There's comfort in comfort food. And on a trip far away from home, a home-style meal can be just what you need. Kountry Kitchen in Kauai's eastern coastal town of Kapa'a is the quintessential family-run breakfast joint, serving up traditional breakfast fare with a local twist.

The atmosphere is homey and casual, the portions are large and the service is friendly here. Located on the front street of Kapa'a, the ocean is directly across from the restaurant (so it's not quite an oceanfront eatery).

Loco moco — Photo courtesy of Jay del Corro

On weekends, you can't ignore the popularity of Kountry Kitchen, as you're likely to encounter a wait for a table. But put your name on the list and take a stroll down the street, since the restaurant is centrally located in the historic town of Kapa'a. You'll notice a blend of locals as well as visitors, a testament to the area's appeal across the board.

Although the menu boasts traditional breakfast dishes such as eggs, pancakes, potatoes and bacon, you'll find local dishes, too. Want a Hawaiian take on bacon and eggs? Try a plate of fresh, locally caught mahi mahi with eggs. Tired of potatoes as a side? Order up eggs and rice, or a loco moco, with eggs and gravy over a hamburger patty and rice.

Home-style breakfast gets the day started right. — Photo courtesy of Rob_rob2001