Where to Eat Near Nawiliwili Harbor: Best Cruise Ship Dining in Lihue
Stepping off your cruise ship at Nawiliwili Harbor on Kauai? You've arrived at one of Hawaii's most scenic ports, with the Haupu Mountain ridge rising dramatically behind Kalapaki Bay. And you don't need to venture far to find excellent dining – Harbor Mall is walking distance from the cruise terminal, home to locally-owned restaurants serving everything from authentic Thai to fresh island sushi.
Harbor Mall: Kauai's Cruise Ship Dining Destination
Harbor Mall sits directly across from Nawiliwili Harbor on Rice Street in Lihue. The shopping center runs a free trolley shuttle on cruise ship days, transporting passengers between the terminal and the mall. No rental car needed for your first Kauai meal.
The mall's "Restaurant Row" features multiple locally-owned eateries, but for travelers craving bold Asian flavors with an ocean view, ALISA Sushi & Thai Bistro on the 2nd floor delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
ALISA Sushi & Thai Bistro: Thai Food and Sushi at Nawiliwili Harbor
The View
ALISA's outdoor balcony seating overlooks Kalapaki Bay and the very harbor where your cruise ship is docked. Watch sailboats, surfers, and fellow passengers strolling the waterfront while you dine on authentic Thai cuisine.
The Menu
Our owner-chef has over 20 years of experience crafting traditional Thai dishes and Japanese sushi. Everything is made to order using fresh ingredients:
Thai Favorites:
- Pad Thai – rice noodles with your choice of protein, perfectly balanced flavors
- Tom Kha – creamy coconut soup with galangal and lemongrass
- Green Curry – Thai basil, bamboo shoots, and your preferred spice level
- Drunken Noodles – wide rice noodles with fresh Thai basil
- Thai Iced Tea – served in generous portions, perfect for tropical weather
Sushi & Japanese:
- Fresh sashimi and nigiri
- Specialty rolls and classic favorites
- Poke bowls with island-caught fish
- Tempura appetizers
Dietary Accommodations
ALISA caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Our kitchen uses organic produce and prepares dishes without MSG.