July 25, 2025
A pre-dawn fire on Friday, July 25th, 2025, damaged the beloved Olympic Cafe on Kuhio Highway in downtown Kapaa, forcing an emergency response from several fire stations and prompting concern throughout the east side community and beyond.
According to the Kauai Fire Department (KFD) and the County of Kauai, the blaze was reported at around 3:45 a.m. and was first observed in the second-story portion of the structure. Fire units from the Kapaa, Kaiakea, and Lihue stations responded, along with personnel from the Fire Prevention Bureau and the on-duty Battalion Chief.
Firefighters arrived on scene by 3:50 a.m. and worked quickly to extinguish the fire. No injuries were reported and the scene was cleared at approximately 5:45 a.m.
According to fire officials, the blaze was contained to a single room and did not damage adjoining businesses. However, damage to the structure and contents are estimated at $369,000.
Fire Prevention Bureau investigators launched an on-site investigation later that morning and have since ruled the fire accidental. Specific details about the ignition source have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Founded in the late 1990s, the Olympic Cafe has become a staple of downtown Kapaa, known for its elevated open-air seating overlooking Kuhio Highway and its casual atmosphere frequented by both locals and visitors. Local residents enjoy saddling up to the cafe’s bar after a hard day of work. Tourists enjoy the island ambiance and hearty favorites such as banana macadamia pancakes.
As news of the fire spread on social media, many residents and longtime visitors to the island shared memories and concerns. The Olympic Cafe’s official Instagram account has not yet issued a statement.
