 4.99 per FULL pint. The price per pitcher is 14.99. The pitchers at this location apparently are 54 ozs and they leave a fatty head on the beer. Between two people we got 2.5 pints out of one pitcher. So instead of 6 pints for 30 bucks, we got 5. I pointed it out the waitress and she said, yeah, buying the pints by themselves is a better deal. Their Mai Tais are pretty weak as well. Oh well. Hawaii is still the shit. Just don't expect a deal at this location!

    (1)

  • Erica S.

    Worst mai tai ever We went to Brennecke's Beach Broiler for dinner one night after a long, hard day of having fun in the sun. The restaurant is an upstairs, open-air restaurant, right across the street from Poipu beach park. Walking in, it looked like a fun place. We were immediately greeted by a super friendly, professional host who made us feel welcome. We waited for about 10 minutes and were escorted to our table. I ordered a mai tai to start. The menu called it Brennecke's World Famous Mai Tai and it was $6.95. Maybe I was expecting too much? I have to say, this was the worst mai tai I've ever had. I don't know what was wrong with it, but it was undrinkable. Honestly, it tasted like it had wine it. I felt like I wanted to make the bartender drink it as punishment for making such a bad drink. For a minute, I thought it was a joke and we were on some hidden camera show. No such luck. I didn't drink it. My husband didn't want to waste it, so he tried to drink it, but couldn't. I didn't want to complain, as we had food coming, and I didn't want something bad to happen to it. The waitress didn't ask if the mai tai was OK, or seem to notice that it wasn't being drunk. I ordered the Brennecke's Vegetarian Burger for $12.95, which came with fries, even though I didn't notice on the menu that it came with fries. The waitress explained that it was a Garden Burger. It wasn't, but it was good, average good, not spectacular. My husband ordered the Brennecke's Fresh Ahi Tacos for $17.95. They were good, but would have been better for half the price. He also had a Longboard Lager, which was fine. Overall, the best thing about Brennecke's Beach Broiler is its location and the super friendly host. I know that the high prices are a reflection of the touristy area and the beach location, but the food really could be a lot better. The mai tais definitely need to be better. I can only recommend this place if you know what to expect and you don't order a mai tai.

    (2)

  • Kevin V.

    Nice beach atmosphere, friendly enough service are the only reason I give 2 stars. I have an iron stomach and try lots of foods and pretty much never complain about food. But I had the pupu sampler and it was gross! Pretty close to worst food I ever had. I think I might have got a little food poison.

    (2)

  • Qiong S.

    Food was good. Service was better. The restaurant did not look like the picture on a touristy brochure; it looks more like a diner. For that, I'm giving it a 3-star.

    (3)

  • Ryan C.

    Great spot on the beach so we figured we would try it. The best thing about this place was the service. Everyone including our server was really friendly. Apart from the service however our food was just okay. We got some clam chowder and it wasn't good at all. I got a chicken sandwich an my dad got a prime rib and it was just okay. The chicken sandwich was on a burger bun, which surprised me. The prime rib had a lot of fat on it which made it hard to eat. My mom and sister got the ahi salad and ceviche and said it was just okay. Only 3 beers on tap but there was a full bar. I would come back here again to have a drink because everyone is so friendly, but Id have to be drunk to come back for some food.

    (3)

  • A A.

    Every time we come to Kauai, we always make sure to come to Brennecke's. They have an activities/souvenir shop on the first floor, so make sure you enter and take the stairs on the left up to the restaurant. The nice thing about Brennecke's is that the restaurant is outdoors without being outside completely. It's a indoor restaurant with no windows whatsoever! So whether your going through a famous sunshine-downpour or glorious warm day, you have a great view of the ocean and park in front. Not to mention the baby chicks with their mothers that frequent the park's grassy, open fields. Now back to the restaurant... I can safely say that I had the best fish tacos on the island here at Brennecke's. Keoki's came pretty darn close! I will admit that. But something about the ahi tuna here and the sauce it was in just hit every taste bud with such flavor that we had to eat here twice in the same day! The fish here is very fresh, nice portions and happy hour is nice as well. The waitresses were nice. We never had a bad experience with them. Keep in mind folks that Islanders are going to be different than posh Beverly Hills or the LA area. If you're from New York City, I feel like you can handle anything that comes your way. But for those who might not be familiar with sarcasm or feel like they are getting pushy service, you just gotta relax. A little humor and/or a smile goes a long way with the servers- and servers in general! The food is a little pricier than Keoki's, but for the natural sunlight, great (reggae) background music, and beautiful view, we were hard pressed to look elsewhere for a solidly consistent restaurant that we all enjoyed.

    (5)

  • Tank T.

    This place received a lot of bad reviews. I don't know why. I ate here twice w/my wife while staying in Poipu. We each had a great experience. The food was tasty, and the service was even better. We had the pork tacos and the opah the first time. We had the ahi sandwich and fish and chips the second time. Don't take my word for it...find out for yourself.

    (4)

  • Rob N.

    We walked down to Brennecke's for dinner our first night staying nearby, and was pleasantly surprised. Yes, the prices are high, but not outrageous - and the food was very good. Kona brewery beers on draft for ~ $5 - not bad. I had the fish and chips (Ono) which was some of the best I've ever had. My wife had the Opah and veggies dish, which was also really good. We had our kids (5 and 7) who enjoyed their meals - I'd recommend it for the kids. As others have noted, the view of Poipu Beach is great. A nice bonus - I checked in with yelp when I got there and got a $5 discount on the meal we could use right away.

    (4)

  • Sammy L.

    Great restaurant with an ocean view! Here is what we ordered all which was absolutely cooked perfectly! 1. Brennecke's Dry Rubbed St. Louis Ribs special dry rubbed, slow roasted ribs, broiled with plum barbeque sauce. *DELICIOUS* 2. Broiled Opah with Sauteed Shrimp Served with a tomato caper relish and garlic cilantro fried jasmine rice. *The fried rice was the best part for me, it was just so flavorful with just the right amount of oil and garlic* Drinks: Brennecke's World Famous Mai Tais A special recipe of Hawaiian rums, orange liqueurs and juices, rimmed with some li hing powder, so refreshing and just the right amounts of sweet and salty! We were fans!

    (4)

  • Steve R.

    On a tip from our bellhop at the Sheraton, I ordered the fish and chips. I'm not a fish and chips fan, but I like good fresh fish and he said these were the best ever. Welp, they actually were the BEST I've ever had. Damn good. I gave bites to my wife and 16 yr old daughter and we all agreed we'd be back during our stay to get them again. The fish was Ono, and thick pieces. Really, really good! The batter was beer-based. Yes, they were greasy (that's why I rarely ever have them), but man o' man these were worth it. The place is funky cool with a kicking little bar. It was crowded but we got a table for three right away at about 6pm. The tables next to the windows need reservations. The service was friendly and our server had a keen knack for showing up at just the right time. The beer was warm, that was a bummer. And be warned, it's pricey. Don't believe the two $$... it's more like three $$$. All in all, great place. We'll defintely be back.

    (4)

  • Eileen R.

    Came here for the first time 3 years ago and remembered that we liked it. So here we are again, for lunch this time. We started with the Coconut Shrimp which were very tasty. I ordered the Fish and Chips which was local Ono and my husband ordered the Hawaiian Ahi Tuna Sandwich. His was very nice, but mine was outstanding! I peeled the breading off of the fish (not bad breading, but I wanted to get to the thick, moist fish). Wow! It came with fries and cole slaw. The slaw was not overly creamy. Our server was very friendly and had a great sense of humor. Plus, we used the $5 Yelp coupon! Gotta love this place!

    (5)

  • Pete G.

    You gotta be kidding me. Peeps on here saying it's pricy? You ate at a beachside eatery with an incredible view. That's not worth a couple extra bucks to you? We were sitting in a second story restaurant, eating the best sashimi ever (with an incredible hot mustard/soy sauce), 14 pieces for $14.95. So, we decided to eat only from the appetizer menu. We also had the Kama'aina Pupu Platter: Ceviche, fresh ahi sashimi, smoked fish, shrimp and king crab for $18.75 and the Tsunami Shrimp for $9.95, a couple Longboard beers for me and Cosmos for wifey. Oh, and the crispy fries were the cherry on top. So we spent $60 on lunch. But we were in friggin Hawaii man and that lunch was filling and oh so delish! Aloha!

    (5)

  • Bethany L.

    Stopped in here a few weeks ago with a group of 12. They were able to seat us after some time, tho the manager was very kind and apologized for keeping us waiting. It was our last night on the island and none of us minded, so we hung out in their little bar area. The drinks were 'ok', not very strong. The mixed drinks were more sugar than anything. The food/dinner was tasty tho. We had some chips and salsa in the bar while we waiting that were bland. Location is also nice, right by the beach. All in all, cool place!

    (4)

  • John H.

    We were very disappointed with our experience this evening!! The only person who was happy at our party, was my drunk husband, and that was just because the drink he ordered was very tasty. If you want a banana milkshake, order the Brown Nipple. We went in thinking there was happy hour from 8 - 9:30 because of their website. We were very disappointed when we were told they changed that TWO MONTHS ago! We decided to share two appetizers between four of us. Then we had their ice cream pie. Two people had drinks. These 5 items cost us $65!! That is CRAZY!! Each appetizer was roughly $20, and they were not that big. No one left full. We will not be returning!

    (1)

  • Evan T.

    Brennecke's sits on the beach in a fairly nice location. The service is almost outlandishly friendly and helpful. But, unfortunately, when the quality of the food is compared to its price, it falls way short. I had opah with shrimp in a wasabi sauce. It was served with white rice and (steamed?) vegetables such as broccoli, carrot, and a few other things. The dish didn't work wonderfully. For one, the wasabi sauce, which is of the fake wasabi variety, is totally lacking in subtlety. It overwhelms the fish rather than enhancing it. The shrimp served no purpose on the plate. Further, one was deveined and the other was not - inconsistency that is unacceptable at $30 a plate. The fish itself was cooked perfectly, but the preparation was marred by the large number of bones left in it. Still, it was the high point of the meal, and bites of fish that weren't over sauced were quite good. The veggies were an afterthought, overcooked and poorly integrated into the dish. The beer, unlike most places on the island, is actually priced fairly reasonably. The selection, is weak, however. The only decent beers offered are a few of Kona's blanderer offerings. If you don't mind hugely over paying, Brennecke's can deliver well cooked fish. Unfortunately, everything else falls short.

    (2)

  • Carlos Z.

    Food sucks, Mai tai sucked, nice view. One of the least expensive spots to eat dinner in Piopu for a reason. Stay away!

    (1)

  • Steve L.

    June 14th - I asked for water with ice and it was an ordeal with the manager on duty the night of June 14th, he decided to be a jerk. Sorry, but i just asked for water and ice. Honestly, call me at 650-743-3599 if you want to know who disrespectful the owners son was. June 22nd - Okay, a week later and the owners son crank calls me at 3am. Drop it!

    (1)

  • Sparky T.

    Nice location- right accross the street from the beach with views from the upstairs dining area. Service was good. Pricesa as high as you might expect for the location. Fish and chips with fresh opah was tasty but a bit too much batter for my taste.

    (3)

  • Allison F.

    Very family friendly restaurant! Ate there for first time in 2012 with very crabby 1.5 year old. Waitress went out of her way to accommodate and cheer him up. Returned in April 2014 and had similar great service, waiter made an effort to connect with the kids, food and drinks were great, and the view can't be beat. It is pricey but so is all food in Poipu. We can't wait to visit again on a future trip.

    (5)

  • Jenn O.

    We went here for lunch a couple of times during our stay and the food was pretty good but not great. Seemed a little spendy for what you got but I think what you're really paying for is the view. It is a nice place to sit, enjoy a cool drink and watch the water. The service was very friendly, no complaints there at all. I'd go back again for lunch for sure. Especially when spending a day on the beach. It's a convenient place to get out of the sun for a bit even if your suit is still a little damp.

    (3)

  • Whitney S.

    My fiancé and I came here for lunch on our last day in Kauai. I got the ahi tuna wrap (it was a special of the day) and my fiancé got the chicken sandwich. We both really enjoyed our meals. Service was great too. Based on their menu, it looks like they have a pretty good happy hour. I'll be back the next time we visit the island.

    (5)

  • Beach Bum W.

    Just had a great meal tonight. I have been coming to the island 22 years. I like what they have done with the light menu. My clams linguine was very good and reasonable priced. Service was excellent with Celia. Good place for children. I do recommend getting reservations as it is very popular

    (4)

  • Annie C.

    This place is OK. The service is good. Very friendly staff. I've had better fish and chips, but it was OK. Great view of Poipu beach. There was no wait on a Monday evening. Overall, it was just OK.

    (2)

  • Paul K.

    Great service, great food and the owner is a down to earth guy who makes the atmosphere a fun place to be. The view is epic during sunset, so bring your camera. Be sure to make reservations in advance and enjoy! If you are vacationing and need some surf gear, stop by the surf shop next door and support Brennecke's there as well.

    (5)

  • T L.

    Great location with picturesque views. They have an express style shop on the street level if you need to get your food and go and a sit down take your time up on the second floor. We ordered the Ahi burger and the pulled pork sammy that came with fries and a pickle. The food was mediocre at best. For the price you pay you should get more quality or a decent portion size. Your paying for the views.

    (3)

  • Robyn G.

    We chose this restaurant more for the location than the food. We were looking for a beach front location where we could eat dinner and watch the sun set (we had reservations at the Beach House the following night). We managed to get a table where we could enjoy the view. The atmosphere, like most locations in HI, was very casual. We were seated quickly and waited for our server, Falcon to arrive. Yep, that was his name, Falcon. He was a cool guy, a local with a very laid back attitude, friendly and helpful when it came to menu selections. We both ordered fish as our entrees. Between the two of us we had Opa, Ono and Mahimahi. The fish was nice and moist and the veggies were very tasty. Overall the meal was good, I wouldn't say excellent, but good. I thought it was a bit pricy for what we got, but that is to be expected at most restaurants in the area. The restaurant has a full bar and by the time we left it was hopping.

    (4)

  • Adam K.

    This place is really nothing special. I had the fish and chips, which were overpriced at $22.50. They were fine but nothing amazing. My wife had a pesto pasta dish with chicken and it was also nothing to write home about. I don't have a specific complaint other than you are paying for the location, not the food.

    (3)

  • JD Z.

    Had a great meal here with a party of 10 to celebrate an anniversary. The service was friendly and the atmosphere was definitely "beach". Good views of the Pacific from the dining room upstairs. They have several Hawaiian beers on tap and some local rums too. Everyone seemed happy with their cocktails and the bartenders were friendly. I wouldn't give the food a 10 out of 10, but it was definitely good. Lots of fish options, prepared well, and a couple meat options as well. I had a prime rib and shrimp combo that was good. I do think the prices are a bit high for the quality of food, but the seafood lovers at the table seemed pretty happy with their choices. Seems like most dinners were $25.

    (4)

  • Elizabeth S.

    WOW. Haven't eaten somewhere this bad in ages. Should've known this was a tourist trap when zero locals were there and the waitress was almost aggressive in how she yelled, "Aloooooha!!!!!!! What brings you here, pleasure or business - or both!!???!!!" when she came to the table. Not sincere. You can tell when it's play ed up for a bigger tip or to make you try and forget it's not as bad as it really is. Someone else wrote below that this is a place that needs a Gordon Ramsay makeover. Nail. on. head. Had the exact thought. I got the fish and chips. Just like another reviewer wrote below, all breading and no fish. Like a bland donut, gross. Served on a chintzy pile of craptastic fries that looked like they'd been re-fried. Watery sodas that were never re-filled. Sloooooow service. Literally, about 20 minutes for water to come to your table when they had plenty of servers. My heart sank as I realized I'd blown good money on a tourist trap when I should've known better. Just wanted to eat and LEAVE, that's how little I was enjoying myself. As looked at people at other tables, it honestly felt like we were giving pained looks to one another like, "How stupid are we for getting suckered into this place??" At least the view was beautiful. Lesson learned. Will never be back.

    (1)

  • Jill P.

    Fantastic sunset and ocean view. Our food was delicious, I got the Ono and it was wonderful. Table was lovely, nice friendly restaurant. Everything was enjoyable from the cocktails and service, will definately put this one on my list for our next visit to this island.

    (5)

  • Brent D.

    Great beach restaurant for a hot day on the beach. Drinks were good and the lunch was reasonably priced. Definitely a place to go before or after hitting up Poipu beach for some snorkeling or surfing! They had many old photos and posters there were fun to look at and their servers seemed to enjoy working there which always makes it more fun to eat :).

    (4)

  • Lynn S.

    My hubby and I went to Brennecke's with our two teens. Hubby had the Mac' nut encrusted Mahi - he' s a meat eater, and he said it was his favorite meal on the island. I had the ahi over their house-prepared porcini ravioli... I thought it was very good. The pesto cream sauce was not too creamy and didn't taste like it was thickened with flour. It was very nice, as was my husbands fruit sauce. Those fruit sauces can taste canned and overly sweet, bit not at Brenneckes. My daughter had the fish tacos, and since we all tasted each others food, decided hers was the least favorite and just OK. Maybe serving it with a tangy cabbage slaw would be better? My son had the chicken rigatoni in creamy pesto gorgonzola sauce. He forgot to ask if it could be done without the Gorgonzola, and he still liked it. I thought it was quite good, although I try to order fresh fish while on the islands. We skipped dessert. Oh, and my lime in the coconut martini was excellent, btw... better than the mai tai, which was fine, but not "oh my word, you have to have it.". Have the martini...

    (4)

  • Russell B.

    The parental in laws took us here and initially once again I wasn't impressed at first by the appearance of the place and set my expectations low again. I figured based on the fairly basic menu, nice location, and simple old decor the kitchen would just phone it in. When will I learn? Having a bit of a carb craving I decided to go with the ahi with porcini ravioli. The ahi had a nice little sear on it with the middle still nice and red. Although the ahi itself didn't have a lot of flavor (which I find it typically rarely does) the nice herby, garlicky pesto paired well with it and the nicely cooked atypically generous portion of ravioli. It also went well with a beer first experienced on this recent trip, Kona Brewking Co.'s Wailua Wheat Ale with its light flavor and sweet passion fruit finish. Ahhh. I need to find this locally hopefully while its still in season and stock up. All around the table everyone was extremely happy with their food. A rareity amongst our group of diverse palettes. At first glance the simple presentation of the restaurant and menu would lead you to think that this place would be overpriced, but I think this place competes well with Keoki's in quality and value.

    (4)

  • Riley D.

    Nice setting, but Seafood that has seen better days.... Seafood overcooked and taste as if it had sitting for awhile.

    (1)

  • John F.

    Nice bar off of Poipu beach park. If you can, get a seat by the south windows to enjoy a good view. We came here twice. The first was for a happy hour where we had about 25 people. The wait staff were friendly and helped us but the hostesses were a bit grumpy with us when we left since they had to rearrange the tables and cleanup as we were trickling out, oh well. Everyone had a good time drinking and eating fried goodies. Second time we came I had the pork sandwich with the plum bbq sauce and fried onions. It was pretty damn delicious, fries weren't bad either. The menu will look pricy but everywhere you go in Hawaii is, so just shrug and pay.

    (4)

  • Nicole T.

    Months after our vacation and we are still talking about our phenomenal experience at Brennecke's! The drinks were delicious and refreshing for the adults and the kids, the nachos were out of this world delicious, and the kalua pork sandwiches were equally exceptional! We aren't usually dessert people, but we splurged and ordered the lava cake. OMG! There are no words to describe how delicious the chocolate cake was. We ordered nachos to take back to our condo and the staff was kind enough to package everything separately so we could assemble it all later for a perfect Brennecke's to go experience! We will definitely be back, hopefully some day soon!

    (5)

  • Tom D.

    Great view, awful seafood. I ordered the seafood platter so they got several tries to win me over and failed repeatedly: fish in the ceviche was grey and 'overcooked', smoked marlin was dry and tough, king crab leg parts were mushy, ahi sashimi was fine. Wife's lemon-crusted ahi was not particularly fresh. Clam chowder was good. As another reviewer wrote, the ocean view is better from the picnic tables in the park across the street, so pick up tacos or sandwiches in Koloa and give this place a miss.

    (2)

  • Natalee B.

    This place gets an extra star for the beautiful view! The food was pretty good too, although a bit pricey. I had the ahi wrap which was the special of the day and a red ale. It wasn't too busy when we went around 11:30am, so we got to sit right next to the window which really made it nice. I would recommend coming here.

    (4)

  • Lauren B.

    When I go on vacation I am totally down to do as the locals do, get in to the local vibe and check out 'their' spots but...every once in a while...I wanna see what the other burnt mainlanders do for fun and where they get there Mai Tais from and that place my friend is Brennecke's. I got the Mahi Mahi and shrimp in a garlic butter sauce which could've been from anywhere since it wasn't particularly memorable but it wasn't expensive, the service was fun and who doesn't appreciate a late'r' evening happy hour?! I know I do!

    (3)

  • Tom L.

    Excellent service, great food, great drinks. We're very pleased with our dinner here and would definitely recommend it.

    (5)

  • Lauren A.

    Excellent view. We preferred the Mai Tai's over the margaritas. We also really enjoyed the Aji fish tacos and fish and chips.

    (4)

  • Jay M.

    Not what it used to be. Sorry. Fish does not taste fresh, no bread (are you kidding me), no salad (are you kidding me), service is from a kid not a pro, and way to pricy and the reason its not crowded anymore. They got our last, and we always stopped since we have a timeshare next door. Oh, and when I order Tanguray gin, dont use well gin. We can tell the difference. I hate to be cold, however, they know what they are doing.

    (2)

  • Thomas B.

    We only had an appetizer and beer. View perfect. Appetizer delicious. We were very pleased. The appetizer was coconut shrimp.

    (4)

  • Ryan D.

    My wife and I both had the fish and chips, they were excellent. It also comes with delicious coleslaw. The Mai Thai I had to drink was mostly rum, which I didn't mind. My wife had the brown nipple which was very refreshing. Overall it was a great lunch.

    (4)

  • Jessica L.

    This restaurant is all sorts of beach paraphernalia wrapped up in one starkly rectangular building. Going up the stairs to the restaurant, I wasn't sure what to expect. The menu was broad enough, and the wait staff was friendly, though much friendlier towards each other than to us. The view to Poi'pu beach is great, as we were there right around sunset, and feeling the cool breeze was pleasant as well. The food though? Eh. I've had better, and for much lower prices, right here at home. The fish was overcooked, potatoes were cold, and the ceviche was an interesting shade of gray with a very firm texture, served with...some curiously un-delicious olives. Short story: drinks look pretty (too bad I have about 4 years to wait), view is gorgeous, waitresses are smiley, and the food is...an accessory.

    (3)

  • Ryan C.

    Wife and I went here a couple of nights ago as a date night to have some alone time. Recommend reservations as it can be very busy and there was a lot of people waiting in the bar area for a table. Food was pretty good, it basically boils down to two options (seafood and prime rib). The wife ordered the crab legs and I got the shrimp and prime rib. Both were great but not deserving of the price. Our meal came to a 100 dollars which was with a couple of drinks, the two most expensive dinners, and a dessert to share. We both loved the atmosphere and the wonderful views.

    (3)

  • jessica w.

    This place is pretty good - nothing to write home about, but not disappointed. We went here for dinner our first night on the island. The place was busy; however, our server was attentive and friendly. It's a fun, upbeat environment (not too loud). We ordered the mahi mahi and ahi (an evening special) - both were good. The garlic mashed potatoes were delicious. Portions were decent. I'd go back for lunch and the view. Overall, worth a try. Nice t-shirt selection if you are looking for a last minute souvenir.

    (3)

  • Henry P.

    Pricey. Lunch for 3 with NO booze came to 80 bucks. Welcome to Kauai. Pupu Platter had very small portions for the price. Not worth it. We really wanted a burger, but we saw some being delivered to other tables and they were just Costco burger patties, pre-formed and frozen. We skipped that. They did have Ono fish and chips, which were quite good. But they better have been for the price. The pulled pork sandwich was OK fine. Service was friendly. Sure, the location and view is great. But if you want better quality food, you're better off elsewhere. Overall...meh.

    (2)

  • Chris W.

    Yes the prices are expensive... But it's a fairly lively joint with good fares and good drinks. Had there pork tacos which were pretty good and there premium Mai Tai is very good.

    (4)

  • Don K.

    Had lunch. Pork sandwich was good along with hot lava volcano cake for dessert. The view is great on the second floor. It is always on my list when I am in poipu.

    (3)

  • James D.

    A little pricey, like everything on the island but, the food was tasty, the server was very friendly & professional the open air, second floor view overlooking the beach is very nice. The kalua pork sandwich really hit the spot after a day f snorkeling & burning at the beach.

    (4)

  • Jon P.

    Perfect location- with a reservation we were able to sit near the window with a great view of the sunset. Good service- our server was very efficient and was able to answer all of our questions about the menu. His recommendations were dead on as well. Great food- the fish and chips have a bit of a heavy batter, but the ono stands up to it. The grilled ono was even better with the grill flavor really complementing the fish. This is definitely a place we will visit again in Kauai.

    (5)

  • Phil K.

    A little pricey for what it was. Had the combo fish plate, and tasted great. Excellent Ahi.

    (3)

  • Ben O.

    TL;DR: Good beach views, pricey food. Get the Ono or Opah. I had the two-fish combo dinner with Ono and Opah, both grilled. Both were excellent. Potatoes au gratin were really tasty. Steamed vegetables were good. My first introduction to how expensive Hawaii can be. 4 stars. Girlfriend doesn't care for fish, so she thought a hamburger would be safe. She suspected it was a frozen patty from Costco. She asked for coleslaw instead of fries, got the fries anyway. The server recognized the error immediately and brought slaw, which was predictably standard, soggy, and over-dressed. 1.5 stars. Staff was friendly and rushed to get everyone's drinks in before the happy-hour prices expired. Lesson: Drink beer, eat fish. Get there early.

    (3)

  • Ted L.

    Just ate dinner here tonight. This is a great place for local seafood, and steaks. Even on a Monday night, it was still a pretty long wait to get in without a reservation. We have eaten here before, and have always had good service. The bar tender here is a wizard. I went to the bar to order some drinks while we waited for a table, and he was just a drink making machine. Did I mention the drink menu yet? It's super! Lots of fruity, Hawaiian drinks, and plenty of good virgin drinks for the kids. I had prime rib, my wife ate the fish over pasta. It was all just fantastic. Great kid menu too! Definitely would return here. This place has been a staple of PoiuPu beach for years. Everytime we go to Kauai, we stop in for a meal here.. Usually breakfast or lunch, and it is always yummy.

    (4)

  • Kelli C.

    I went here for my last night here with my family. My dad booked a table by the window so we would have a great view. With the exception of the window seat, this was a poor choice. The food was bleh. I ordered the stuffed mushrooms which were way too buttery and garlicky. Beyond that, it had no taste. My daughter's hamburger was thin and left a lot to be desired. My husband's fish and chips were limp and nothing to brag about. The waiter actually argued with my daughter on what she was ordering, and when I jumped in and said that she did indeed want the hamburger (not fish), he acted offended. I've never had a waiter before that acted like we were privileged to have him there, until this visit. Finally, the tables were smushed together and we kept bumping into our neighbors. The meal was way over priced, and definitely not worth it. This is my first negative review on Yelp. It was that disappointing.

    (2)

  • PJ M.

    It gets a good rating because of the view. Probably good also if you have kids and want to rock some fish and chips and keep the tab minimal. I did feel like they were "pushing the meatloaf" a bit. We walked in and the bartender pitched us on a "new" tequilla and muscles before we even sat down for a drink. At our table, the waiter also pushed the muscles, so it struck me as odd. Not to mention the t-shirt, hat, logo beer mug shop on the 1st floor. The other thing is the fluorescent lighting - total bummer. I felt like I was in a classroom. Not a bad spot - definitely a good sunset destination and the staff was really friendly.

    (3)

  • Allison R.

    This was such a great restaurant - I would definitely recommend eating here if you are looking for something more low-key and casual. Their drinks were average price and delicious. We went with the lava something or another which was basically a pina colada with strawberry in it - just great!! We also had the calamari app which was a great starter, really well cooked! Their meals were a bit more expensive than we originally anticipated based on the decor and casualness of this place but it was worth the price! We had a shrimp pasta dish which had an excellent assortment of really fresh veggies in it as well as a good amount of shrimp! Overall this place was great - nice casual atmosphere, overlooking the beach, just felt very real and the food hit the spot!

    (4)

  • Nali M.

    i've been here twice and had a less than stellar experience. my first experience was during lunch. a couple of my friends and i decided to try brennecke's because we were being indecisive about where to eat. we sat down and were pretty hungry. there was a table that was seated a few minutes after us, and they were taken care of first. finally, after waiting five minutes for a glass of water, our server introduced herself. holy moly! she was a weird one. i felt like she was something out of the twilight zone. her entire attitude was a bit much for all three of us. don't get me wrong, she was really nice...she was just a bit, odd. i wasn't sure what to get, so, she recommended the fish and chips. according to her, these were the BEST fish and chips in the entire world. well, they weren't. and they were expensive for what they were. $20?! give me a break. anyway, after that experience, i waited a while to go back. the second time i tried brennecke's, i took my now-husband there for dinner. we both had the rib-eye steak. now, when i go to a restaurant to eat steak, i'm expecting it to be reallllly good. unfortunately, i can't say that it was. the steak was very fatty and had lots of gristle. also, for a restaurant cut, it was very thin. i ordered mine medium well, and the temperature came out right. my husband asked for medium rare, and it came out more well than mine!! it definitely wasn't satisfying! service during dinner was alright, but, towards the end i felt like we were being rushed. and to top it off, when we finally paid our tab, we were told to exit out the side door (on the side that nukumoi is); which was pretty sketchy! overall, blahhhhhh. can't say that i will ever come here again.

    (2)

  • A W.

    The beer battered fish and chips I had were amazing. Service was slow and it was pricy. Nice view.

    (3)

  • Tiffani C.

    We ate dinner here in April. The waiter (Keone) was wonderful, funny, and fast. He gave great recommendations about drinks and food, and really made a huge difference in our experience. We live in San Francisco, and the price we paid for our steak is exactly what we expected. The view and drinks however, were FANTASTIC and made it VERY VERY much worth stopping by here. All around great.

    (5)

  • John G.

    We had just finished a hike nearby and needed some grub. The Yelp reviews were mostly positive and we gave it a shot. Super casual atmosphere and friendly wait staff. I got the Grandma sized (I think that's how they refer to it) fish and chips. AWESOME! Washed it down with 2-6 cocktails and was completely satisfied. The 5 others in my party were likewise pleased. This might be the best casual dining spot in the South.

    (4)

  • Marcie C.

    Awesome view - casual beach front dining. This is basically why you would go here. Food was OK. In our group of 12, most people did not think their meal was very good and appetizers were OK. Service is on island time - which slow is fine on vacation, right?

    (2)

  • Jennifer P.

    I can not explain how disappointed and frustrated my husband and I were with Brennecke's. We were very much looking forward to the "friendly service" and great food, but that was not our experience. First, they ran out of fish and they also ran out of the steak entrée my husband was interested in ordering. Then we waited over an hour for our food with no apology from our waitress. She just said thank you for not being rude to her. Meanwhile, we could hear the host turning people away, telling them they have out of food and to make arrangements to have dinner somewhere else. When our food finally arrived it was mediocre and still no apology for running out of fish or for the food taking over an hour. It would have been nice to have been comped a free drink or appetizer or dessert for our patience. We actually overheard another table asking if they could be comped for waiting so long for their food, and the host came over and argued with them. It was very awkward and unpleasant. Our bill ended up being around $100 and it was the worst dinner we had during our stay in Kauai.

    (1)

  • stacey w.

    TASTY drinks! We came for a cocktail after a day of sight seeing. Friendly bar tenders and quality, yummy featured drinks.

    (5)

  • Carey M.

    Good food. Good views. Friendly service. The Fish & Chips and Philly Cheese Steak are good. If it's a cool windy day, bring a jacket because it can be chilly if you're by the window.

    (3)

  • Kc S.

    It's all about the ocean view! Sit on the second floor next to a window and everything tastes good! This is what poipu is about. Casual atmosphere, family friendly, and if you hit happy hour the prices are a bit more reasonable! I always order the ahi, and it is always good. I have eaten here at least a dozen times, and will continue to do so when visiting. The cocktails are consistently good as well, my husband especially enjoys the Mai tais!

    (3)

  • Allison M.

    I'm sure this place does good business because they are the only restaurant near the main beach in Poipu but OMG was this a horrible experience! We paid over $125 for the hands-down worst meal on Kauai. My meal, shrimp pasta, tasted like lemon pinesol. My husband asked how I was even swallowing it. The cocktails had NO booze in them, and believe me, I was stone sober and pissed, so I needed some booze. Do Not Go Here. Save yourself.

    (1)

  • Lenny G.

    Mai Tai us a must, great service and if u get the nachos, get the pulled pork too. Great view of the beach and water

    (4)

  • Steven W.

    Service was a bit slow, and this was typical beachfront diner stuff. You can find better food than this in Poipu...

    (2)

  • BnT B.

    Ceviche was great! Look for Shelly.

    (4)

  • Linh N.

    Location by the beach is convenient. I ordered to go at the bar, I had a cup of New England-style Clam Chowder which was delicious! However the ceviche was awful. It had alot of chips and not enough fish (which I'm not complaining bc the fish was gross). I'll have to try other foods there next time. I spent about $20 for one person for lunch on these two items which isn't worth it. Oh yea, they charge 10% for take out orders. If you try this place.. try the clam chowder, you won't be sorry! And if you want to try the ceviche for yourself.. don't say I didn't warn you!

    (3)

  • Michael W.

    I went in there last Saturday, the night before I went back to Cali. We had a couple of drinks which were amazing and we caught the last 5 or so songs of one of there regular musicians name Milo. He's the real deal! Amazing bass player/singer doing a one man band thing with a loop station and effects pedals. It really was a perfect way to end the vacation. The owner is super nice too and makes you feel very at home. My family and I couldn't have been happier with the place. Great location too.

    (5)

  • Tim T.

    Yummy food (best fish and chips I've ever had) and good view. Very pricey.

    (4)

  • Dan P.

    Seems like this place is a hit or miss... but for us it was a total hit. Excellent service; great prime rib; great mai tais; beautiful sunset; all around a perfect evening. For our entire 2 week vacation, dinner here was my most enjoyed meal. (We visited in august 2009)

    (5)

  • Thomas C.

    Sandwich shop downstairs was OK. The Hero sando was a slab of cured meats.... a little dense for my palate. But wifey loved the club sandwich. The shave(d) ice was better than a sno(w) cone but far inferior to that found elseware on the island.... Brenneckes needs to step up and buy one of those fancy shave(d) ice machines. The ice grains were in the .5-1mm range and those are a bit rough for my spoiled and cultured shave(d) ice palate!

    (3)

  • Keith A.

    Went here on our last full day in Kauai to kill sometime on our unofficial day of "do whatever comes to mind". We all wanted something light to eat. Problem is - it was happy hour so that meant I'm dumb and ordered the Spicy Black Mussels which meant I ate the whole thing and nearly ruined my appetite for dinner in about 3 hours. Which means it was pretty decent. Not spectacular but I was liking it. The restaurant itself is sort of a strange mix of Surf theme mashed against a good ol' sports bar. Yes it's just sports overall but there's something weird to have a bunch of surfing memorabilia mixed in with football stuff. It just doesn't seem right. Anyways - the service at the place is pretty good. Everyone knows what they're doing, they're efficient on taking orders and remembering who got what and they do great on the follow ups. This place isn't great and there's not reason to go out of way to get here but if you're at the beach or in the neighborhood with a need to get some food in your belly this is a good place to go.

    (3)

  • Roach D.

    The is my favorite spot to drop some dough on a meal while I watch the exquisite sunset over lovely Poipu beach. There is some nice fish, burgers (including veggie burgers) and a pretty good salad bar. I love to sip some pineapple juice while watching the sun slip down beyond the horizon... Unfortunately while you watch the sun go down, the money in your wallet also goes down... waay down. I still like to visit Brennecke's at least once while I am on the island, you leave all your money with them but in exchange you get to eat some pretty good food and take away some wonderful memories .

    (3)

  • Thomas M.

    By far this was the WORST dinner we had in Kauai... so bad that it put me in a bad mood. The food tasted processed, canned, previously frozen and tasteless. The interior of the restaurant was extremely out dated with a 1980's feel, and seemed like an Island inspired Diner. The worst part about the whole experience is that they are charging $30 per plate, which is comparable to all of the high end nice restaurants in Kauai. Don't make the same mistake I did, go to Tidepools at the Hyatt instead you will be much happier and it will cost the same. Run!!!

    (1)

  • Marcus K.

    Great view. Pretty good service (though there were a few lapses such as refilling water, getting utensils awhile after getting food) but the food was good. The bbq pork sandwhich had really tasty sauce. Went back a few nights later and had the Monday night ahi special. It was sooooooo good.

    (4)

  • Les W.

    Excellent service and good food. We were told there was a 30 min wait, but were seated in 10 min. The appetizer plater was tasty with a variety of fish. The main fish course was good as well, but on the high price ($25) end. We will go back.

    (4)

  • D J.

    "BBQ Kalua Pork Sandwich - Local luau style kalua pork on a kaiser roll. Guava plum BBQ sauce and crispy sweet onions." need I say more!?! awesome lunch! My friends and I had this for lunch the first day, and the last day of our trip, it was so good. I really mean it when I give this sandwich 5 stars. On top of that the wait staff where really great, and the owner was polite and even bussed our table. after lunch I shook his hand for one of the best pork sandwiches I've ever eaten! no joke! The guava plum BBQ sauce was fantastic, a nice Hawaiian version of BBQ. The pork was fall-off-the-bone tender and the bun was soft and moist from the delicious juices from the meat. The crispy onions on top where the cherry on the top. The fries where equally as good and I believe were pre-battered which made them crazy crispy and delicious! I also had some of the fish and chips which although not traditional the Ono fish was delicious. For a sleepy island that is not always appreciative of tourists we really enjoyed our experience at Brennecke's! And a special shout out to our waitress, Jabrielle! she was great!

    (5)

  • John W.

    Great food and an even better atmosphere. Open air dining room with a beautiful view of Poipu beach. You gotta eat here.

    (4)

  • Marc K.

    expecting a gourmet meal? if so you're at the wrong place, this is all about simple food,, burgers some fish fried and raw in a very casual beach bar restaurant. come. enjoy the drinks enjoy the beach enjoy the food and just chill. If the service is slow, so what? if the food isn't perfect so what? it's all about where you are!

    (4)

  • Kathy A.

    After coming to this restaurant for over 20 years, I'm sorry to say it has gone downhill. They no longer have their salad bar or the delicious taro rolls. I ordered the Caesar Salad, which was simply a bare plate with a few pieces of lettuce and shavings of Parmesan cheese. Most of the dinner entrees were $25 and above and pretty mediocre considering the price. The only good deals they seemed to offer were a few different burgers on the back on the menu for $10-15. I used to love this restaurant and sadly I don't think I will be going back.

    (1)

  • Franklin A.

    This is an okay place to if you have no other choices. The view is great and that's about it. The food is average and overpriced. The service was too formal for the atmosphere. Gets two stars because of the great beach across the street.

    (2)

  • Marc P.

    Food, service, and view are great. But this is not a $$ restaurant. It's more like $$$. Dinner for 4 with 1 beer and 1 lava flow (excellent!) was $175.

    (4)

  • S H.

    The beers were fairly cheap, $3, so +1 star for that. You can see the ocean across the road and beyond the park, so there's another plus. But don't bother eating here. Went at lunchtime. Fish and chips were 1/2 batter and 1/2 fish. Batter was at least 1/2 inch thick: that's not right. Ahi sandwich was bland and served well done. Entrees were pricey for lunch (almost $20). Fries were obviously cooked in the fish oil and had more fish taste than the fish.

    (2)

  • Erika H.

    The prices are high. The food is okay. The service is okay. But . . . the location is worth its weight in gold. We took our kids to Brennecke's when they were younger, and the staff made them feel welcomed with tropical fish coloring sheets, etc. We've gone back at least once on every trip since, including most recently on November 12. It's lovely to sit upstairs in the open-air dining room, enjoying the balmy breezes, swaying palms, and ocean view, in a casual tropical atmosphere. Brennecke's is exactly the type of place that people daydream about while sitting on the freeway back home in bumper to bumper traffic. I wish I was there . . .

    (3)

  • Lorrie M.

    We had a perfectly pleasant experience here for lunch. Four adults, a 17-year old, a 9 year old and a 6 year old. The service as well as the food was fantastic!

    (5)

  • April S.

    View is great and location is hard to match. I ordered an ahi salad rare with dressing on the side. What happened next was a comedy of errors. The bartender forgot to put dressing on side so my salad was drenched- which she immediately recognized and corrected. 2nd- then the ahi came out super well done- like a hard rock- which again she apologized for and recognized and fixed. 3. When closing out our tab, she charged is for someone else's more expensive tab- which we then caught- she apologized and said she would fix it and we would not be charged twice. Lastly- we are back in Seattle and found that we have been charged twice- called them and they told us we would have to speak to an accountant- and to call back another day. The food was not worth all this trouble. To their credit, every employee who saw what was happening seemed like they cared and tried to help- except now that we have to dispute out double charge. The salad was not good- lettuce was really wet and ahi was suppose to be seared on the outside- but just felt like a limp piece of raw fish thrown on top of wet lettuce.

    (1)

  • Hannah Q.

    The food was palatable, but severely overpriced and, frankly, disappointing. This is exactly the type of restaurant that only survives (and thrives!) because of its location. If I lived permanently in the Poipu area, I can't imagine ever having this conversation: "Hey, honey, let's go out to eat tonight." "Yeah, sure, sounds like a good idea. Where'd you like to go?" "Well, I'm sort of dying for a taste of Brennecke's. They're food is so fabulous, I just can't wait to bite into one of those diabetes-inducing taro rolls." "mmmm. Yeah, I know what you mean. Oh, and that iceberg lettuce salad bar is off the hook. Can't get tastiness like that anywhere else but Brennecke's and Abdows. Yum." The bottom line is that the entree prices are akin to Tidepools', which I never got to try out but I know has a more ambitious menu. If I'm spending $30+ a head, why would I opt for food that's flat and, on the mainland, would warrant $15 an entree at best?

    (3)

  • Julie F.

    My family came here last night and I was a little nervous because I knew the menu was a bit limited. There are 8 of us (including a 3 year old & a 5 year old), and it is near impossible for all of us to be happy with our meals. We were unbelievably surprised!!! Every one of us was beyond happy with what we ordered. Those who had Caesar salad were pleased, I had the romaine salad with pears and loved it. For meals, we had the mahi mahi, the Ono, the seared ahi appetizer, grilled chicken, and the Cajun shrimp. The mahi mahi was delicious, as was the seared ahi. The rest of the family loved the various dishes they had. My 5 year old nephew tried fish for the first time (we ordered him the fish and chips, grilled, not fried) and he loved it. For dessert, we had the chocolate lava cake and the ice cream pie. The lava cake was delicious. I didn't try the ice cream pie because I don't like coffee ice cream, but my parents loved it. Price wise, the whole meal was very reasonable. 2 of us split a bottle of wine, the rest of us had soda or tea, 4 salads, 6 entrees, and 2 kids meals was less than $350 all in, with gratuity. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place, especially if you area staying in the area. We are at the Marriott Waiohai around the corner, and the location is perfect.

    (5)

  • Camille M.

    5 stars for one reason, and one reason only. **Trumpets blaring** Best Mai Tai in My World. * *I changed this part for Leonard A.....because apparently I could be wrong,,,to be updated. I have searched far and wide for the most excellent Mai Tai. I have spent several trips to Kauai making it a point to sample the Mai Tai's the island over. Brenneke's is it. The last time we visited Kauai, we must have frequented this establishment 4-5 times in a week. The regular Mai Tai is most excellent, but the extreme Mai Tai is "The Bomb." Crap, I can't believe I said that. I can't even remember the official name of the extreme Mai Tai, but that is simply a testament to it's powers. This is the elixir that occupied the Holy Grail. I would give up whiskey for this nectar of the gods....well, maybe. Oh, and the food is pretty good too. I have had the opah, the ono, the crab legs, the rib eye, and the kalua pork. I loves me some pig and fish, and I have never been disappointed. But then, the gorgeous location, along with friendly "island" hospitality make this a must visit place in Poipu. Don't miss the spectacular sunset from Poipu Beach...if you're lucky you may even see the "green flash" before the sun disappears from sight.

    (5)

  • paul S.

    Ideal setting overlooking Poipu beach/park. Great service/friendly/aloha staff. I liked the rock music & sporty/local decor. Good fish. OK prices. Plenty of parking. Great snorkling across the street at Poipu Beach park. Easy to book Kauai adventures down stairs... Then, you can get half off rentals for all your beach/surf/snorkle stuff at the shop next door.

    (4)

  • Fifinella F.

    I have to say the ahi sashimi was the best I have ever eaten....I went back a few days later just to have more of it! The reason for the missing star - the salmon was fishy (another person in my party had ordered that) and they are a bit over-priced for the basics (like non-alcoholic bevs, etc). Overall the food is great, even the pupu nachos and the service was great both times we were there. Great place to hit up if you're driving through south shore or after a good morning of snorkeling at Po'ipu Beach!

    (4)

  • Cat C.

    The Pupu Platter was pretty good and filled us up although we were only looking for a snack. It's a very tourist spot being right on Poipu Beach and serves any kind of island drink you can imagine!

    (4)

  • Cameron D.

    The view is definitely the best part of this place. We had a subpar fish salad and a worse batch of nachos (not sure how you screw nachos up). On top of that, the service was SLOW, even by Hawai'i standards. If you need to grab some lunch, there are worse options out there but keep your expectations low for Brennecke's.

    (2)

  • Lyn S.

    Stopped in for happy hour a few nights ago. $5 mai-tais and $1 off coconut shrimp. Both were excellent; service was friendly. Open air second floor with nice view

    (4)

  • Ellen E.

    Very nice view, which you'll pay for. Food was okay, not what I'd expect for the price. Very friendly and attentive waitstaff. Still, ouch prices for a nice view, basically.

    (3)

  • Amy G.

    Overpriced. Food is fair. They served me a glass if Cabernet cold in a frosted glass.

    (2)

  • Jon N.

    Decent food but nothing to write home about, pricey for what it is. This is more about the location overlooking Poipu Beach. Fish tacos were fine.

    (3)

  • Ray D.

    Poipu Beach is absolutely incredible. And our window seat at Brennecke's give us the perfect backdrop for a very nice lunch (ask for a Window Seat when they take your name - it's worth the extra wait). Had their Kalua Pork sandwich - came with a very tasty BBQ sauce and the pork was very nicely done. Not bad fries too - they were happy to bring extra tarter sauce for dipping. Wife enjoyed Ahi Fish Tacos. A good selection of condiments to dress it up with nice black beans and slightly dry spanish rice. Did one of their "World Famous MaiTais". Read below that some questioned reasonable alcohol content. No question on this one - warm all the way down. It was a nice lunch - but we probably won't go back again.

    (3)

  • M D.

    We were seated right away on a Friday evening just after 5:30. I ordered the ribeye special which was cooked just the way I ordered it. My husband had the hamburger and said it was good, although they don't give you as many fries as some other Poipu eateries. Our server was efficient, pleasant, not too chit chatty. The GM came to our table to check in on us and that is a first for us at the end of our week long stay on Kauai. No other restaurants on Kauai did the same. Overall, we were quite pleased with our experience.

    (4)

  • Peter B.

    The concierge at the Sheraton said "don't go there". We did anyway. Less expensive than the "recommended" restaurants, and the service was very attentive and friendly. The food was good too. We split the romaine salad and the opah with vegetables. Both were very good. Maybe less romantic, being that it's basically a sports bar, but a good value.

    (5)

  • L B.

    All I can is they need a Gordon Ramsey makeover ASAP! Really disappointing.

    (1)

  • Charles F.

    We went there for a late lunch and enjoyed the ahi sandwich . The food and service were excellent and we even met the owner Bob who gave us some history of the place.

    (5)

  • Joey S.

    Decent but VERY touristy place [price and foodwise]. This place's happy hour prices are pretty mediocre (in fact, they don't change prices at all, they just write "Happy Hour" and use the same prices - somebody please tell them the rules about this). I would hit the 5 minute walk to Kalapaki Joe's for their happy hour wings and beer selection. But, if you are on the beach and feeling lazy this is your only option.

    (3)

  • Tara H.

    Great team that Bob is running here; delicious food, amazing customer service and a great vacation vibe with a twist of paradise thrown in! Highly recommend. We went back twice in 1 week! Love the ahi tacos :)

    (5)

  • Cathy L.

    Good restaurant, friendly service, very nice view of the ocean and open windows so the breeze comes right in...

    (3)

  • Tom L.

    Food is just OK. "World Famous Mai Tai" was disappointing. The service was terrible, The fries were served cold - they gave us another order - it was also delivered cold. I ordered my cheeseburger medium rare - it was well done. There are better places in the area. The atmosphere and view are nice.

    (2)

  • David A.

    Mmm... Brennecke's. Another of our spots we stop at every time we come to Kauai. Great drinks, great food, great view, great service. Very chill spot. Standard pub-style menu with a beach twist. Excellent drink menu. Nice atmosphere.

    (4)

  • Paul N.

    Great place to watch waves during happy hour. Excellent food and friendly staff. Get there early if you want the prime rib.

    (4)

  • Heather L.

    This is a good place to go with the family, watch the sunset while you have dinner. Friendly staff, food has been good every time we have been there. really good fries.

    (4)

  • Alison M.

    The atmosphere is not worth the price of the food. But the food was good and view is great. It's not a cheap restaurant but nowhere on the island is. Wait staff was helpful and friendly. Not a romantic atmosphere but the sunset makes it worth it.

    (4)

  • Ben C.

    Nice view of poipu beach. Food is decent and service was friendly. Worth checking out for lunch or a late night snack if staying nearby.

    (3)

  • Louis T.

    My girfriend and I love Brennecke's - perfect location right on the beach, consistently good food, casual atmosphere, great service, and they do gluten-free dishes! We enjoy stopping by right after snorkeling at nearby Poipu beach. Yesterday, we did take-out - she had the charbroiled (not blackened) opah with grilled vegetables and I had the fish and chips, both were delicious! I especially liked the fact that the fish was flavorful and not at all greasy. Today we had lunch (scored a corner seat on the balcony) - she had the charbroiled mahi mahi on mixed greens with grilled eggplant and goat cheese, and I had the chicken breast sandwich - both were delicious and our server Rebecca was friendly and efficient. Yes, Brennecke's is pricey (as is Kauai) but in our opinion the food, location and service are worth it. If Brennecke's offered the main fish entrees during lunch then we'd rate it as 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Leia K.

    Convenient, friendly, and fun . . but pretty standard pub food and over priced and greasy for the quality. My Kauai trip continues to prove there is not a high standard of food on this island. Or maybe there isn't a demand for a higher standard of food from the tourists, unfortunately. Hey, I adore Kauai, but I didn't come here for the grub.

    (2)

  • Dan A.

    Great bar with a great view. We went there for a single drink and ended up staying much later then we expected and got some good appetizers. I loved the atmosphere and would return any day. I loved all the sports memorabilia, maybe because there was a lot of Boston sports moments there for us to feel back at home.

    (5)

  • Charles P.

    Honestly good for if you want to go and get some beers and have bar food. They have way more then bar food, but I wouldn't go past burgers and fries. Their prices are up there with high end places. Its convenient if your in the Poipu area and need to eat, but not for a nice night out. Thats the kind of prices they get you with nice romantic dinner prices. No much rather go somewhere else.

    (2)

  • Van D.

    Went here for dinner with my family. Place has a great view of the beach and ocean, and we got to enjoy a great sunset. Entrees were good sized and food was above average. Entree prices were in the $20-30 range. Nice casual atmosphere. View and atmosphere get 4 stars. Food 3.5 stars. Good place to relax, enjoy the great view, and enjoy a solid meal.

    (4)

  • Jason H.

    Service was poor, Mai tai was weak, and the view was great but better from the park across the street. Bring your beverage in a brown paper bag and go to the park. Also, only way in is thru narrow steep stairs so this with mobility issues will find this difficult to navigate.

    (2)

  • Lou S.

    This was a great place just down the road from our hotel. The wait staff was really nice and the food was really really good. The two things I would definitely recommend are the pulled pork nachos and the fish and chips when it's made with ono. The fish was amazing, the best fish in fish and chip form I've ever had. The pulled pork nachos were great, my wife and I just had those one evening. During happy hour (3-5), they are dirt cheap ($5), so hit them up then, grab some mai tais and just relax.

    (5)

  • Mike W.

    I would've given it 5 stars if the food had been exceptional. A new menu and the food was very good this time so I'm not sure why the bad reviews the past couple years. I recommend giving another try

    (4)

  • Leah F.

    While on our vacation in Kauai we drove and ate at Brennecke's 5 TIMES!! The staff and view are awesome. The prices are reasonable and the food is good.

    (4)

  • Chris F.

    We hit this place up on St Paddy's Day. Had a great time chillin on the 2nd floor lookin out the open wall at the beach, drinkin some beers, eatin some ahi taco or something. Mega-friendly staff, too.

    (4)

  • Frank M.

    Awesome setting/view. The food was very good. Fish and chips are great. Pork sandwich is great. Lava cake superb. Service was wonderful.

    (5)

  • Kristin W.

    If you are trying to please the kids, its ok, but this place is mediocre at best for adults. Incredibly overpriced for what you get. I'd put this place on par with Applebee's in terms of quality buy wayyyyyy more expensive. Nachos were $12, fish dishes were $25-29 per entree. No way would I go back here.

    (2)

  • Alesha E.

    Man, did we hit this place just right! We were enjoying the beach this morning and were getting hungry. Started packing up our stuff as the clouds started to move in. By the time we hit Brennecke's, it was a full on thunder storm! I truly wasn't expecting much, figuring their location (AMAZING) was how they make their bank. I was wrong. Service was very friendly, and on Kauai time, which we didn't mind at all, having a front row seat for the storm. I have the lemon crusted ahi salad - super yum! Light and tasty and the fish was fresh. My picky daughter macked her chicken nuggets right up, and loved the fruit smoothie. Our group also had the fish & chips, phlly cheese steak, and the crab melt . . . all thumbs up. Don't let the kitsch fool you - it was good food.

    (4)

  • Adriana K.

    Ok - everyone mentions Brennecke's and it's well advertised. It's upstairs, crowded, window view (from across the street) of the Poipu beach and sunset. I got some great pictures through the window - cropped out the telephone poles. The food was adequate. I don't remember what I had - a hamburger I think. The drink didn't impress me and cost a lot. I'd had better. My guy hated it there. Was complaining about the service wait times and the cost for what we got for days after. For the rest of the trip he's all... we could have eaten here three times for what we paid at Brenneckes. OK OK I get it - we won't go back. But, it really was ok - just not special. I asked some people who left how they liked it and they said they ate there every day on the trip - so to each their own. My best advice is to grab something quick, take it to the beach, and watch the sunset from there :) I think their happy hour would be good - ends before sunset any way.

    (3)

  • Rachel A.

    My folks were watching the sunset and watched my sleeping baby. My bf and I ran across the street for a quick drink and appetizer, but appetizers were limited. So we decided to share a prime rib sandwich which the waiter said would be quick. Service was slow to bring us new drinks, and I forgot to ask for a side of ranch - so I did. By the time he brought the ranch, I noticed my parents walking across the street and told him we need to cash out. Everything just seemed to take a long time. We were there during what seemed like peak time, but we were in the bar - and a lot of people there are relaxing and enjoying a good meal. Plus, I noted that we were meeting up with people at the beginning, and didn't expect to be shoveling the last few bites and giving myself brain freeze trying to finish my lava flow. The prime rib sandwich and drinks were delicious - although the meat was fatty.

    (3)

  • Vicky T.

    Meh... not a place I would recommend. I would actually go to the deli and get some treats

    (2)

  • Lisa K.

    Our second time in Kauai and we returned to brenneckes remembering it was one of our favorites, and we were not disappointed. The service is phenomenal, (one gentleman in particular, hawaiian, begins with a K?), very willing to stop and chat and extremely knowledgable. If you come here do yourself a favor and wait for a window seat. Right around sunset, tradewinds blowing, ocean waves crashing and the AMAZING ahi!! My husband tried Ono for the first time at waiters recommendation and was blown away. (he isn't a fish guy either) Brenneckes is a bit pricey, like most things on Kauai, and watch out for one very aggressive saleswoman downstairs where they sell activities. I couldn't escape her!! The next few times we ate there I ran right past her and avoided eye contact!!! There are alot of resteraunts in Kauai, and to choose may be a task in itself, Brenneckes however, is a must go!

    (4)

  • Ruby L.

    Giving it five stars because you can order whatever you want. Burgers, pupus, a full dinner. We eat there at least a couple times each trip and can never remember a bad meal. Some better than others but all pretty darn good. And the view is wonderful. Sometimes the sunset breaks out just as you begin your meal. Service is good, mai tais strong. Just feels like Hawaii! Doesn't get any better than that!

    (5)

  • Emad S.

    Good selection. Pricy for what u get. I had the seared Ahi it was over cooked and very rubbery. I think u can get better quality meal some where else. Nice view of the sunset though!

    (2)

  • Ken S.

    The food is below average, drinks just okay & we (there were 6 of us) found the waitress to be annoying. Apparently there is an added tip for larger parties, I would have never tipped her the $40 + for her service. There are much better options in Kauai.

    (1)

  • Michael J.

    Not worth it. Over priced with very poor food quality. We made a reservation and when we arrived were told we had to wait about 15min for a nice view. When they sat us, they stuck us in the corner looking directly at some very large and very ugly telephone poles and wires. Maybe if I stood on a chair and hung out the window I could see over the lines and the bushes. The prime rib was very dry and the shrimp was undercooked and bland. My husband had fish which was also dry. I would expect more for $30 a plate. On the upside our server was excellent and the dessert was not bad.

    (2)

  • john h.

    I enjoyed my Mahi salad. The fish was fresh, light, and tasty. My wife had the burger and she said it was just OK.

    (3)

  • steve b.

    Gross, rubbery lobster, a few stars below red lobster or frozen food. Tourist trap of the worst kind. View and location is the only reason for a star.

    (1)

  • Mike P.

    Loved it. Soon as we sat down upstairs a waitress asked if I wanted the extra mango colada the barman had passed her. Free. Plop. Start drinking. (Note: your drinking conditions nay vary!) Great view. Easygoing casual friendly Svc. Prices worth the experience. Going back again.

    (4)

  • Pete S.

    Good view, mediocre food, staff had bad attitude, but we were there on a busy night. Still, the staff snippiness happened not once but three times.

    (2)

  • Martha K.

    You're not going to a fancy restaurant here, you're going to a beach grill. With that said, we went with two kids right after sunset at Poipu (yes, right when EVERYONE was arriving). We were told that there would be a 45 minute wait, but were seated less than 10 minutes later by the owner who said he didn't want to make our children suffer through a big wait. (No, they weren't being obnoxious, he was just being nice!) We had a surprisingly good meal (OMG crab legs with drawn butter), a great waiter, and enjoyed our dinner a lot more than we expected to.

    (4)

  • Jeffery Y.

    Cool place, love the vibe. Could be a little faster on food but overall great!

    (5)

  • Mike B.

    Great spot for happy hour, across the street from the beach. Friendly staff, and good food too. Recommend the Opah...not Oprah.

    (4)

  • Jennifere D.

    Great food & great staff. Very accommodating for our children, which was nice. Got the sampler appetizer plate and Ono for the entree, both were outstanding. My advice, let the staff guide you on the menu. They know the local specialties and is they way to go since some of the seafood is imported. We wanted fresh and local seafood, this is the place to go.

    (5)

  • David B.

    Several guide books recommended Brennecke's as a must for dinner, so we went. The food was good, but I'm not sure I'd cateorize it as a must. Brennecke's reminded us of one of those road side tourist restaurants on Cape Cod. Colorful, lots of fish memorabilia, you get the picture. When you walk in to their first floor entrance you are bombarded by their discount activities desk and tacky gift shop. Not exactly what we expected. The hostess was very nice, apologizing genuinely for our two minutes wait for a table when we didn't even have a reservation. Our table, right at the window, was a highlight with a lovely view of Poipu Beach. Brennecke's slogan is, "Right on the beach, right on the price." Neither statement is correct. They are located about a block from the water, although their view is basically unrestricted. Their prices seem very high, even here in Hawaii. Their Mai Tais are supposed to be world renowned, but I found them to have more sweetness and less rum than most I've tried. As for the food, my wife had a salad of romaine, bleu cheese and pears. She liked it, but the half size wasn't quite a dinner portion. I had the special of the evening, a macadamia nut encrusted mahi mahi. The fish was fresh and very tasty, but could have used a bit more macadamia nuts. The highlight of the evening was the apple tart topped with Lappert's vanilla bean ice cream. A wonderful dessert that we highly recommend. Upon reflection, the food was good, but the prices, discount activity pitch, and kitschy atmosphere probably won't bring us back on our next trip.

    (3)

  • Amanda S.

    The food was bad, but the drinks and the setting and view was GREAT!!! 2nd floor, porch like looking at the water.

    (3)

  • Mike C.

    The food was the best that we could find in Poipu area, ended up coming here 6 out of 7 days that we were in Poipu. The spicy mussels are excellent. Also happy hour pricing is good, and they definitely don't skimp on alcohol.

    (4)

  • Mike M.

    This place is an institution in Poipu. Went there 12 years ago, even after the hurricane in 1992. Food is decent, view is good, service is friendly. You pay for the view, but the food is good enough

    (3)

  • W S.

    The food was decent - the beer was better but the view was great. After dinner we walked across the street to the beach and witnessed an incredible sunset.

    (4)

  • Eric G.

    Brennecke's was a good lunch spot for us. Sure it's a little pricey. And the drinks are heavily watered down. But the fish and chips were perfect -- fresh, well cooked, and they give you too many so you won't leave hungry. Our server was super perky (she might be the only friendly resident of the entire island.) I probably don't need to tell you this, but there's a great beach right outside which is a popular sunbathing and snorkeling spot.

    (4)

  • susan s.

    Don't be fooled by the ads! Granted we came at night (so couldn't see the view) but inside this place lacks ambience of any kind except feeling like you're eating in a bar. Service was terrible, they charge for every little thing, the drinks were either watered down or tasted bad - we were VERY disappointed considering for this much money we could have eaten at Roys or Keoki's or Plantation or just about anywhere else....wow.

    (1)

  • Janet D.

    For some reason, when I go to Kauai for my rejuvenation trips, I have an aversion to traditional dining out...it reminds me too much of home and I just eat less in paradise. I love getting take-out and heading to the beach to eat while watching the sunset. You just can't get a better seat in any restaurant on the island! So, it was take-out from Brennecke's...and it was good! Delicious Caeser salad, pretty good (a tad dry) chicken skewers, and heavenly seared ahi. I'll definitely be back here to complement future sunsets...

    (4)

  • Kathleen B.

    Again, delicious prime rib here, with a great view of Poipu beach. The lava flow was good here too.

    (4)

  • Derek M.

    Great beachside restaurant. The pork nachos were awesome and the fish tacos are the best on Kauai in our opinion... So good that we went there twice during our vacation. Excellent service and great location right on Poipu beach. We will definitely return.

    (4)

  • Craig G.

    Location, Location, Location. Right across from Poipu beach. If you are on the beach and you want a drink, snack, lunch, whatever - and you don't want to go far or brush the sand off, then this place is perfect. The food is what you would expect in a beach-front greasy spoon. Keep your expectations low and don't order anything too daring. It was perfect for me for lunch after surfing at Poipu all morning. I was tired, hungry, and dehydrated. A burger and a beer (and a glass of water) hit the spot, and they didn't care that my suit was still wet.

    (2)

  • Cathy L.

    Our server was quite funny and his wife takes beautiful photos which were posted near our dining area. We still stuck with our diet of app and entrée so we had the calamari, pupu platter (kings crab legs, ahi tuna, smoked fish, cevechi, steamed fish, and shrimp), We also shared a ginger macadamia crusted ono which was really tasty. Perfectly cooked. Loved the open air dining and veiw of Poipu Beach and the sunset from this venue.

    (5)

  • Lisa M.

    Shoots! We missed happy hour by 5 minutes, but scored a great table and stayed for dinner and sunset views. The ahi appetizer and stuffed mushroom appetizer were very good. Wasabi ono was really tasty, good sauce, fresh fish. Pleasantly surprised to see an arugula/goatcheese salad on the menu, it was really good. Nice sized portion of 1/2 size. Drinks reasonably priced. Nice service. Perfect location for an after dinner walk on the beach.

    (4)

  • Don D.

    LOVE Brennecke's!!! Fish and meat is cooked and seasoned perfectly. We will be back every chance we get.

    (5)

  • Adam V.

    Great location, fun staff, excellent bar tending.

    (5)

  • Brian A.

    Just stopped in for a snack and dessert, but were happy. The green salad had local greens and a tasty vinaigrette. The mocha ice cream pie was generously portioned and excellent. Beer selection limited, but the mai tai solid, and the brown nipple with banana amazing. Staff were friendly and mostly attentive.

    (4)

  • Pops F.

    Someone wrote that they had a good Mai Tai. You'll need one if you come here on a busy night, and at least the night we came they were weak and with too much ice. This place is in a nice spot, but you'd be better off buying a sandwich and a couple beers (for the price) from their deli downstairs and walking across the street to enjoy the view from the public park at the beach (and you can drink in the park that rings the beach). First, everyone comes for the sunset, and they don't have a lot of space to stand (the restaurant is on the second floor). So about 30 people will crowd into a small area near the bar waiting for the sunset-watchers to finish so they can take their seats. They all leave at about the same time, so then all the newcomers sit down and overwhelm the wait staff, bar and kitchen. The food is a sub-ar version of a Bubba Gump-style place. Their Hawaiian Pupu platter had Ahi (OK), 2 thawed shrimp that looked like what I buy at Costco, smoked local fish (also OK), King Crab (???), and fish salad that was tasty. Kids meals were about $7 and OK but lower quality than you'd get at a CPK. Stay away from their fried food - the food came out looking like the oil was about a month old. View gets 4 stars. Why? Cuz this is Poipu, and EVERY restaurant on the beach has a breathtaking view. Unlike its more upscale competitors that sit in the hotels or right on the water, Brennecke's looks across the road and through some picnic pagodas and restrooms before you get to the beach. By Detroit standards, this is the best view you've ever seen. By Poipu standards, nice but you'll find a lot better. And given that it would be hard not to have better food and better service, why not just avoid the place, period?

    (2)

  • Stacy L.

    During our Kauai Labor Day getaway trip, we saw Brennecke's advertised in a kauai coupon book and figured we would give it a go. The staff was friendly, and we were seated quickly because we weren't picky about having a window seat, however most tables also have a great view of the window so we were happy either way. Unfortunately we weren't happy with the menu. The variety isn't great, and the prices are very pricey.. when we looked this up on yelp, there is only one $ sign. =( We wanted more variety and a cheaper selection. (*The happy hour menu looked really good, and there were good prices, but happy hour started at 8, and it was only 7:30 and we were starving). The server was nice, and helpful, but they had just changed the menu and he hadn't had a chance to try everything yet. We actually told our server that we would be going back to our resort to eat. But on the way back, we did pass by Kalapaki Joes, and gave it a try, VERY GOOD and a lot more affordable than Brennecke's. I'm sure had we been there for happy hour, we would've stayed. Will go for the happy hour on my next trip =)

    (3)

  • Rebecca L.

    Great view. Fun ambiance. Drinks are pretty expensive (even happy hour was so so - and we're from the Bay Area, we're used to paying through the nose) and not so good. Food was okay.

    (3)

  • B W.

    Food is amazing. Staff is great. Views are fantastic.

    (5)

  • Jen S.

    I had dinner at Brennecke's last week while on Kauai. This was my least favorite dinner (out of 7) but it was one of the most expensive ones. Our drinks, I'll admit, were well prepared. Our dinner was a disappointment. First, the salad bar was sad... very few ingredients (go to Duke's for the best salad bar) and the lettuce was warm. My fiance ordered a steak, which was served smothered in mushy mushrooms and not particularly well prepared (not a good sign when the server asks if you want A-1 sauce). I ordered a fish combo with mahi-mahi and shrimp. The mahi-mahi wasn't bad but the shrimp was barely edible - kind of slimy with strange seasoning. I would not return to Brennecke's for dinner. From the sound of the reviews, it is a decent place for lunch, but try something else for dinner. The prices are way out of line considering the quality, ambience (no ambience to speak of) and location.

    (2)

  • D G.

    Very convenient stop after a day at the beach. We had their happy hour drinks and the nachos with kalua pork and we enjoyed it a lot. Our server was very friendly. Definitely touristy but it's not a tourist trap by any means. Their prices were not bad at all. I would go back.

    (4)

  • Cruz R.

    This used to be one of the best places to eat for the food and ocean views. Over the years though, the food quality as slowly gone down. It is now to the point that the view is not worth the visit anymore. In the past we decided that dinners we're out & now lunches will be limited to the burgers, ahi wrap & clam chowder. We had cerviche and fish & chips today. It was the worst food we have had in Hawaii since coming here the last 25 years. Really sad that the owner's have decided that customers are not a priority. We have decided that for casual dining that it will now be Kalapaki Joe's.

    (2)

  • kahau m.

    ate here several weeks ago with a special someone. it was good. not great but good. sun was shining, nice views of the ocean. had maitais and the special which was an ahi wrap. it was ok. drinks were good. company was better! service was a little confused. started with one server who seemed to be ending his shift and moved us to somebody else's section who was a little flustered. whatevas. might go back if in the area.... then again might not and might try another establishment!!! not sure about "right on the beach" its more like "right across the street, over the wall, across the grass, then you on the beach!"

    (3)

  • Melissa S.

    Let me start off with the good: Brennecke's did indeed have a lovely beach front view with palm trees waving in the breeze and all. Nice. The dishes were fairly good but standard (fish, seafood, ribs, burgers). They also had a nice salad bar with interesting fixings (i.e. kimchi & taro dinner rolls) but on the whole our 6 person meal was waaaaay overpriced considering their tagline, "Right on the Beach, Right on the Price." Aside from the spectacular views, it was like eating at Applebees - eatin' good in just another neighborhood.

    (3)

  • Pinot Squirrel S.

    Yes, please read the reviews on this restaurant. Total tourist trap. Now, I can appreciate a tourist trap that actually tries....this location does NOT. We ordered a beer from an overly friendly server who tried to be interested in my birthday celebration (note: tried). The server was more interested in the other tables of families. It was almost comical as she was entertaining everybody else. This is ok but ONLY if you bring my beer after I order it....not 15 minutes later. The food quality was under par. We ordered the fish tacos. I love that the tacos were grilled. unfortunately, the lettuce, tomato and cheese had no flavor. I am not even sure if the fish was Ahi. I honestly believe it was Skip Jack. Oh, and the server never came back to check on us. When we asked for our check....we had to get change from the bartender. Go somewhere else unless you appreciate bad service and bland food.

    (1)

  • Sue S.

    They have the most incredible fish, I recently had the Opah with a cilantro jasmine rice and was so good I couldn't get enough!

    (5)

  • Jack W.

    The sashimi, pasta, clams, and shrimp were all very mediocre. One a Dollar per unit of quality basis, it's actually quite expensive. One standout - the brown nipples cocktail. Definitely one of the best I've had in life. Price: $50/person after tax and tip.

    (3)

  • Ravena F.

    Tired of Las Vegas cocktails (e.g. very little alcohol, overly sweet mixers) all over Poipu beach area, Brennecke's was a welcome find. Yay! Real alcohol in the drinks! These were some nice Mai Tais and Pina Coladas here. We stopped in here several times for a cool drink on a warm afternoon (daily happy hour 3-5). The clientele seems to be slightly less tourist dominant, with a few genuine regulars showing up. The wait-staff are friendly, food is good (I especially like the fish). But the ambiance is where it's at: breezy comfortable wooden rooms, with a ship-like quality. Simply relaxing.

    (3)

  • Noel W.

    The staff were friendly and considerate, however we didn't find the food to be good at all and it was very overpriced. It is a beach side restaurant with a bar, but was priced like a fine dining restaurant. Found much better choices in the area for the same price. I would recommend if you are just looking for a decent bar, but not food.

    (1)

  • Sophie H.

    Brennecke's makes it's money off the popularity of Poipu Beach Park and so obviously doesn't need to try very hard or even seem to care about providing quality. We ordered the pupu platter and it came out in about 2 minutes (red flag) and had obviously been prepared the day before and refrigerated so that it had no flavor at all and everything was dry, chewy, and greyish. Add that the prices are outrageous ($17.95 for fish tacos?!?!) and you won't se me eating there again.... The only redeeming qualities are the tasty mai tais and the friendly staff.

    (2)

  • Debi C.

    3 stars for food and service, 5 for view. $ 22.50 for fish and chips that were just ok....I had the Nachos with pork and again...way overpriced and not very tasty. Drinks were good, I would recommend the Lava Flow....YUM YUM. I could have sucked down 5 of them!!!! I would go back for the sunsets and cocktails. And they do have good happy hour deals

    (3)

  • Anthony S.

    We had the fish n chips and were quite disappointed. The breading was too heavy. By the time we picked most of the breaking off there wasn't much left.

    (2)

  • Matt K.

    Overpriced and crowded - basically relies on the proximity to Po'ipu beach for business. If you need somewhere within walking distance of Po'ipu Beach Park, this is one of your only options, but I would drive somewhere if I had to do it again...

    (2)

  • Ji-Hae K.

    We asked for a window table and waited for a while for it. After 30 mins, what we got was a window table at the back corner facing their parking lot. They didn't even ask if that would be ok with us. Cocktails were mediocre. Food is expensive for what it is. Expected at a tourist trap.

    (1)

  • Russell G.

    Good food and great location. Good ahi tuna and good drink selection. Happy hour should be later than 5pm.

    (4)

  • Robin H.

    Great views at this Poipou beach restaurant. My husband & I had salads that were fresh & tasty. Just across the street from a nice beach for everyone. They also have a deli downstairs with delicious brownies & cookies

    (4)

  • Laurie F.

    The view and atmosphere is awesome here! We had fish salads --both absolutely delicious! Would definitely recommends this place! Very good beer selection as well.

    (4)

  • Kristy S.

    I would give them a 2.5, but, not possible with the rating system, so a 2 it is. Our server was super nice - a little slow on refilling the tea and club soda, but ultra friendly. Two of us shared the PuPu platter, which was had great elements and not so great elements - the ceviche, raw shrimp and the smoked fish, but the crab leg was really watery and the tuna was "meh". Pork sandwich was good as were the tasty, tempura-like fries. I thought it was a little over-sauced, but you could always ask for that on the side. The ahi tacos - were a 2. The tuna was perfect, but everything it came with was straight from Costco (pre-made guac, bad shredded cheese (and TOO much of it), beans & rice (and the B+R were cool - not hot or even warm). One major downer - club soda $2.50, and $0.50 for each refill? You gotta be kiddin' me? Total for two, Pupu Platter and 2 lunches, 2 drinks (ice tea and club soda) - $60 (no dessert and no cocktails). STICK TO KEOKI'S LIKE WE SHOULD HAVE!

    (2)

  • Kelli H.

    Maybe okay for lunch but for dinner...not so much! Seemed pretty dirty, and a waitress spilled a drink on two people in our group. She didn't even really apologize. I had the ahi sandwich. I was told it would be pretty rare, which I was looking forward to. When it came out, it was completely over-cooked. Like tuna from a can! No pink anywhere in sight. :( Two people in our group got burgers and liked them. It's just not really my type of place.

    (2)

  • L N.

    Great location. Fish and chips where disappointing. Cocktails where good.

    (3)

  • Marcy G.

    This is my first Yelp review because I was so impressed with the staff at Brennecke's. I had been spending all day at Poipu beach in the sun without having a big breakfast (dumb on my part), and I experiences a bit of a heat stroke right outside their front door. I walked up the steps with a bright red face and short breaths to the kindest woman who took me in right away, gave me a cold towel, a glass of ice water, crackers, orange juice, and made sure i got fresh air on the balcony, all while the restaurant was looking pretty busy. Seriously, they saved me from passing out, and were so understanding and kind the whole time. So, I unfortunately didn't get to try the food at Brennecke's, but I give their staff 5 giant stars! I will be back next year in better health :)

    (5)

  • Tyson G.

    Good location at popular beach in Poipu. Staff is friendly. Food was average.

    (2)

  • Chad L.

    There are many wonderful things I could say about this business, but I think what impresses me most is the people. Every time I have been there, they have been welcoming and kind, and have demonstrated the kind of hospitality that every restaurant should strive for. In my experience, the wait for a table has never been very long, and the service is prompt. It is nice to have a place to go right by the beach in case I get hungry afterwards or just want to pull into the bar for a cocktail and pupus before going back out. The seafood is very fresh, and the flavors they use to compliment it are always enjoyable. One of the dinner options is to enjoy two kinds of fresh fish. When I had it, there were two different sauces, and each was amazing. I love how the mussels are prepared on the appetizer menu- the broth is so good I could almost just drink it, but I refrain from embarrassing myself like that by dipping in some of the yummy French bread toast points instead. I also went in for lunch one day and had the lemon crusted ahi and mixed green salad. It was phenomenal, if a tad overcooked for my liking (Of course, I like the fish best raw, and even though I say it was overcooked, it was still only about medium rare, and still very tender, moist, and flavorful. I think they may cook it a tad more because the majority of their customers are tourists. And, when I specified temperature in the past they did do it to order. AND, they do have raw ahi tartare and sashimi, I think, on their pupus menu.) Anyways, the picture that is posted of the salad on this site is the one I ate. I just had no time to text in anything about it, I got busy eating. Go in early or late in the evening for their happy hour specials. I usually have a mai tai or three, and they have a great list of virgin cocktails. My five year old son, who is usually accustomed to ordering the ever popular Shirley Temple at a restaurant, really liked it when I surprised him with something different and colorful. They have a great tee shirt shop downstairs with a wide selection of really nice shirts, and they have a deli too- I usually order a Hoku's Hero sandwich. They have one of those cards you can have stamped every time you go to get a free one after ten or however many, useful if you go here a lot. There is also a kama aina discount in the restaurant, gift shop, and deli if you live in Hawaii. They have a rental store next door too, but I haven't been in there yet.

    (5)

  • Jenna R.

    I was also a little unsure about trying this place because of numerous negative comments but it was New Year's Eve and we needed to keep our parking spot to see the fireworks on the beach at night! I'm glad we tried this place! I enjoyed a fantastic mahi mahi with shrimp in a brandy lobster sauce, scalloped potatoes, and some veggies. The mahi was cooked to perfection! My fiance ordered the prime rib medium rare and thought it was okay but nothing special. I also enjoyed a nice latte and chocolate mousse in its own chocolate cup for dessert. All in all a very nice meal for me, the fish lover! Not as fantastic for the meat lover it seems. There's a nice view of the ocean and you can enjoy a beautiful sunset. :)

    (4)

  • Gavin M.

    This has been my third trip back to Brennecke's and as before, the food was wonderful. I have eaten here with and without reservations, and have never had more than a 30 minute wait. Each time back, more than one of the staff recognized me or a member of our party, even though it had been a year since our last visit. This trip, we were fortunate to have a young waitress by the name of Chelsea (sp?). Her memory, her attitude, and her service were all top notch. With staff like this, Brennecke's will have return business for years to come!!

    (4)

  • Melissa D.

    We stopped here after a long drive to and from a heavily rained out North Shore. Fortunately for us, Poipu Beach was sunny and beautiful. Brennecke's is very conveniently located along the beach with few parking lots near it. The restaurant overlooks the beach and the view is fantastic. The atmosphere is definitely beachy cool. We made it during the happy hour and ordered nachos as an appetizer. They were pretty good, with the exception of the Pace picante sauce on the said that they tried to pass off as salsa (I am from South-Central TX, so I'll let it slide but will silently judge). In addition, I had an ahi tuna sandwich that was alright, nothing remarkable. Brennecke's is a nice spot to grab lunch or dinner if you happen to be nearby.

    (3)

  • Mike S.

    Excellent food, service, and entertainment!

    (5)

  • Benjamin K.

    Enjoyed some great local Koloa rum and a Mahi Mahi sandwich with fries. Great food, but not for the price unfortunately.

    (3)

  • George F.

    Ok food. Overpriced. Had the ono fish and chips, ok fish way too much breading. Mai tai was decent. Go to Joes.

    (2)

  • Jamie C.

    This was our favorite restaurant on the island! The drive from our condo was about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, but it was worth it! Located in beautiful Poipu right near beach with great views. I had the Ono fish and chips each time because it was that good! Clam chowder was also excellent. Wait staff was friendly and attentive.

    (5)

  • Marian M.

    Our family had two meals at Brenneke's Beach Broiler during our recent trip to Kauai. Both were very satisfactory and exceeded expectations, based on some of the Yelp and guidebook reviews we'd seen. The first, lunch at about 11 am after morning snorkeling, featured excellent fish tacos, a very nice broiled shrimp salad, and an eggplant/goat cheese salad. The freshness of the ingredients was outstanding and the preparation very nice. The meal was very pricey, however, even by Kauai standards, especially for lunch. The dinner last night was even better, and felt like a good value especially since we gotta view a beautiful sunset, showers, and a rainbow while we ate. featured meals included a two fish duo of opah and Ono; a lovely ahi on mushroom ravioli with light pesto sauce, and ribs. Chowder and island salad were great starters. The nachos, which one of my sons ordered, were less of a hit. He said all the components were fine, but the kalua pork and sauce just didn't quite "work" w jalapeños and salsa. Service was very good --immediately seated for 6:30 reservation. Wait staff a little too talkative but efficient. Anyhow, highly recommended, and only the extra $5 tacked onto each lunch entree stands in way of 5 stars in my book.

    (4)

  • Michelle S.

    Loved the open air dining. Service was excellent.

    (5)

  • Ryan M.

    Mango mama with pure Koloa dark rum is heaven and I don't even like rum! Seared ahi encrusted with sesame seeds was top notch and I've had the best there is in Los Angeles! Eggplant goat cheese salad was light and tasty! Ono fish and chips were too damn good! Kudos to the bar tender for recommending the mango mama! Everyone was friendly. Couldnt have been better!

    (5)

  • Karen T.

    We came here from the airport. We had dinner reservations in a few hours, but needed to eat something that didn't come thru a drive thru. We ordered their pupu platter and discovered smoked marlin, amazing raw tuna, and decent ceviche. I had a great mai tai. He had local beer. I have to say, with the warm breezes off the water from the beach across the street and the open air atmosphere and the GREAT snack, we were sold. What a great way to start the vacation. Casually.

    (4)

  • Liv R.

    I've been to Brennecke's several times. My favorite is the King Crab Melt... ohhhhh soooooo good!!! Large chunks of King Crab on a toasted french roll. A total must have! The phily cheese steak sandwich was rather blah... needs more flavor, skip this one. The clam chowder was very buttery and pretty good.The service is okay. The one waitress we had (haole) wasn't very nice. We also ordered 3 Lava Flow's and when they came the strawberry was liquidy on the bottom and foam on the top. We had to return it and got a fresh batch. It looked as if she gave us some Lava flows that have been sitting there for awhile. I had the brown nipple - oh ma gah - so yummy, like ice cream!!! Pricey but only to be expected from a place right off the beach. Very casual. Sandy feet are accepted! I'd give the food a 4 stars and the service a 3 star.

    (4)

  • Steve C.

    Very good food and service, we are dinner there. The ribs were excellent and the fish was great too.

    (4)

  • Knomies N.

    Had a great experience at Brennecke's in 2009. Was back this month looking forward to another great experience and was very disappointed. No more yummy bread, no amazing salad bar, and now very pushy service. Too many things have changed in the wrong direction for me to want to go back. Not interested in dining here again.

    (1)

  • Roopa B.

    Great food and very personalized service. My friend and I went there for dinner while we were in Kauai and the staff at Brennecke's made us feel like they knew us personally. I will definitely go back there if I went back to Kauai again!!

    (4)

  • Chris N.

    Affordable meals for lunch, the food was decent but the drinks were pricey so we skipped. Me and my wife thought that the service was a little sluggish probably because we weren't getting any drinks.

    (3)

  • Pam M.

    Great location. Food is ok, not great. If you are in Poipu beach area you have to try it at least once. Friendly service. Avoid the cocktails and stick to beer. They have maybe the worst cocktails I have ever had, and the weakest. You won't get drunk here.

    (3)

  • Patrice G.

    Appetizer Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms $13,95 Entrees Rib-Eye/ Fresh Fish Combo $37.95 Prime Rib/King Crab Combo $34.50 I need to explain a few things up front just as I did to our server: I have a surgically reduced stomach and am not able to eat most red meat. In fact I can only reliably eat the little strip of meat that sits above the fat around the main portion of a rib-eye steak or prime rib. Lots of places now remove that part so I was very explicit in asking if it was attached since the Prime Rib and King Crab combo was $34,50. Our waiter informed me that since it was so early (almost 5pm) getting a good piece should be easy. The appetizer was AMAZING. It was, without a doubt, the BEST stuffed mushrooms I'd ever had. The garlic herb butter served on the was wonderful. I had high hopes. The prime rib came out a strange shade of gray an extremely small pice of meat above the fat cap. There were none of the herbs you would expect to see on a prime rib. There was not even salt and pepper. It was tough and tasteless. It goes down in my food history as the worst piece of meat I have ever had. My husband's steak looked much before but the taste was still HORRIBLE. I only had one bite of the prime rib. I thought maybe my taste buds were off because my husband at a good portion of his steak. I should have known when he offered A-1 to us and never asked how the food was as he did 3 times during the appetizer, Total cost was $90 for a great appetizer, 2 waters and the worst meat EVER. I've had better prime rib at a Circus Circus brunch. Our waiter was very personable. The kept the water glasses full and offered menu suggestions. The star is for him and the appetizer. If you want a good prime rib at a reasonable price try Wahoo's in Kapa'a, If you want the ocean view I'd consider another reviewer's suggestion that you pick up a taco or sandwich and snag a picnic table on the beach.

    (1)

  • John F.

    Great happy hour! The coconut shrimp was incredible and the mai tai loaded. Only place we went back for another round. I'm sure the view is great when the weather is cooperative. We sat by the window and watched epic rains pummel the beach. For a couple days. There's definitely something going on with their coconut shrimp. While other restaurants are just rolling in shreds, their recipe has something magical in it. Lots of coconut flavors with every bite. The best trick was to take the smallest bite to make the flavors last.

    (4)

  • Barbara B.

    Frommer's said that this place has the best burgers. No argument here, my burger was delicious. My husband and I had a chocolate lava cake for dessert and it was delectable. Great food, great service. I would definitely go back.

    (4)

  • Jeremy F.

    Brennecke's is the perfect stop after a great day at the beach. Excellent Mai Tai's and great pupu's! I wish I was there right now!

    (5)

  • LisaLisa F.

    I was hesitant to eat here after reading a few of the nasty comments, but am glad I did. I called them while on the beach to get in and it was a breeze. we got to watch the amazing sunset from the open air dining room. the fam had the shrimp stuffed mushrooms which were good. I was bummed they did not offer calamari like all the advertisements say they do one person had half a caesar and the coconut prawn app for dinner. she pronounced the coconut prawns the BEST she has ever had. I had the rare ahi tuna with porcini mushroom ravioli in pesto. it had a TON of flavor and the ahi cut like butter. however the ravioli tasted like they came out of a freezer...not fresh like I was expecting. the bbq ribs were also amazing. LavaLava Flow drink with Koloa Rum is outstanding. CON: when we are spending $30 a plate for entrees...the LAST thing I want is to have my effing dinner show up two minutes AFTER I just got my damn salad. Server needs some serious TRAINING on timing and protocol It took 10 minutes to get my drink after ordering it. Service needs to be worked on Food: 4 stars Service: 2 stars

    (4)

  • Michael M.

    Stopped here on our way to the beach. Yelp says it opens at 9am, but it doesn't start serving food until 11am. The bar portion opens at 10am. Even so, great drinks in a very laid-back atmosphere. The staff was very friendly, and kept us entertained. Good place for a Mai Tai!

    (4)

  • Matt F.

    Best fish tacos I've ever had. Service was phenomenal, drinks were mixed perfectly. Lunch with a cool breeze, life doesn't get any better.

    (5)

  • Veronica W.

    This place is pretty good. I really only go here to have the clam chowder and a beer for lunch. The view is the best thing about this place. Service is OK. I do agree with other reviews that the mixed drinks appear to have absolutely no alcohol in them. That's why now, I will only order beer. I haven't had too many items on the menu, but all have been tasty: fish and chips, salads, and the clam chowder. So bottom line, this place is just OK . . . I would recommend lunch only.

    (3)

  • Lizzie W.

    Okay, here's the deal. Because I'm pretty split on Brennecke's, I'm going to outline the good and the bad, seperately. Bad: If you plan on spending time at the parks or beaches across from Brennecke's, you should be aware that the dining options are limited. That's what caused us to go to Brennecke's twice, being that it is the most accessible option. The first meal that I had at Brennecke's was good, (I'll get to that later) but the second meal was lackluster. I had the chicken sandwich with garlic butter. The chicken was horribly overdone and tasted incredibly dry. The flavoring of the actual chicken was non existent, and the garlic sauce was delicious but not nearly strong enough to compensate for it's otherwise bland flavor. The fries are regular and run of the mill (it takes a lot of effort to actually butcher fries). Next my friend and I decided to order ginger creme brûlée for dessert. The dessert was flavorless just like the chicken. I've had a lot better creme brûlée in various other restaurants. Brennecke's simply doesn't have the chef skills to try and tackle that specific dessert. Overall the second meal that I had there was a complete bust. Good: The first meal that I had at Brennecke's wasn't anything gloat worthy, but it certainly was far superior to the latter. I decided to go safe and order a cheeseburger. (I had a cheeseburger on this vacation 3 other times simply because the meat in Kauai is delicious and fresh) The burger here (that I topped with avocado and bacon) was fairly good. It wasn't the best burger I had on the trip, but it certainly was something that would (and did) make me go back to Brennecke's again. One thing that was absolutely DELICIOUS were the nachos that my friend ordered. The Kalua pork they use is out of this world and I would highly recommend it to anyone as an appetizer. The ambiance of Brennecke's is very fun as well. The walls are adorned with college paraphernalia and I imagine it would be a good place to go and watch a game, if you find that of interest. However, both times I went to Brennecke's it was never overly crowded. We were seated within 10 minutes, and the service was swift and efficient. (minus the waitress actually bringing a third creme brûlée when we only ordered 2) but hey, she was apologetic about it and it didn't show up on our bill. I'm giving Brennecke's 3 stars because of its average food. (and also lack of selection on the lunch menu) living in a place where it's hard to find good seafood, I was disappointed when the selection was pretty barren. Brennecke's does earn points for it's location and ambiance which are both very nice.

    (3)

  • Alex C.

    Kalua pork nachos were incredible. Justin the bartender was hilarious. The view and sea breeze were perfect. Broke da mouf!!

    (5)

  • Raymond W.

    Food was delicious, service was outstanding, couldn't ask for more. Got the shrimp stuffed mushrooms, St. Louis ribs, and washed it down with Kona wheat ale.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :7:00 am - 11:00pm
  • Mon : 7:00 am - 11:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : Yes
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : No
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Good For Dancing : No
    Alcohol : Full Bar
    Happy Hour : Yes
    Best Nights : Wed, Thu, Fri
    Coat Check : No
    Smoking : No
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Wi-Fi : Free
    Has TV : Yes
    Dogs Allowed : No
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : Yes

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler

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