Forget pricey resorts and fancy restaurants! You can experience the true taste of Hawaii without emptying your wallet. We’re diving deep into the local food scene to uncover the hidden gems and affordable eats that even kama’aina (local residents) rave about. Get ready for ono kine grinds (delicious food) that won’t break the bank!
Plate Lunches: The Cornerstone of Hawaiian Cuisine
If there’s one thing synonymous with Hawaiian food culture, it’s the plate lunch. It’s not just a meal; it’s an institution. Picture this: a generous serving of white rice (usually two scoops), a scoop of creamy macaroni salad, and your choice of protein. Sounds simple, right? But the flavors are anything but. Forget what you think you know about “macaroni salad” – Hawaiian mac salad is a whole different ball game, often slightly sweet and unbelievably satisfying. And the protein options? Kalua pig (slow-cooked, shredded pork), teriyaki beef, chicken katsu (crispy, breaded chicken), garlic shrimp… the list goes on! These hearty meals are perfect for fueling up before a day of surfing, hiking, or exploring.
Where to Find Them and How Much They Cost: Plate lunch spots are practically everywhere! Look for local eateries with names like “Aloha Kitchen,” “L&L Hawaiian Barbecue,” or even simple roadside stands. Prices generally range from $10 to $15, depending on the protein and the location.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue: This chain is a great starting point for understanding the plate lunch experience. With locations throughout the islands and even on the mainland, you can easily find them. Their menu is extensive, offering everything from the classic BBQ chicken plate to loco moco (more on that later!). Don’t be afraid to try something new – you might discover your next favorite dish! A plate lunch here will typically run you around $12-$15.
Rainbow Drive-In (Oahu): A local institution in Honolulu, Rainbow Drive-In is famous for its gravy-smothered plate lunches. Their “mix plate” is a popular choice, offering a taste of multiple proteins. It’s a no-frills, authentic experience that’s been feeding hungry customers for decades. Expect to pay around $10-$12.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Oahu): If you’re looking for a more traditional Hawaiian experience, Helena’s is a must-try. They specialize in authentic dishes like kalua pig, pipikaula (dried beef), and squid luau (squid cooked in taro leaves). Be prepared for long lines – Helena’s is incredibly popular with locals and tourists alike. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a plate lunch here, but it’s worth it for the authentic taste.
Pro Tip: Many plate lunch places offer smaller “mini” plates for a cheaper price. This is a great option if you’re not super hungry or want to try a few different dishes. Also, don’t be shy about asking for extra gravy! It’s practically a Hawaiian condiment.
Poke: A Taste of the Ocean
Poke (pronounced “poh-keh”) is another Hawaiian staple that’s gained popularity worldwide. It’s essentially raw, cubed fish (usually ahi tuna) marinated in various sauces and seasonings. It might sound intimidating if you’re not a raw fish eater, but trust me, it’s incredibly delicious and refreshing. The key is the freshness of the fish and the balance of flavors. Common additions include shoyu (soy sauce), sesame oil, seaweed, green onions, and chili flakes. Poke can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack.
Where to Find It and How Much It Costs: Poke can be found in supermarkets, fish markets, and dedicated poke shops. Prices vary depending on the type of fish and the location, but expect to pay around $12 to $18 per pound.
Foodland Supermarkets: Don’t underestimate the poke selection at Foodland! They’re surprisingly good and often offer a wide variety of flavors and types of fish. It’s a convenient and affordable option for a quick and delicious poke fix. The prices are generally very competitive.
Ono Seafood (Oahu): This tiny, family-run establishment is known for its super fresh and flavorful poke. They have a limited selection, but what they do, they do extremely well. Prepare for a wait, as Ono Seafood is very popular, but it’s worth it for the quality. Expect to pay around $15-$18 per pound.
Nico’s Pier 38 (Oahu): While Nico’s is mainly known for its fresh seafood plates, their poke is also excellent. They have a beautiful waterfront location and a wide selection of poke bowls and plates. The prices are slightly higher than Foodland, but the ambiance is worth it. Expect to pay around $16-$20 for a poke bowl.
Tips for Ordering Poke: Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample before you buy! Most poke shops will let you try a small spoonful to see if you like the flavor. Also, consider the rice – some places offer different types of rice, such as white, brown, or sushi rice. The rice can significantly impact the overall taste, so choose wisely. If you are hesitant to eat a lot of raw fish, consider a poke bowl to start; there are many choices outside of Ahi such as Shrimp, Octopus, and other cooked fish.
Shave Ice: The Perfect Sweet Treat
Shave ice is the quintessential Hawaiian dessert. It’s not just shaved ice; it’s an art form. Imagine a mountain of finely shaved ice, drenched in colorful, flavorful syrups, and topped with anything from azuki beans to mochi balls to a scoop of ice cream. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot Hawaiian day. Forget snow cones – shave ice is on a whole different level of deliciousness. The textures are smoother, the flavors are bolder, and the overall experience is just more… Hawaiian.
Where to Find It and How Much It Costs: Shave ice stands are ubiquitous throughout the islands. You’ll find them in tourist areas, shopping centers, and even small roadside stops. Prices range from $3 to $8, depending on the size and the toppings.
Matsumoto Shave Ice (Oahu): Located in the historic town of Haleiwa on the North Shore of Oahu, Matsumoto Shave Ice is a legendary institution. They’ve been serving up delicious shave ice since 1951 and are famous for their wide variety of flavors and toppings. Be prepared for a long line, but it’s well worth the wait! A shave ice here will cost you around $4-$6.
Aoki’s Shave Ice (Oahu): Just down the street from Matsumoto’s, Aoki’s is another popular shave ice spot in Haleiwa. Many locals swear by Aoki’s (some even consider it better than Matsumoto’s). They have a similar menu and prices, so it’s worth trying both and deciding for yourself which one you prefer.
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (Maui): If you happen to be on Maui, Ululani’s is a must-try. They use all-natural ingredients and offer a wide variety of unique and delicious flavor combinations. They have multiple locations throughout the island. Expect to pay around $5-$8 for a shave ice.
Tips on Flavors and Combinations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavor combinations! Some popular choices include rainbow (strawberry, banana, and pineapple), tropical (guava, passion fruit, and mango), and lilikoi (passion fruit). Also, consider adding a scoop of ice cream to the bottom of your shave ice – it’s a classic Hawaiian treat!
Manapua and Musubi: Grab-and-Go Goodness
These are your perfect budget-friendly snacks or light meals. Manapua is the Hawaiian version of a steamed or baked pork bun, similar to char siu bao in Chinese cuisine. Musubi, on the other hand, is a slice of grilled spam atop a block of rice, wrapped with nori (seaweed). Both are incredibly satisfying and can be found almost anywhere, from convenience stores to bakeries. They’re easy to eat on the go and will keep you energized for all your adventures.
Where to Find Them and How Much They Cost: You can find manapua and musubi in almost every convenience store, bakery, and local market on the islands. Prices are incredibly reasonable, usually ranging from $1 to $3 for musubi and $2 to $4 for manapua.
7-Eleven: Yes, even 7-Eleven in Hawaii boasts some surprisingly good musubi! It’s a quick, cheap, and convenient option, especially if you’re on the go. They often have different varieties, including spam, chicken, and even teriyaki.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume (Oahu): This little cafe in Waikiki is famous for its creative and delicious musubi. They offer a wide variety of fillings, from traditional spam to avocado to shrimp tempura. Be prepared for a line, as it’s a popular spot, but it’s worth the wait for the unique flavors. Expect to pay around $2-$4 per musubi. Note that this place is a sit-down restaurant, but takeout is available and may impact your budget.
Leonard’s Bakery (Oahu): While Leonard’s is most famous for its malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts), they also offer delicious baked manapua. It’s a great place to grab a quick and satisfying snack. Expect to pay around $3-$4 per manapua.
Pro Tip: Look for deals and specials on musubi and manapua. Many convenience stores offer discounts when you buy multiple items. Also, don’t be afraid to try different fillings – you might discover your new favorite combination! If you’re not a pork lover, you can also sometimes find chicken or veggie manapua options.
Malasadas: A Sweet Portuguese Treat
Malasadas are deep-fried Portuguese doughnuts, introduced to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants. They’re light, fluffy, and coated in sugar, making them an irresistible sweet treat. They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm, and they come in a variety of flavors, including plain, custard-filled, and chocolate-filled. These sugary clouds will be a highlight of your trip! They are a staple in Hawaiin dessert, you have to give it a try.
Where to Find Them and How Much They Cost: Malasadas can be found in bakeries and food trucks throughout the islands. Prices usually range from $1 to $3 per malasada.
Leonard’s Bakery (Oahu): This iconic bakery is the undisputed king of malasadas in Hawaii. They’ve been serving up these delicious treats since 1952 and are known for their consistently perfect malasadas. Be prepared for a line, especially during peak hours. Expect to pay around $1.50-$2.50 per malasada.
Punalu’u Bake Shop (Big Island): If you’re on the Big Island, Punalu’u Bake Shop is a must-visit for their malasadas. They come in a variety of flavors, including taro, guava, and chocolate. It’s a great place to stop for a sweet treat while exploring the island. The malasadas here are closer to $3 each.
Champion’s Malasadas (Oahu): A food truck in Honolulu that often has shorter lines than Leonard’s and equally delicious malasadas. They also offer unique flavors like matcha and ube. Expect to pay around $2-$3 per malasada.
Tips for Enjoying Malasadas: Eat them fresh and warm! Malasadas are best enjoyed right out of the fryer, when they’re at their fluffiest and most delicious. Don’t be afraid to get messy – the sugar coating is part of the fun! Consider buying a variety to share, especially if you’re visiting Leonard’s, so everyone can try different fillings.
Saimin: Hawaiian Noodle Soup
Saimin is a noodle soup dish that’s a blend of Hawaiian, Japanese, and Chinese culinary influences. It typically consists of soft egg noodles in a flavorful broth, topped with ingredients like char siu pork, kamaboko (fish cake), green onions, and seaweed. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a rainy day or a late-night craving. This is a local favorite, you will not be disappointed.
Where to Find It and How Much It Costs: Saimin can be found in many local restaurants and noodle shops throughout the islands. Prices range from $8 to $15, depending on the location and the toppings.
Hamura Saimin Stand (Kauai): This hole-in-the-wall eatery is a Kauai institution, known for its incredibly flavorful saimin and no-frills atmosphere. It’s a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Be prepared for a wait, but the saimin is worth it! Expect to pay around $8-$12.
Shiro’s Saimin Haven (Oahu): Shiro’s is a multi-location restaurant that specializes in saimin– they have a long history of serving up delicious saimin, and they have various toppings and soup additions that will keep you satisfied. They offer a wide variety of saimin variations, from the classic to more creative options. Expect to pay around $10-$15.
The Pig and the Lady (Oahu): While The Pig and the Lady is known for its modern Vietnamese cuisine, their saimin is also excellent. It’s a more upscale version of the dish, but it’s still relatively affordable and incredibly delicious. Expect to pay around $14-$16.
Tips for Eating Saimin: Don’t be afraid to slurp the noodles – it’s considered polite! Add some chili pepper water for an extra kick. And be sure to try the different toppings to find your favorite combination. Different saimin restaurants will have their own little twist on toppings, broth and noodle texture, so consider trying multiple venues for a good comparison.
Loco Moco: A Hearty Hawaiian Comfort Food
Loco Moco is the epitome of Hawaiian comfort food. It consists of a bed of white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy. It’s a simple but incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for a filling meal. It’s the ultimate indulgence and a must-try for anyone visiting Hawaii. A complete, high-energy dish.
Where to Find It and How Much It Costs: Loco Moco can be found in many local restaurants and diners throughout the islands. Prices range from $8 to $15, depending on the location and the quality of the ingredients.
Cafe 100 (Big Island): Located in Hilo on the Big Island, Cafe 100 is famous for its loco moco. They offer a wide variety of variations, including different types of meat, gravy, and toppings. It’s a no-frills diner with a loyal following. Expect to pay around $8-$12.
Zippy’s (Oahu): This local chain is a popular spot for loco moco. They offer a classic version as well as a few variations, including a chili loco moco. It’s a convenient and affordable option. Expect to pay around $10-$14.
Rainbow Drive-In (Oahu): As mentioned earlier, Rainbow Drive-In is a great place to get a loco moco. Their gravy is particularly delicious. Expect to pay around $9-$12.
Tips for Eating Loco Moco: Mix everything together and enjoy! The combination of rice, patty, egg, and gravy is what makes loco moco so delicious. Add some hot sauce for an extra kick. And don’t be afraid to make a mess – it’s part of the fun!
Fruits and Shave Ice from Roadside Stands
Hawaii’s tropical climate means fantastic, fresh fruit is abundant! From mangoes and pineapples to papayas and lilikoi (passion fruit), buying directly from roadside stands offers the best value and flavor. Furthermore, many of these stands also feature homemade shave ice, often at a better price point than the more well-known shave ice locations and can allow for you to have a quick and energizing snack for just a few bucks.
Where to Find Them and How Much They Cost: Keep an eye out for roadside stands while driving around the islands, especially in rural areas. Prices for fruit typically range from $1 to $5 per piece or container, while shave ice can be found for $3–$6.
North Shore, Oahu: The North Shore of Oahu is particularly renowned for its roadside stands. As you drive along Kamehameha Highway, especially in the area between Haleiwa and Kahuku, you will spot numerous stands stocked with fresh fruit, snacks, and, sometimes, shave ice.
Maui’s Road to Hana: As you traverse the scenic Hana Highway on Maui, take advantage of the many fruit stands scattered along the way. These stands offer fresh pineapple, banana bread, and other tropical treats that are perfect for enjoying while taking in the breathtaking views.
Big Island’s Farmers Markets: While not technically “roadside,” farmers’ markets on the Big Island, such as those in Hilo and Waimea, are an excellent place to find seasonal fruits directly from local farmers. Be sure to check out these markets for the freshest produce and unique Hawaiian fruits.
Tips for enjoying: Bring small bills to make transactions easier. Ask the vendor about the fruit—they often have tips on the best ways to eat it or interesting facts about the crop. Sample before buying whenever possible to ensure you’re getting the ripest, most flavorful fruit. Don’t be afraid to try fruits you’ve never had; this is a chance to expand your palate!
Embrace Happy Hour
Many restaurants, especially those in tourist hubs, offer generous Happy Hour deals, usually between around 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. These can include discounts on appetizers (pupus), drinks, and even sometimes entrees, allowing you to try more expensive cuisine at a fraction of the cost. This is a great strategy for sampling Hawaiian regional cuisine on a tightened travel budget.
Where to Find Them and How Much They Cost: Check local listings and restaurant websites for Happy Hour deals. Prices will vary, but usually expect 25-50% reduction on certain items.
Duke’s Waikiki (Oahu): Duke’s is an iconic restaurant on Waikiki Beach that has long been a destination, where visitors can take in the views while eating traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Their happy hour allows for a less expensive opportunity to enjoy this iconic venue and take in the amazing scene. Typically, happy hours are very busy, so stake claim to a seat when you can; it will be worth the wait.
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman: With locations on Maui and Oahu, Monkeypod Kitchen features handcrafted cocktails and locally sourced ingredients. Their happy hour is famous for discounted pizzas and appetizers. Be sure to arrive early, because all of the great prices brings in a great crowd of diners.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant (Oahu and Maui): Known for its relaxed atmosphere and island-inspired dishes, Tommy Bahama Restaurant offers a happy hour with specials on cocktails and light bites. It’s a great spot to unwind after shopping in Waikiki or exploring Maui.
Tips for Enjoying Happy Hour: Arrive early, as happy hour deals are popular and seating fills up quickly. Often restaurants require a customer to be at least 21 years old to enter during happy hours, so check your destination’s rules before committing. Be sure to ask the staff members exactly what items are discounted and discounted times, so that you get the best deal. Be sure to make reservations if you can, as these locations are often very trendy with tourists.
FAQ Section
What is the average daily budget for food in Hawaii?
This really depends on your eating habits! If you’re sticking to local eats and taking advantage of happy hours and cooking some meals, you can easily get by on $30-$50 per day. If you’re dining at fancier restaurants every night, expect to spend upwards of $100 per day.
Where can I find the cheapest food in Hawaii?
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and grocery stores like Foodland are your best bet for cheap eats like musubi, manapua, and poke. Also, look for food trucks and roadside stands, which often offer delicious and affordable options.
Are there any free activities in Hawaii that will help me save money for food??
Absolutely! Hawaii is full of free activities! Hiking, swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, visiting national parks, and attending local festivals are all great ways to enjoy the islands without spending a dime. Check out local events calendars for free concerts and performances.
Are there any apps or websites that offer discounts on food in Hawaii?
Yes! Check out Groupon, LivingSocial, and Yelp for deals on restaurants and activities. Many restaurants also offer discounts on their websites or through their loyalty programs.
What are some essential Hawaiian phrases to know when ordering food?
Here are a few useful phrases:
“Ono” – Delicious
“Mahalo” – Thank you
“Kaukau” – Food
“Grinds” – Food (slang)
“Da kine” – The kind (a versatile phrase used to refer to something when you don’t know the exact word)
What is the best food to eat on each island?
Oahu: Helena’s Hawaiian Food for authentic Hawaiian cuisine, Leonard’s Bakery for Malasadas, Musubi Cafe Iyasume for creative musubi.
Maui: Mama’s Fish House (splurge or a very special occasion), Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, Star Noodle for Asian-inspired dishes.
Kauai: Hamura Saimin Stand for iconic saimin, Pono Market for Hawaiian Plate Lunches, The Beach House Restaurant for sunset ocean views and upscale dining.
Big Island: Cafe 100 for loco moco variations, Punalu’u Bake Shop for sweet breads and malasadas, Merriman’s Waimea for farm-to-table cuisine.
Are there dining options that can also cater to vegetarian or non-meat eaters?
Yes! Hawaii has become very accommodating towards the diets of Vegetarian and Non-Meat Eaters. Most plate lunch stops have alternate options like tofu or a vegetarian-friendly curry with rice. Sushi and poke shops also have items with no meat, typically various types of seaweed or vegetables. Several locations, such as Downbeat Diner in Honolulu features all-vegan meals.
References
This article uses various references derived from personal experience in dining across all the islands and local insight. No official statistics were used at this time.
Ready to experience the real Hawaii, one delicious (and affordable) bite at a time? Ditch the tourist traps and dive into the local food scene. Follow these tips, explore the hidden gems, and discover your own favorite ono kine grinds. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you. Aloha and happy eating!
