Gate area bar food and drinks from 10:00 a.m.
Stinger Ray's Tiki Bar and Lounge sits past security at Lihue Airport and runs daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., so it usually covers both lunch and most evening departures. It’s a full-service sit-down spot in an airport that doesn’t have many dining options, so this is the default if you want a real table and a proper drink before boarding.
The menu leans casual: think burgers, fries, basic bar plates, and island-style cocktails poured strong enough that one is probably enough before a short inter-island hop. Prices track typical Hawaii airport levels, so expect to pay more than in town for the same beer or plate, but you do get service at the table instead of standing in a long to-go line near the gates.
The bar opens at 10:00 a.m., which means early-morning flights won’t be able to grab a pre-flight drink here, but mid-day and evening travelers can camp out with a drink and watch the time. With closing at 9:00 p.m., don’t bank on it for very late departures; kitchen and last-call times can slide earlier on quiet nights.
Practical play: check your gate first, then budget at least 60 minutes before boarding if you want a sit-down meal here, since food and bar service can bunch up when multiple flights out of LIH depart around the same time.