Crave – food & drink
Once again, I’m in search of the perfect fish taco—this time on the northeastern shore of Kauai. I sampled fish tacos from a health food market in Kapaa, a Mexican restaurant in Hanalei, and a fish market in Kilauea. But, so far, the best one I’ve tried is less than 2 blocks from where I’m staying. How lucky is that? It’s a Paco’s Tacos lunch wagon at 4460 Hookui Road in Kilauea, just off the Kuhio Highway at the corner of Kolo Road.
The ono is a tender, mild, meaty, white fish. It’s served in 2 corn tortillas and sprinkled with fresh, crisp cabbage, mild pico de gallo and a cilantro cream sauce. Although the fish is grilled rather than beer-battered, this is the closest I’ve found to a Baha-style fish taco in Kauai.
Paco’s Tacos fish tacos
I tried the small container of hot sauce they provided but found the spiciness overwhelmed the other flavors. My advice? Skip the hot sauce and stick with the lime wedge. The fish tacos are $5 each. When I went, they had a special of 3 for $12.50.
Not since my spring breaks in Rosarito Beach, Mexico have I had a fish taco stand this close to my vacation abode. Stoked!
Tip: You can even call ahead to place your order, 808-635-0873.
Paco’s Tacos sign
