Location and Overview
La Spezia Restaurant and Wine Bar is a homestyle Italian restaurant located in Old Koloa Town on Kauaʻi’s sunny south shore (Poipu area). The restaurant sits at 5492 Koloa Road, Koloa, HI 96756, directly across from the Koloa post office and adjacent to the Big Save market. Its exact coordinates are approximately 21.904986° N, 159.463499° W, placing it in the heart of Koloa. This cozy establishment has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2013, even being voted Kaua‘i’s Best Italian Restaurant in local polls. Visitors will find it easily while exploring Koloa Town’s quaint shops – look for its unassuming facade that conceals a warm Italian bistro vibe inside.
Contact Information:
- Official Name: La Spezia Restaurant and Wine Bar
- Address: 5492 Koloa Road, Koloa, HI 96756 (South Shore, Poipu area)
- Latitude/Longitude: 21.904986 N, -159.463499 W
- Phone: (808) 742-8824
- Website: laspeziakauai.com
- Area: Old Koloa Town (Poipu, Kauai’s South Shore)
La Spezia’s location is ideal for those staying in Poipu resorts or exploring the south side of the island. It offers a convenient stop for dinner after a day at Poipu Beach or sightseeing around Koloa. The restaurant’s name “La Spezia” (meaning “the spice” in Italian and also a town in Italy) hints at its Italian roots and perhaps pays homage to a street in Rome near the owner’s family home. This is a family-run establishment – co-owned by Elizabeth “Liz” Foley – and was envisioned as a friendly neighborhood restaurant rather than just a special-occasion venue. In fact, the owners wanted a place where “it’s a Wednesday night and you don’t want to cook, so you go to La Spezia and see friendly faces”. That approachable, local vibe is a key part of La Spezia’s identity.
Cuisine and Price Range
La Spezia serves authentic Italian cuisine with an island twist. The menu focuses on homestyle Italian dishes made from scratch – including fresh house-made pastas – and incorporates local Hawaiian ingredients (like fresh seafood and produce) for a unique tropical influence. Diners can expect classic Italian comfort foods (pasta, risotto, antipasti) alongside inventive specials that reflect Kauai’s bounty, creating “a taste of Italy with a tropical twist” in each dish. The restaurant is also noted to be vegetarian-friendly, offering meatless options (such as a hearty eggplant parmesan and creative salads) and even gluten-free substitutions like zucchini noodle pasta upon request.
Price Range: La Spezia is generally considered a $$ – $$$ restaurant (moderate to moderately upscale pricing). In practical terms, this means appetizers typically range from about $10–$20, pastas in the mid-$20s, and larger entrées (like steak or seafood) in the $30–$45 range. For Kauaʻi’s dining scene, these prices are reasonable and reflect the quality ingredients and generous portions. Most guests find the value worthwhile, noting that the “fresh ingredients and handmade pasta will leave you dreaming of your next bite”. The restaurant’s wine program (it is also a wine bar) features an extensive list of Italian and international wines, and drinks are similarly in line with upscale casual dining prices. Overall, expect to spend roughly $25–$40 per person on a filling dinner, with the option to splurge on a nice bottle of wine from their cellar.
Cuisine Type: Predominantly Italian (think classic pastas, Italian seafood, steaks, antipasti), with some Mediterranean and local Hawaiian touches. There are options for vegetarians, and the kitchen is accommodating to dietary needs (for example, offering gluten-free pasta alternatives). The menu and style have earned La Spezia a strong reputation – it’s ranked among the top restaurants in Koloa with 4.5/5 stars on major review sites. In 2022, it even won the title of “Best Italian Restaurant on Kauaʻi,” underscoring its cuisine quality.
Ambiance and Notable Features
The interior of La Spezia is intimate and warm, with hardwood floors, rustic decor, and a dedicated “Vino” wine room visible – evoking an elegant yet homey Italian trattoria atmosphere.
La Spezia offers a cozy, intimate ambiance that blends elegant touches with a casual, homey feel. The dining room is on the smaller side (befitting its “hidden gem” status), with roughly a dozen tables and a few seats at the bar, so it fills up quickly on busy nights. The decor features warm wood floors, soft lighting from chandeliers, and 1920s jazz music playing softly in the background to set a relaxing mood. The walls are adorned with black-and-white family photographs taken near Rome’s Via Spezia (“Spice Road”) – a personal touch from the owner’s family heritage that reinforces the authentic Italian vibe. Altogether, the atmosphere has been described as “elegant yet homey” and inviting, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a rustic Italian bistro or wine cellar rather than a formal fine-dining venue.
Notably, La Spezia houses an impressive wine collection – a climate-controlled cellar holding over 600 bottles of wine, visible through a window with a bold “VINO” sign on the wall. As a true wine bar, it boasts an extensive wine list highlighting Italian varietals and global wines. They even offer wine flights (trios of reds, whites, or Italian wines) to let guests sample multiple labels. This focus on wine, along with a full bar (one reviewer even praised their “outstanding bourbon selection”), makes it a great spot for those who appreciate drinks as much as the food.
Notable Features/Amenities: La Spezia is family-run and family-friendly – while the ambiance feels romantic and adult-oriented in the evening, well-behaved children are welcome (high chairs have been available, and the casual setting means kids wouldn’t feel out of place). The overall vibe is casual island attire (no strict dress code; you’ll see guests in aloha shirts and sundresses). Reservations are accepted and highly recommended given the limited seating – especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, as walk-ins often face a wait (one guest noted “you must make a reservation or you likely won’t get a table” on busy nights). The restaurant is open-air or lightly air-conditioned, and on warm tropical evenings the interior can become a bit warm and lively when full. There is no dedicated outdoor patio dining; all seating is indoors, which is smoke-free and comfortably spaced, though it can get a little noisy when every table is occupied (part of the energetic, convivial atmosphere).
La Spezia’s location in a small town means parking is relatively easy. The restaurant offers a free parking lot immediately to the side/behind the building, and there is also street parking along Koloa Road. Guests report no major issues finding a spot, especially in the evenings when nearby shops are closed. Other amenities include accessibility for wheelchairs (the entrance and interior are on one level), and they cater to private events or special dinners upon inquiry (they have hosted occasional fixed-menu wine dinners and can handle group reservations). The staff embody genuine “Hawaiian hospitality”, contributing to the warm ambiance – from the friendly host greeting you with aloha to knowledgeable servers who can suggest a perfect wine pairing. Many reviewers highlight the “inviting decor and warm ambiance” that immediately make you feel at home.
In summary, the ambiance at La Spezia manages to be romantic enough for a date night (dim lighting, wine and jazz, cozy tables) yet relaxed enough for families and locals to dine regularly. It strikes a balance between upscale and unpretentious. This unique character – an Italian trattoria transplanted to a Hawaiian plantation-era town – is often cited as part of what makes dining here a memorable experience.
History and Background
La Spezia opened its doors in October 2013 and has since established itself as a beloved dining fixture on Kauai’s south shore. The restaurant was founded by Elizabeth (“Liz”) Foley and her family, including daughter Mia, who was a bartender there in the early years. From the outset, the Foley family’s goal was to create a neighborhood Italian eatery that locals could enjoy regularly, not just a fancy special-occasion restaurant. “We didn’t want to be an establishment where people would go out to dinner only once a year on their anniversary,” Liz’s daughter explained. “We wanted to be the place where it’s a weeknight, you don’t want to cook, so you go to La Spezia and see friendly faces”. This philosophy of approachability and community has guided La Spezia’s evolution.
The name “La Spezia” has personal significance. It’s Italian for “the spice,” and it’s also the name of a street in Rome (Via Spezia) near where Elizabeth’s family lived. Fittingly, the interior decor features those family photos from Italy and a sprinkling of Old World charm that reflect the owners’ heritage. In essence, the restaurant’s identity is a blend of Italian family traditions and Kauaʻi local community spirit. Liz Foley, the co-owner (and according to some, the head chef as well), imbued the menu with recipes and influences from her Italian roots – from “Nonna’s Lasagna” to the hand-rolled pastas – while also drawing on the island’s fresh ingredients.
Over the years, La Spezia gained a reputation not just among locals but also with visitors and critics. It garnered positive press, including a mention in the New York Times travel feature “36 Hours in Kauai” and praise in Honolulu Magazine as a must-try dining spot. The local newspaper, The Garden Island, featured La Spezia in 2014, applauding its solid Italian food at reasonable prices and highlighting its unique offerings like wine flights and brunch specialties. That article noted the restaurant’s wine cellar of 600+ bottles and described the environment as “convivial” and “homey” – a place where friends gather often, aligning with the Foleys’ vision. Liz Foley was quoted as saying, “All Italian food is comfort food… creating the meal, eating it and sharing it with friends and family is an everyday event”, a sentiment that encapsulates La Spezia’s hospitality philosophy.
In terms of chef and kitchen, La Spezia has had talented chefs helming day-to-day operations. In its early years, Megan Handke was noted as “Chef della Cucina,” bringing inventive touches like a pork-belly-infused vinaigrette for the kale salad and perfectly executing dishes that ended up on a local “Best of” list. The consistent thread, regardless of who’s in the kitchen, is a dedication to from-scratch cooking (all pastas, sauces, dressings, and desserts are house-made) and a passion for quality. The family’s hands-on presence – you might see Liz herself in the kitchen or greeting guests – adds to the sense that you’re dining in someone’s home.
La Spezia has adapted over time too. It originally offered breakfast and lunch in addition to dinner (and became famous for its Sunday brunch), though as of recent years it has focused primarily on dinner service. During the 2020 pandemic, La Spezia pivoted to takeout and even temporarily expanded to lunch hours for the community. It survived the challenging times with strong local support, and by 2021-2022 resumed dine-in dinner service with the same warmth and quality. The restaurant’s history is still being written, but its first decade has established it as a reliable, consistent favorite for both Kauaʻi residents and visitors seeking an Italian meal with heart and soul.
Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
A bowl of Vongole e Gamberetti, one of La Spezia’s standout pasta dishes, featuring fresh Kauaʻi clams and shrimp tossed with spaghetti in a light seafood broth with tomatoes, herbs, and chili – exemplifying the restaurant’s blend of Italian flavors and local island ingredients.
The menu at La Spezia is a carefully crafted selection of Italian classics and house specialties, all made with a homestyle approach. It changes seasonally, but there are a few signature dishes and perennial favorites that have earned rave reviews:
- Short Rib Ravioli: A house-made ravioli stuffed with tender braised short rib, served in a rich red wine demi-glace with local mushrooms. This dish encapsulates La Spezia’s ethos of comfort food elevated – it’s deeply flavorful and often cited as a must-try (the fresh pasta and slow-cooked filling melt in your mouth). Many guests say they dream about this dish long after their trip.
- Oxtail Pappardelle: Another hearty pasta specialty, featuring wide pappardelle noodles and slow-braised oxtail in an au jus sauce. Oxtail is a nod to local Hawaiian favorites, and here it’s integrated into an Italian format. Diners love its rich, savory depth – one reviewer noted their dining companion “got the oxtail [pasta] and loved it”.
- Prosciutto Flatbread: An appetizer flatbread topped with Parmesan cream sauce, prosciutto, mozzarella, local mushrooms and a drizzle of truffle oil. It’s a perfect starter to share, balancing salty, earthy and creamy flavors. This flatbread, often highlighted in recommendations, pairs wonderfully with a glass of Italian red wine.
- Tre Formaggi and Antipasti Boards: For an authentic wine-bar experience, La Spezia offers a tre formaggi (trio of gourmet Italian cheeses with crostini) and antipasto platters of Italian cured meats, cheeses, olives, and house-pickled veggies. These platters are great for grazing and have drawn praise for their quality – think imported cheeses, artisanal salami, and condiments made in-house. Enjoying a cheese plate with one of their wine flights is a popular way to start the meal.
- Nonna’s Lasagna: A labor of love that layers four cheeses, spinach, zucchini, and béchamel with a zesty arrabbiata sauce, baked to bubbly perfection. This vegetarian-friendly lasagna is a tribute to classic Italian comfort food – it’s indulgent and satisfying, often reminding diners of a home-cooked meal from an Italian grandmother (hence the name).
- Seafood Specialties: Being on an island, La Spezia takes advantage of fresh seafood. The Vongole e Gamberetti (clams and shrimp spaghetti, pictured above) is one standout, with sweet local littleneck clams and shrimp in a garlicky white wine and herb broth with a touch of chili heat. They also typically have a catch-of-the-day preparation (listed as Fresco dal Mare, market price) featuring whatever local fish is freshest – it might be seared ahi tuna over risotto one night, or Parmesan-crusted opakapaka on another. Seafood lovers consistently praise these dishes for showcasing Hawaii’s ocean bounty in an Italian style.
- Meat Entrées: For those looking beyond pasta, the menu offers succulent options like the Wagyu Hanger Steak with potato purée and marsala demi-glace, and the Costata Argentina – an Argentine-style ribeye steak with herbed compound butter and seasonal veggies. These dishes are cooked with Italian techniques (e.g., the marsala wine sauce) yet have global flair. Reviewers who try the steaks or veal scallopine often comment on their excellent execution and flavor, noting that even non-pasta dishes are top-notch.
- Chef’s Nightly Creations: La Spezia keeps things interesting with nightly specials and seasonal items. The gnocchi and tortellini on the menu, for example, are noted as changing nightly – one evening you might find pillowy basil pesto gnocchi, another night it could be ricotta-filled tortellini in sage brown butter. This rotation of specials means there’s often something new to try, even for return visitors.
- Brunch Favorites (Historical): While currently La Spezia is focused on dinner, it gained fame for its Sunday brunch in past years, and these dishes are worth mentioning in any discussion of their specialties. The most legendary is the Brie-Stuffed French Toast, which a local food writer put on her “Best Of” list. This decadent dish featured Hawaiian sweet bread dipped in custard, filled with melted Brie cheese and a smear of raspberry jam, topped with crispy bacon – a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and rich. It exemplified how La Spezia could elevate a humble breakfast item to something extraordinary. Other brunch hits included various Eggs Benedict (one photo in their gallery shows a beautiful Eggs Benedict creation) and $5 house-made Bloody Marys. Even though brunch isn’t offered at the moment, locals still talk about it – a testament to the kitchen’s versatility.
- Salads and Sides: The restaurant’s commitment to quality shows even in their salads and side dishes. The House Salad with Gorgonzola and apple is refreshing, and the Kale Salad became notable because of its complex two-day dressing – involving balsamic-braised pork belly and roasted shallots – and a crispy fried poached egg on top. Such creative touches turn a simple salad into a conversation piece. Sides like truffle cream fettuccine (Fettuccine Calabrese with sausage and mushrooms), or the crispy fried zucchini with lemon-caper aioli, round out the menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you crave indulgence or something light.
- Desserts: Be sure to save room if you can. La Spezia’s dessert menu changes frequently, but you might find tiramisu, an amaro cheesecake, chocolate decadence torte, or a salted caramel panna cotta. All desserts are made in-house. One highlight that gets mentions is their affogato (espresso over gelato) when available – a simple Italian classic that’s a perfect cap to a rich meal. With the restaurant also being a coffee aficionado (they serve French press coffee), dessert and coffee here can be a delightful experience on its own.
Overall, La Spezia’s menu is praised for its homemade quality and bold flavors. Guests often comment that each dish feels crafted with care and passion, rather than the generic fare of a chain restaurant. Portions are generally generous – you might take home leftovers, especially if you enjoyed antipasti beforehand. The kitchen also shows flexibility: for example, they offer zucchini “zoodles” as a substitute in some pasta dishes for those who prefer a low-carb or gluten-free option. This mix of classic recipes, local innovation, and customer-friendly touches defines La Spezia’s cuisine. Whether you’re craving a “comfort pasta” like spaghetti and meatballs or seeking a unique island-inspired creation, you’ll find something satisfying on their menu.
Dining Experience and Atmosphere
Dining at La Spezia is often described as memorable and satisfying, not only for the food but for the entire experience. From the moment you step in, you’ll likely be greeted by a friendly host (often by name if you’re a repeat local patron) and maybe even by one of the owners. The service here consistently earns high marks. Many reviews single out the staff’s attentiveness and personality – for instance, one visitor wrote that “Jimmy was our server and he simply made our night. He was attentive [and] funny as heck… Ask for him when you go there”. Others have praised servers for being knowledgeable about the menu and wine, and for treating guests like family. On the flip side, a very small number of reviews mention an occasional brusque host or a wait when it’s extremely busy, but such comments are rare compared to the overwhelming sentiment of warmth. The management clearly cares – any past criticisms about service appear to have been addressed over time, as recent diners consistently mention “excellent service” and hospitality.
The timing of the meal is typically relaxed. La Spezia runs on “island time” to a degree (in a good way) – you’re encouraged to savor courses, enjoy your wine, and not feel rushed. Plan on perhaps 1.5 to 2 hours for a full three-course dinner experience, especially if the restaurant is full. This leisurely pace contributes to the enjoyable ambiance; it feels like a mini vacation in Italy while you dine. If you’re in a hurry, you can let your server know and they will accommodate as best as possible, but most people come here to unwind and indulge.
The atmosphere in the dining room tends to start quieter and then grow lively as the evening progresses. Early diners often find it peaceful and romantic – an ideal time for couples. Later in the evening, especially when every table is occupied and perhaps a large party is celebrating, it can become bustling and a bit noisy (the hardwood floors and tight space amplify sound). It’s a happy, convivial kind of noise though – the sound of people clinking glasses, laughing, and exclaiming over their food. If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere, making a reservation for the opening hour (5:00 pm) might be wise. Conversely, if you enjoy a vibrant scene, 7:00 pm on a weekend will have a nice buzz. Do note that because of the small space and popularity, it may get warm inside on a hot evening; ceiling fans are present but there’s no heavy air conditioning, so dress in light clothing if you’re sensitive to heat.
One unique aspect of La Spezia’s vibe is how it can feel both casual and upscale at the same time. You’ll see diners in flip-flops and shorts at one table, and another table might be a couple dressed up for a romantic anniversary. Both fit in just fine. The staff maintains professionalism but with the laid-back friendliness that Hawaiʻi is known for. It’s the kind of place you can toast with a fancy Barolo wine or just as comfortably enjoy a local beer with your pizza-style flatbread.
The restaurant’s reputation among visitors and locals alike speaks volumes. On TripAdvisor, La Spezia maintains a stellar 4.5-star rating average across over 1,000 reviews, and is ranked #4 of 61 restaurants in Koloa as of the latest count. On Yelp, it similarly holds about 4.5 out of 5 stars (roughly 1,200 reviews), which is impressive for any eatery. The praise in reviews is effusive: guests frequently call it the “best meal on the island” and commend everything from the flavors to the portion sizes. Many highlight the homemade pastas (“you can truly taste the difference of fresh pasta” is a common sentiment) and often compare it favorably to dining experiences in Italy. The extensive wine list also gets a nod; wine enthusiasts appreciate the curated selection and knowledgeable recommendations from servers. Even the bar program earns love – one Yelp reviewer noted the “outstanding bourbon selection” and cocktails, an unexpected perk for an Italian spot.
What Guests Love Most: The top praise goes to the food quality and flavor. Dishes like the short rib ravioli, oxtail pasta, and seafood linguine get repeated shout-outs for being packed with flavor and expertly prepared. The word “authentic” comes up a lot; despite being in Hawaii, diners feel they are getting a true Italian taste. The generous portions and value are also appreciated – you’re likely to leave very full, and sometimes with leftovers. Service is another highlight, with the friendly and knowledgeable staff making diners feel welcome (several reviewers specifically mentioned how the staff helped make birthday or anniversary celebrations special). The atmosphere is often described as “cozy”, “charming”, and “like a little European bistro”. Many couples mention it’s a perfect date spot, while families note that the relaxed vibe kept everyone comfortable.
Common Critiques: No restaurant is perfect, and a few themes do emerge among the less-than-5-star reviews. The most frequent mild complaint is about the price – a few diners felt certain dishes were a bit pricey for what they got, or noted that with wine the bill adds up (one guest said “the food is good, though rather pricey”). However, this is usually tempered by understanding that Kauaʻi’s restaurant prices are generally high due to import costs, and most agree the quality justifies the cost. Another occasional issue mentioned is wait times or reservations – because La Spezia is popular, some who showed up without a reservation on a busy night were unable to be seated or had to wait. This sometimes leads to frustration, but again, the remedy is simple: reserve a table in advance (the restaurant provides easy online booking and phone reservations). A few solitary diners commented that they felt less warmly received when dining alone during peak hours (one reviewer felt the restaurant didn’t “appreciate the solo diner” when they came without companions). While such experiences are not the norm, it’s something to be aware of if you’re dining solo – perhaps try a seat at the bar, where the bartenders will happily engage you. Finally, as mentioned, the noise and warmth level can be a negative for those sensitive to it, but planning an earlier dinner or requesting a specific seating area can mitigate this.
On balance, the customer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors end up eating here multiple times during their stay, or make it a point to return on each Kauaʻi vacation (some even say it’s the first reservation they make when planning a trip). Locals, too, keep it in their rotation for a satisfying night out. The combination of heartfelt service, a welcoming atmosphere, and consistently excellent Italian food makes La Spezia stand out. As one review summary perfectly put it: “Great food, great service, atmosphere – everything! We will eat here again on our next Kauai trip”. That encapsulates the dining experience you can expect.
Practical Information for Visitors
When planning your visit to La Spezia, here are some practical details to keep in mind:
- Hours of Operation: Dinner Only. La Spezia is currently open 7 days a week for dinner service from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. (Kitchen may take last orders around 8:45 pm.) Note: In its early years, La Spezia served breakfast (7–11 am) and lunch (12–4 pm) daily, plus a special Sunday brunch. However, as of now, no breakfast or lunch is offered – it’s an dinner-focused restaurant. Always check their website or call ahead for the latest hours, especially around holidays or off-season, as hours can occasionally change.
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for parties of 4 or more or during peak tourist season (summer and winter holidays). You can book a table via their official website’s reservation system or by calling (808) 742-8824. Same-day reservations are often possible if made by afternoon, but without one, expect a wait if you walk in during dinner rush. The restaurant does hold tables for reservations first, and there is limited space to wait inside (though you can browse nearby shops if there’s a waitlist). For larger groups (6+), an automatic 20% gratuity is added, and it’s wise to call a few days in advance. Tip: If you have a special occasion (birthday, etc.), mention it when reserving – the staff often go the extra mile to acknowledge it.
- Parking: Free parking is available. There is a small private parking lot immediately next to the restaurant (to the left of the building, as you face the entrance) and additional street parking along Koloa Road. In the evenings, parking is usually plentiful as many nearby businesses are closed. There’s no valet, but you likely won’t need it in this easygoing town. The lot is flat and a short walk to the door, making it convenient for those with mobility concerns.
- Finding It: La Spezia is on Koloa’s main road. Look for the greenish wooden storefronts of Old Koloa Town – the restaurant is in a row of shops, with a modest sign. If you’re coming from Poipu resort areas, it’s about a 5-minute drive. From Lihue (where the airport is), it’s roughly 25 minutes by car: take Kaumualiʻi Highway (Route 50) south, turn left down Maluhia Road through the famous Tree Tunnel, then left again when you hit Koloa Road; La Spezia will be about a quarter mile ahead on your right-hand side.
- Dress Code: Casual. There’s no strict dress code – typical island attire is fine (shorts, aloha shirts, sandals). Many diners do choose to dress up a bit in the evening (sun dresses, nice jeans, etc.), especially for a date or celebration, but you’ll be comfortable in resort casual wear. The dining room is informal and there’s no air conditioning blasting, so dressing light is advisable.
- Family Friendliness: La Spezia is generally family-friendly. They don’t advertise a kids’ menu, but the kitchen can often prepare a simple pasta or buttered noodles for picky eaters, and the pizza-like flatbread or meatballs tend to be kid pleasers. High chairs were available in the past. That said, the atmosphere in the later evening is adult-oriented (wine bar vibe), so families with very young children often come on the earlier side of dinner. Noise from kids wouldn’t stand out too much given the lively acoustics, but as a courtesy, most bring children who can sit through a meal. If you have toddlers, an early dinner when the restaurant is quieter might be more comfortable.
- Dietary Needs: The menu labels or servers can identify vegetarian options (there are several, like lasagna with veggies, eggplant parmesan, salads, etc. – and you can always ask to have a pasta prepared meat-free). For gluten-free diners, as mentioned, they offer zucchini noodles as a substitute in a few pasta dishes, and naturally gluten-free choices like risotto (when available) or meat entrées without flour are options. Vegans will have a tougher time (due to cheese in many items), but one could potentially request a pasta with olive oil and veggies. If you have allergies, inform your server – the kitchen is accommodating within reason.
- Payments: Major credit cards are accepted (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, etc.). Do note they apply a small 3.7% service charge for credit/debit card transactions – this is increasingly common in Hawaii to offset bank fees. If you prefer, bring cash to avoid the surcharge. Tipping 18-20% for good service is customary and deserved here; large parties have gratuity added automatically.
- Takeout: La Spezia does offer takeout for dinner, subject to how busy they are. During the height of COVID-19 they did a robust takeout business. Currently, if you want to enjoy their food at home, it’s best to call early in the evening to place an order. They’ll give an estimated pickup time. The full menu is usually available to go (except maybe items like ice cream). There is no delivery service directly, but you could use local delivery companies if any serve Koloa (not widespread on Kauaʻi yet).
- Alcohol: Being a wine bar, alcohol is served and is a highlight of the experience. They have a full liquor license, so you can enjoy cocktails, beers, and of course wine. The wine list is extensive – if you’re not sure what to get, ask the staff; they are happy to recommend pairings. There’s no strict corkage info on their site, but typically if you brought your own special bottle, corkage fees in Hawaii range $20-30 (it’s best to call and ask ahead). For non-alcohol drinkers, they serve Italian sodas, espresso drinks, and other beverages as well.
- Atmosphere & Seating: All seating is indoor. If you have a preference (say, a quieter corner or a seat near the front door for more air), you can politely request it when making the reservation or upon arrival. They do their best to accommodate. There is a small bar area where you can sometimes dine if tables are full – a nice option for solo diners or couples who enjoy chatting with the bartender. Wheelchair access is straightforward: there are no steps to enter, and spacing is a bit tight but manageable; the staff will assist in moving chairs for access. Restrooms are single-person and located towards the back.
- When to Visit: La Spezia is popular with both tourists and locals. Weekends and any evening during high tourist season (Christmas/New Year, summer) will be busiest. If you prefer a quieter time, weekdays (Mon–Wed) or later in the evening (arriving around 8 pm) might find a more relaxed pace – but note that some items could sell out by then. Happy hour: There isn’t a traditional happy hour since they open at 5pm, but occasionally they might have early evening drink specials or prix-fixe wine dinner events (keep an eye on their social media or website news section for announcements of special events).
- Nearby: If you arrive early or have to wait, you can stroll the surrounding Old Koloa Town shops (many close by 5-6pm, though). An ice cream parlor and some boutiques are right nearby. After dinner, the area is quiet, but a short drive away in Poipu there are a few bars if you want a nightcap. Most people, however, linger at La Spezia over dessert and coffee if they want to extend the evening.
In conclusion, La Spezia offers a rich and authentic dining experience for Kauaʻi visitors. Its combination of Old World Italian charm and Hawaiian island hospitality makes it a unique gem on the south shore. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a comforting plate of pasta after a beach day, La Spezia delivers with warmth, flavor, and aloha. With this information in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy an in-depth visit to one of Kauaʻi’s most beloved restaurants – buon appetito e aloha!
Sources:
- Official website of La Spezia (location, hours, menu and gallery)
- Suite Paradise Kauai Dining Guide – La Spezia description
- The Garden Island newspaper feature on La Spezia (2014) – background, owner quotes, and dish descriptions
- MapQuest/Yelp summary and reviews – ambiance, menu highlights, and recent customer feedback
- TripAdvisor overview – ranking, pricing, and traveler ratings
- Yelp review highlights – customer sentiments on food, service, and atmosphere.
