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Ethnic and Local

Hamura's Saimin. Old time local establishment. Very unfancy, but a Kaua'i tradition. In Lihue, on Kress St, just off Rice St. 245-3271.

Kaua'i Tip. Vowels in Hawaiian are pronounced much like those in Spanish. A = ah, E = ay, I = ee, O = oh, and U = ew. The Okina (') is a slight pause, like in uh-oh. So Pe'e Rd is pronounced PAY-ay Rd, and Oneone Rd is pronounced OH-nay-OH-nay, not wun-wun, or eleven.

Japanese Grandma. Authentic Japanese cuisine. Very enjoyable meals, fine presentations and good service. In Hanapepe, on Hanapepe Rd. Japanese Grandma shares the same building and entrance as Blu Umi, and is a little east of the Swinging Bridge. 808-855-5016. www.japanesegrandma.com.

Kaua'i Tip. Speech courtesy. Residents prefer to be known as "locals" rather than "natives." And when vacation is over, you return to the "mainland", not the "states", since HI is a state.

Koloa Thai Bistro. Delicious and attractive Thai and Japanese dishes. Indoor and lanai settings. Good service, attractive atmosphere. Upstairs. Friendly service. https://koloathai.com/. In the Koloa Village Marketplace in Koloa, about a mile inland from Poipu. 808-359-7878.

Shivalik. Savory Indian cuisine in a complimentary setting. In the back rite section of the Waipouli Town Center in Waipouli on the east side. www.shivalikindianfood.com. 821-2333.

That Indian Place. Delicious Indian Cuisine, featuring masala, paneer and other dishes. Dine on a relaxing lanai setting. Friendly service. BYOB. In the Poipu Shopping Village in Poipu, towards the rear of the mall. 808-320-3512.

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