Neide's Salsa and Samba - Brazilian and Mexican food in Hanalei
In order to figure out where to eat on vacation, we spend hours poring over guidebooks, web sites, and magazines, as well as interrogating friends and family. So when we headed to Kauai in February, we had a short list for every part of the island.
Since Ahi tuna, in one form or another, seems to be on every Kauai menu, we wanted some alternatives. And Neide's Salsa and Samba, in the cute little town of Hanalei, sounded appealing.
Our GPS got us as far as the parking lot of the Old Hanalei School. From there, we had to set out on foot. Neide's is in the building that's adjacent to the old schoolhouse, tucked around the back. Their colorful outdoor seating comes with a cool breeze, a backdrop of tropical gardens, and mountain and waterfall views.
What's not to like?
Our friendly server brought chips, salsa, and menus, which offered both exotic Brazilian specialties and traditional Mexican dishes including fish tacos, 
enchiladas, and burritos. We decided to go Brazilian and order a Muqueca, a traditional clay-pot stew made with coconut milk.
We ordered the catch of the day, which included fresh mahi mahi and shrimp. The perfectly cooked fillet, robed in a spicy tomato coconut sauce with onions, garlic, and peppers, came with rice and a side salad. It was far more than one person could eat. Ditto the carne asada, which covered most of the 15" plate.
Our bill came to $60, but we felt like the quality justified the price. Service wasn't exactly speedy, but who cares when you have ice-cold Mexican beer, a bowl of chips, fresh salsa, and a view like that?
If you're ready for something other than the typical Hawaiian fare, give Neide's a try.
5-5161 Kuhio Hwy
Hanalei Center
Hanalei, Kauai
808.826.1851
Entrees from $9-$15
Open daily noon-2:30pm and 5-9:30pm
Keywords on sheet player enough wrote on 11/18/09 1:42 AM
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