Classic Italian cuisine and Old World charm come to Kaua‘i at the beautifully upscale Donderos. Styled after a vintage Tuscan villa, this charming Italian eatery boasts colorfully frescoed walls, a truly decadent wine list, and a menu of your favorite dishes all lovingly prepared with the freshest ingredients. For a casual yet refined experience, Dondero’s is the crossroads of culinary art and delicious food.
The Hawaiian Riviera
Located in the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort in Koloa, Dondero’s in Kauai occupies a beautiful space overlooking the lush grounds of the resort. Dine al fresco or at one of the tables situated behind stunning floor-to-ceiling windows; either way, the view is fantastic. All of your favorite Italian classics are here, along with hand-made pastas, innovative daily specials, and island-inspired takes on Italian cuisine.
Antipasti
No Italian eatery is complete without a lineup of delicious appetizers, and Dondero’s doesn’t disappoint. Whether you prefer the Seafood Fritti with its fresh local seafood, the Fig Bruschetta (with balsamic marinated figs and prosciutto), or the Peppered Beef Carpaccio, there are enough tantalizing options to make you forget about an entrée. Don’t. That would be a huge mistake.
The Mains at Donderos
Dondero’s in Kauai daily specials are not to be missed, and their signature dishes are absolutely stunning. The local fresh catch of the day is prepared in white wine with fresh vegetables like artichoke, asparagus, and lemon-crushed potatoes, while the Cioppino is bursting with fresh seafood like lobster, local shrimp, scallops, and fish in a spicy saffron-tomato soup. Just don’t ask for the recipe (it’s a trade secret).
Hand-Made Pasta
From Squid Ink Pasta (with fresh scallops, parmesan citrus oil, and truffles) to the Not So Classic Carbonara with kiawe-smoked bacon, braised leeks, red beet pasta, and a sous vide duck egg, Old meets New with Chef Cary Roy’s inventive take on classic Italian fare. Subtle notes of saffron dance on the tongue, perfectly paired with citrus and salt with the Atlantic Lobster and Crab, while the Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi trumpet the rich flavors of mushroom, pepper, and parmesan. The house made tortelli and the chef’s carnaroli risotto change daily, and never disappoint. Even classics like Shrimp Scampi and Pasta Bolognese benefit from a reimagining, and we swear Italian has never tasted so good.
Donderos is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 to 9:30pm. Reservations are encouraged, as is resort casual attire.
Contact our team of reservation specialists to learn more about great places to eat in Kauai and to book one of our beautiful vacation rentals!
