Tip Top Motel, Cafe, And Bakery

Oxtail, loco moco, and beef stew were really good! Some of the best food we have found on the island at very reasonable prices.

The hotel was pretty old and too expensive for the room condition, quality of accommodation and the amenities provided. It was liveable, but the AC was old and noisy. The restroom flush didn't work properly and sometimes got stuck. The windows aren't sealed, and hence lizards got in twice during a 4 night stay. When I told this at the counter during checkout, I was told that it's expected. Given the price I would expect a basic level of quality which is entirely missing.

Additionally the food is not very delicious, particularly lacking options for anyone who doesn't eat beef and pork.

Love this cafe! We first came here in 2019 and, based on the other reviews, ordered the banana macadamia nut pancakes and oxtail soup. Both are wonderful. In the pancakes, the banana slices and the nuts are cooked right into the batter; the banana makes the pancakes super moist with just the right touch of sweetness, while the nuts add a nice crunch. The soup, even the small size, comes with a generous portion of melt-in-your-mouth oxtail. It is a touch too salty for me, but I tend to prefer my food more lightly seasoned.

We were back in Kauai a few weeks ago for a friend's wedding. This time, we stayed at the motel, so we had two breakfasts at the cafe. The food is still just as good. We split the Tip Top Yokozuna Bento for one of our meals. It was tasty and - as advertised - a large amount of food, more than enough for two people.

The motel room was clean and functional and - the main draw - much more affordable than anything else we could find in the area. The check-in process was a little unusual. The front desk is only open from 2-2:30pm, so unless you can make that small window, you need to request an after-hours check-in. I also emailed ahead of time to confirm the room rate, at which point I was sent an invoice to pay upfront. (So what happens if you don't email them?) But everything went smoothly in the end. Just make sure you read your confirmation email so you know what to expect.

Finally, the cafe definitely gets busy. Go early if you don't want to wait.

Pros:
The location is close to the airport and within walking distance to food and Walmart.
Cons:
Termites or ants everywhere, uncomfortable beds, and can be very loud at times.

Amazing food, great service, food came out quick. Had leftovers for lunch. Doesn’t look like much from outside, but do not let looks deceive you.

Decent place to stay for a night after arriving in Kauai. It was actually one of the “cheaper” motels in Kauai. Rooms include fridge but no microwave nor stove. Have air conditioning. Not the most furnished or have the best aesthetics, but it was okay for the night. No elevators to the second floor. Have to take stairs. It was pretty bare bones but it was at least roomy and clean for couples. Smelled like chlorine when we first entered room. I would not mind staying for another night.

Very crowded if you go a little late. Lot of options for non-vegetarian folks and u get great pho has well here. We went for breakfast and everything was extremely reasonably priced too. Reach there sooner so that u need not wait for your turn. Service is quick too

Places like this are the equivalent of “small town American diners” for Hawaii. You come for the good food, local people, old school feel/history, and to experience the genuine character of the town. So much to learn about a place by their local eateries/cuisine.

People have so many expectations these days. So much so that it deters from the experience. Come with an empty stomach and open heart.

Food was great and company was wonderful. 🤙🏽

This is a neighborhood joint. There is nothing Instagrammable about it. The decor and presentation is bargain diner basic. BUT The macadamia nut pancakes are near perfection. The Loco Moco is stick-to-your-ribs delicious. The coffee is good. Next time I'll try the Oxtail Soup.

We ordered the oxtail soup and macadamia nut/banana/pineapple pancakes as suggested by the server and it was delicious. Definitely would get the pancakes again. The soup comes with plenty of meat as well