Hawaii offers more than just stunning beaches; it’s a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Forget the tourist traps and dive into the authentic flavors of the islands, from the ubiquitous poke bowl to the surprisingly versatile poi. This guide will walk you through must-try Hawaiian delicacies, offering a taste of the true Aloha spirit through its food.
Poke: More Than Just Raw Fish
Let’s start with poke (pronounced “poh-kay”), arguably Hawaii’s most well-known dish. But don’t let its popularity fool you; there’s a world of difference between the mass-produced poke found in mainland grocery stores and the fresh, vibrant poke you’ll find in Hawaii. The word poke simply means “to cut crosswise into pieces,” referring to the preparation of the fish. Traditionally, it’s made with aku (skipjack tuna) or ahi (yellowfin tuna), but you’ll also find variations with octopus (he’e), salmon (often called lomi lomi salmon when prepared in a specific way – more on that later), and even tofu.
The Poke Experience: Forget the fancy restaurants; head to local spots like Ono Seafood in Honolulu. This unassuming family-run shop is a legend for a reason. Expect a line, especially during lunch, but the wait is worth it. For around $15-20, you can get a generous serving of their classic ahi poke or spicy ahi poke. The key is the freshness of the fish and the simple, yet flavorful marinade – usually a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, onions, and seaweed. Another popular choice is Fresh Catch, with several locations on Oahu, and offering a wider variety of poke options, including cooked preparations, alongside more traditional styles.
Navigating the Poke Menu: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Most places offer samples, so you can try before you buy. Look for variations like shoyu poke (soy sauce-based), limu poke (with seaweed), and spicy poke (with chili peppers or a chili paste like gochujang). Also, consider the rice. Many places offer white rice, brown rice, or even sushi rice. The type of rice can significantly impact the overall taste.
A Word on Sustainability: With the increasing popularity of poke, it’s important to be mindful of sustainability. Opt for poke made with locally sourced fish and ask about the origin of the ingredients. Supporting restaurants that prioritize sustainable fishing practices helps ensure that future generations can enjoy this delicious dish.
Poi: The Staple Food with a Story
Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from cooked and mashed taro root (kalo). This starchy root is a significant part of Hawaiian culture and has been a staple food for centuries. Poi’s consistency can vary from a thick, doughy paste to a thinner, more liquid-like form. The taste is often described as slightly sour and earthy, and it is usually eaten alongside other dishes.
The Poi Experience: Finding authentic poi can be a bit more challenging than finding poke, but it’s well worth the effort. Waiahole Poi Factory on Oahu is a great place to start. They offer fresh poi made daily, along with other traditional Hawaiian dishes. Expect a slightly sour taste, which is normal. Poi ferments naturally, and the level of sourness depends on its age. It’s often eaten with kalua pig (more on that later!) or lau lau (meat wrapped in taro leaves and steamed). The combination of the savory, smoky meat with the slightly sour poi is a truly unique and satisfying experience. A plate lunch with poi, kalua pig, and lomi salmon (around $15-20) is a great way to try it. Alternatively, seek out a traditional luau, where poi is typically served as part of the feast.
Poi’s Cultural Significance: Poi is more than just food; it’s a symbol of Hawaiian culture. The taro plant is considered an ancestor of the Hawaiian people, and poi plays a vital role in traditional ceremonies and celebrations. Eating poi is a way to connect with Hawaiian history and culture. Don’t be surprised if a local cautions you about wasting poi; it’s a sign of disrespect in Hawaiian culture.
Tips for Trying Poi: Start with a small amount. The unique taste and texture can be an acquired taste. Try it with different foods to see what you like best. Some people enjoy it with fish, others with meat. Don’t be afraid to experiment! It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to eat it as soon as possible, which impacts the flavor. It’s often described as having one-finger, two-finger, or three-finger consistency, which refers to how many fingers are needed to scoop a manageable portion.
Kalua Pig: A Taste of Tradition
Kalua pig is another must-try Hawaiian delicacy. It’s made by slow-cooking a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu. The pig is seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt and then wrapped in banana leaves and buried in the imu, where it’s steamed for several hours. The result is incredibly tender, smoky, and flavorful pork.
The Kalua Pig Experience: The best way to experience kalua pig is at a traditional luau. Many luaus on Oahu offer this, such as the Germaine’s Luau (various price tiers depending on menu and seating). But again, venturing away from large tourist attractions can be rewarding. Smaller, family-run restaurants are the place to be. Look for establishments that use traditional imu ovens for an authentic taste.
The price of a luau varies depending on the location and the offerings. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per person for a luau experience. However, the experience is often comprehensive, including not just the food but also traditional Hawaiian music and dance.
Finding Kalua Pig Outside of Luaus: If you don’t have time for a luau, you can still find kalua pig at many local restaurants. Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Honolulu is a legendary spot known for its traditional Hawaiian dishes, including kalua pig. Be prepared for a wait, as it’s a popular place. A plate lunch with kalua pig, poi, and lomi salmon is a classic combination. Highway Inn Kaka’ako is another excellent option, offering a more modern and accessible dining experience while still serving authentic Hawaiian food.
What to Expect: Kalua pig is typically served shredded and tender, with a distinct smoky flavor. It’s often eaten with poi or rice. The simplicity of the dish is what makes it so special – the focus is on the quality of the pork and the traditional cooking method.
Lau Lau: A Pocket of Flavor
Lau lau is another traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of pork (or chicken or fish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. The taro leaves impart a unique earthy flavor to the meat, and the steaming process makes it incredibly tender and moist. It is a true Polynesian staple.
Experiencing Lau Lau: Like kalua pig, lau lau is often served at luaus and traditional Hawaiian restaurants. While some places serve it already unwrapped, it’s more authentic (and fun) to unwrap it yourself. Be careful, as the leaves can be hot! Ono Seafood, mentioned earlier for their poke, actually offers pork lau lau on specific days (it’s best to call ahead). Young’s Fish Market is another reliable place to try lau lau.
What to Expect: The taro leaves are typically not eaten, though they are edible. The focus is on the tender, flavorful meat inside. Lau lau is often served with poi or rice. The combination of the earthy taro leaves and the savory filling is a unique and satisfying flavor experience.
Lomi Lomi Salmon: A Cool and Refreshing Side Dish
Lomi lomi salmon is a refreshing side dish made with salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions. The ingredients are massaged (lomi lomi means “to massage”) together, creating a cool and flavorful salad. While there are many variations, those ingredients almost universally make up the basic recipe.
Trying Lomi Lomi Salmon: Lomi lomi salmon is often served as part of a plate lunch or at a luau. Almost any place serving kalua pig or lau lau will offer lomi lomi salmon; it’s a standard accompaniment. You can find it at places like Helena’s Hawaiian Food or Highway Inn.
The Taste and Texture: Lomi lomi salmon is a contrast to the heavier, richer dishes like kalua pig and lau lau. It’s cool, refreshing, and slightly salty. The combination of the salmon, tomatoes, and onions creates a bright and flavorful salad. It is an essential part of any truly traditional Hawaiian meal.
Manapua: A Sweet and Savory Treat
Manapua is a steamed bun filled with savory or sweet fillings. It’s a popular snack in Hawaii and is often compared to Chinese bao buns, from which it evolved as a cultural food fusion. The most common filling is char siu pork (barbecue pork), but you can also find manapua filled with vegetables, sweet bean paste, or even coconut.
Finding Manapua: You can find manapua at bakeries, dim sum restaurants, and even convenience stores throughout Hawaii. Char Hung Sut in Honolulu’s Chinatown is a landmark institution famous for its manapua and siu mai. Be prepared for a line, but it’s worth the wait. Royal Kitchen is another popular choice.
The Manapua Experience: Manapua is a convenient and affordable snack. It’s perfect for a quick bite on the go. The steamed bun is soft and fluffy, and the filling is flavorful and satisfying. Try different fillings to find your favorite!
Haupia: Coconut Cream Dessert
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert with a smooth, creamy texture and a delicate coconut flavor. It’s often served as a pudding or a cake.
Experiencing Haupia: Haupia is a common dessert at luaus and Hawaiian restaurants. You can also find it at bakeries and grocery stores. Ted’s Bakery on the North Shore of Oahu is famous for its chocolate haupia pie, which is a must-try. Note this is not necessarily authentic haupia, but a local favorite spinoff. You can also find more traditional haupia options at Highway Inn, showcasing the breadth of haupia’s influence on local desserts.
Variations on Haupia: Aside from the iconic chocolate haupia pie, you will find haupia used in a variety of desserts, like cream pies and puddings. It is a ubiquitous and extremely popular dessert on the islands, so it’s difficult to miss!
The Taste and Texture: Haupia is light, refreshing, and subtly sweet. It’s the perfect way to end a meal. The creamy texture and delicate coconut flavor make it a truly satisfying dessert.
Shave Ice: Not a Snow Cone
Shave ice (not “shaved ice”) is a beloved Hawaiian treat consisting of finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups. It’s similar to a snow cone, but the ice is much finer, resulting in a smoother, creamier texture. The syrups are also typically made with natural ingredients and flavors.
The Shave Ice Experience: Shave ice is everywhere in Hawaii, from roadside stands to dedicated shave ice shops. Matsumoto Shave Ice on the North Shore of Oahu is a legendary spot and a must-visit. Expect a long line, but the experience is worth it. They offer a wide variety of flavors, and you can customize your shave ice with toppings like mochi balls, azuki beans, and ice cream. Aoki’s Shave Ice, located just down the street from Matsumoto’s, is another highly-rated alternative that is often less crowded.
Choosing Your Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavor combinations. Some popular choices include strawberry, mango, pineapple, and passion fruit. Ask for a “snow cap” (sweetened condensed milk) on top for an extra touch of sweetness. You can often mix and match, so don’t be afraid to try multiple flavors.
It’s All About the Ice: The key to great shave ice is the quality of the ice. It should be shaved very finely, almost like powder. This creates a smoother, creamier texture than a snow cone. The best shave ice shops use special ice-shaving machines to achieve this texture.
Plate Lunches: A Complete Hawaiian Meal
Plate lunches are a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. They typically consist of two scoops of white rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and a main dish, such as kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or loco moco. Plate lunches are a convenient and affordable way to sample a variety of Hawaiian dishes.
Finding Plate Lunches: You can find plate lunches at local restaurants, food trucks, and even convenience stores throughout Hawaii. The prices typically range from $10 to $20. Many locations are cash only. Ask about the daily specials, as these can often be great value.
Creating Your Own Plate Lunch: The beauty of plate lunches is that you can customize them to your liking. Choose your favorite main dish and sides. Don’t be afraid to try something new! Most places will gladly substitute sides, and most offer brown rice as an alternative.
Don’t Forget the Mac Salad!: Macaroni salad is an essential part of any plate lunch. It’s typically made with macaroni, mayonnaise, celery, and onions. While versions vary, the key elements of the dish usually remain. Some people love it; some people hate it. It’s definitely worth trying! The mac salad is often sweet, which can be surprising for some visitors.
Other Culinary Delights to Explore
Beyond the dishes mentioned above, Hawaii has a wealth of other culinary delights to explore. Here are a few more suggestions:
- Saimin: A noodle soup similar to ramen, but with a distinctly Hawaiian flavor. It is commonly served at local restaurants and is commonly found in instant noodle form in every store.
- Loco Moco: A hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and gravy, served over rice. A great hangover cure (or a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner!)
- Huli Huli Chicken: Rotisserie chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. A very popular item at roadside fundraisers.
- Spam Musubi: A block of rice topped with a slice of grilled Spam, wrapped in nori seaweed. An iconic snack food.
- Malasadas: Portuguese donuts, often rolled in sugar or filled with cream. Leonard’s Bakery on Oahu is synonymous with malasadas.
- Pineapple: Of course! Fresh Hawaiian pineapple is incredibly sweet and juicy.
- Kona Coffee: Grown on the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes on the Big Island, Kona coffee is known for its rich flavor and smooth body.
- Guava Products: From guava jam to guava pastries, this tropical fruit lends itself well to a wide variety of applications.
FAQ
What is the best way to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine?
The best way to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine is to venture beyond the tourist traps and explore local restaurants and food trucks. Talk to locals and ask for their recommendations. Don’t be afraid to try new things!
Where can I find the most affordable Hawaiian food?
Plate lunches are generally the most affordable option. Food trucks and local restaurants often offer the best value. Watch out for tourist traps, where prices can be inflated.
What is the best time of year to visit Hawaii for food lovers?
Hawaii is a great destination for food lovers year-round. However, the fall months (September-November) often have fewer crowds and pleasant weather. It is best to check if the islands have festivals or special events related to local foods during your time of travel.
Is Hawaiian food spicy?
Most traditional Hawaiian food is not spicy. However, some dishes, like spicy poke, contain chili peppers or chili paste. Be sure to ask about the spice level before ordering.
What should I avoid eating in Hawaii?
There’s not much to avoid, but be mindful of portion sizes, especially with plate lunches. Also, be aware that some restaurants may use MSG in their food. If you have a sensitivity, be sure to ask.
What is a luau, and is it worth attending?
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast featuring kalua pig, lau lau, poi, lomi salmon, and other Hawaiian dishes, as well as entertainment like music and hula. While some luaus can be touristy, they can also be a great way to experience Hawaiian culture and food in one place. Consider reading reviews and comparing prices before booking.
References
- Ono Seafood (n.d.). Yelp Page
- Fresh Catch (n.d.). Website
- Waiahole Poi Factory (n.d.). Website.
- Germaine’s Luau (n.d.). Official Website
- Helena’s Hawaiian Food (n.d.). Website.
- Highway Inn Kaka’ako (n.d.). Website.
- Young’s Fish Market (n.d.). Website.
- Matsumoto Shave Ice (n.d.). Website.
- Aoki’s Shave Ice (n.d.). Website.
- Ted’s Bakery (n.d.). Website.
- Leonard’s Bakery (n.d.). Website.
- Char Hung Sut (n.d.). Yelp Page
- Royal Kitchen (n.d.). Yelp Page
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Hawaii and embark on a culinary adventure! Taste the freshness of poke, the cultural significance of poi, the smoky goodness of kalua pig, and the refreshing sweetness of shave ice. Explore the local restaurants, talk to the locals, and dive deep into the flavors of the islands. You won’t just be eating; you’ll be experiencing the Aloha spirit with every bite. E ‘ai kākou! (Let’s eat!)
