Notable: This spot really IS on the beach, literally within steps of the waves; half the fun here is people-watching from the open-air dining room. Tri-Star Restaurant Group’s Aaron Placourakis made a smart choice when he brought George Gomes Jr. on board as corporate chef; formerly of the A Pacific Cafe group, Gomes has built a menu of bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Menu: A recent lunch tells the story: sun glistening on the blue water, a refreshing chilled Kahua Tomato Gazpacho poured into a bowl at the table and garnished with avocado, langostino (prawns) and garlicky crostini, served with a glass of well-chosen sauvignon blanc and some friendly chit-chat with the waiter. Dinner choices include variations on Italian themes such as Lobster Cannelloni and Swordfish Saltimbocca.

FYI: 2980 S. Kihei Road, Kihei; (808) 875-7555. 5:30-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays, 5:30-10:30 Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations recommended. VS, MC, AX, DC, DS. No checks. $$$.

Notable: The menu declares that this is the “Home of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine” and it’s true. Merriman was among the earliest and continues to be among the most diligent of the Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine chefs in pursuing the best, the freshest and the most varied local ingredients and the champion farmers and other food producers.

Menu: The flavors here are always fresh and pure, uncluttered by fussy sauces or overly layered preparations. Start with Waimea Corn, Macadamia Nut and Shrimp Fritters, enjoy the award-winning Vine-Ripened Lokelani Tomatoes with Maui Onions and just a drizzle of olive oil, then choose Kahua Ranch beef or lamb or a Mixed Plate of Mahi Mahi Sesame Crusted, Kung Pao Fresh Island Shrimp and Wok-Charred ‘Ahi. Merriman’s Platters allow you to select tasting portions of two entrees.

FYI: 65-1227 Opelo Road, Waimea; (808) 885-6822. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Mondays-

Fridays (closed for lunch Saturdays and Sundays), dinner 5:30-9 p.m. daily. Reservations recommended. VS, MC, AX. Checks accepted. $$$.

The Beach House • Best Kaua'i Restaurant

Notable: An unforgettable view of Poipu Beach, Neighbor-Island-style friendliness and reliably delicious food are hallmarks here. The new chef here — Linda Yamada has departed to teach full-time at Leeward Community College — is Scott Lutey, formerly of the Sheraton Kaua‘i and the Napili Kai Beach Club on Maui.

Menu: Take the tastes we love, the products we grow and the skill of a well-trained kitchen and you come up with dishes like Lemongrass and Kaffir Lime-Crusted Sea Scallops, Hoisin Beef Wontons, Mint Coriander Marinated Lamb Rack, Kahlua Taro Cheesecake. Lutey will put his imprint on the menu but continue the theme of Island dishes with an Eastern flair.

FYI: 5022 Lawa‘i Road, Kaloa, Poipu (808) 742-1424. 5:30-10 p.m. daily Sept. 16-April 15 (6-10 p.m. daily, April 16-Sept. 15). Reservations recommended. VS, MC, AX, DC. No checks. $$$.