When many locals think of burgers in Kauai, they think of Bubba Burgers. They’ve been serving old-fashioned hamburgers on the island since 1936. Their most popular burger is the Double Bubba. But if you’re really hungry try their Big Bubba (triple patties) with a half pound of Kauai grass fed beef.
Or try their Slopper, an open-faced burger smothered with Bubba’s famous “Coors Tavern” and topped with diced onions. For a local taste, order their Teriyaki burger. Regular burgers are dressed with a tasty mix of relish and onions, which is what sets Bubba Burgers apart from the competition.
The legendary place has a legendary motto – We cheat tourists, drunks and attorneys. Legend has it that that it was initially only tourists and drunks, until an attorney tried to sue them for that. So Bubba added attorneys to the list. Bubba doesn’t actually cheat anyone, but the slogan sells a lot of apparel. (There may be a discount on food if you’re wearing Bubba Burgers apparel. Inquire at the counter.)
Of all the cool places to eat in Kauai, Bubba Burgers should be at the top of your list. The place is essential Kauai. Iconic, legendary and best of all delicious. We eat at Bubba Burgers often. The burgers are consistently good day in and day out, with a savory, unique taste that keeps us coming back for more.
Bubba Burgers in Hanalei has a wall full of photos of celebrities who have visited their location and posed with employees. The Hanalei area is a favorite destination for celebrities, and many end up at Bubba Burgers.
Among the celebrities on the wall are Dakota Johnson, Nat Faxon, Adam Savage, Donald Glover, Rob Lowe, Alyssa Milano, Molly Shannon, Jon Favreau, Ben Stiller, Josh Brolin, Robert Downey Jr, Adam Sandler, Jimmy Kimmel, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Jack Black, Matt Damon and President Bill Clinton.
Other celebrities known to live in or visit the area, to name a few, include Pierce Brosnan, Chuck Norris, Ozzy Osbourne and son, Will Smith and Jorge Garcia (who we noticed when we were standing in line behind him at Bubba Burgers). What should you do if you see a celebrity in Kauai?
Our suggestion is to do nothing. Chances are they are seeking peace and quiet in a beautiful location, just like you are.
Bubba Burgers has two locations, in Kapaa and Poipu. Unfortunately, the popular location in Hanalei has closed.
Poipu (South Shore)
2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka
Koloa, HI
(808) 742-6900
Kapaa
4-1435 Kuhio Hwy # 104
Kapaa, HI
(808) 823-0069