AMA Restaurant, nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Hanalei, HI, is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for ramen enthusiasts. Drawing rave reviews from locals and visitors alike, the restaurant captivates with its delicious offerings and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Many patrons, like Richard Siao and Milky Luv, laud the friendly service and warm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both families and casual diners.
The menu, with standout items such as the Bao Buns, delicious Dan Dan noodles, and uniquely prepared Brussels sprouts, has garnered enthusiastic praise. Customers appreciated the generous portions, debunking any myths about small servings. The ramen selection is diverse, with each bowl reflecting rich flavors and attention to detail. From the tender beef in ramen bowls to the delightful homemade ube soda, diners agree – every dish is crafted with love.
Beyond the food, the ambiance at AMA Restaurant adds to its allure. Visitors enjoy casual outdoor seating with mesmerizing views, with many referring to it as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. As Gwen Gwen noted, the atmosphere complements the dishes, creating an overall enchanting dining experience. In essence, AMA Restaurant melds flavor, creativity, and stunning scenery, making it a culinary gem on Kauai.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Serves dine-in
No delivery
No takeaway
Highlights
Has fireplace
Serves great cocktails
Has live music
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves dinner
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually has a wait
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For AMA Restaurant
Richard Siao
Jun 17,2025
One of best in North Shore (deserving of higher rating) We hadn’t been here before (because of the rating) but we are now fans and one of our favorite spots. The staff was very friendly. We didn’t know you could make reservations (Yelp) so we were walk up on a Friday night. Although they were completely booked, they made accommodation for us and we got seated. The food is better. Our server was great. The atmosphere was very relaxing with gorgeous views of mountains in background. For food, the “Bao Buns” are must have. Grilled shrimp was very amazing with lots of flavor. The “Dan Dan” noodles was phenomenal. And we had their “Brussels spouts” which was best we’ve ever had. (Recommend adding some sliced steak strips and you’ll have a new top dish). We are definitely coming back.
Milky Luv
Jun 1,2025
Loved this restaurant and our meal here was one of the best we had on the island. I was a bit worried after reading some reviews that the food portions were small but whoever felt that way--I'm not sure what they're used to eating. We were all stuffed by the end. We tried almost all of the different Ramens between us and each one was delicious. Service was friendly and attentive and the wait for our food was quick. We had a reservation at opening so we were sat immediately. Food was reasonably priced and the atmosphere was nice. Hard to beat the beautiful mountain views while you dine.
Riley Carson
May 23,2025
Holy shit. When I say don't blow up the spot..... This is insane. Best ramen Ive had. Sick Jurassic park views. Drinks were top tier.
Gwen Gwen
May 20,2025
Nice outdoor location. Papaya salad was good with lots of crunchy bits, we had an assortment of nonalcoholic drinks (I had the strawberry cream soda) which were all quite good. But the star was the ramen! I had the beef, and it was so tender and flavorful. Great attention to detail with a perfectly cooked egg, crispy tofu, and all the right toppings.
Rosealey Wheel
May 2,2025
If you visit the island of Kauai you have to make a special trip to visit AMA in Hanalei. Every single thing I had there was amazing. I started off with a homemade ube soda and cream, the best brussel sprouts I’ve ever had and closed with their ahi ramen dishes and the entire meal was so satiating. I almost forgot to talk about the view since the food was so amazing, the view is literally out of this world. There’s nothing like being able to have an epic meal while watching a waterfall off the mountains of mama Kauai.
Jim O
Apr 22,2025
Incredible view of mountains and food. Lived the pork bao bun, curry satay bowl, tuna bowl and Dan Dan noodles. Outstanding taste without being spicy hot Same chef and building as Bar Acuda. 60 per person including beer and wine. Best view from high bar tables facing garden, flowering trees and mountains.
Tiffany Rupp
Mar 26,2025
2025: Service seemed a bit hurried. Sitting out on the main patio provides an incredible view of Mount Waialeale but the experience felt too hurried. The ahi ramen was still very good. Also Good news! The chef that crisped himself is not only okay but is an AMA legend. 2022: It's not just about the food, it's also the experience. Actually it's mostly the food. It is delicious the pork belly is better for flavoring the ramen but the ahi is quite an interesting mix. The dry ramen is fantastic. When we arrived we had no reservation but they told us it was possible we could get a table, though they weren't sure because the dishwasher was broken. Within 20 minutes they figured it out and seated us at the bar. It was a great place to sit for those who like to watch the action in the kitchen. Speaking of action, hope the chef who almost crisped himself is okay. That was a large flame.
Alyssa
Mar 22,2025
The ramen and drinks were so good! Loved their atmosphere too!
Reviews For AMA Restaurant