Hawaii’s cuisine is so much more than just pineapple and fruity cocktails. It’s a rich tapestry woven from Polynesian traditions, immigrant influences, and the bounty of the islands themselves. From the familiar flavors of poke bowls to the more challenging (but rewarding!) experience of eating poi, diving into traditional Hawaiian foods is a culinary adventure you won’t regret. Get ready to ditch the tourist traps and explore the real taste of Hawaii!
Beyond the Poke Bowl: First Steps into Hawaiian Cuisine
Okay, let’s be honest, most people associate Hawaii with poke bowls, and for good reason. It’s delicious, readily available, and relatively inexpensive. You can find poke just about anywhere, from supermarkets to dedicated poke shops. Expect to pay anywhere from $12 to $20 for a generous serving, depending on the location and the type of fish (ahi, or yellowfin tuna, is the most popular). But don’t stop there! Consider poke the “gateway drug” to deeper exploration. Think of it as the starting point for your Hawaiian food journey. Use it to acclimate to the flavors of raw fish, seaweed, and sesame oil. Once you’re comfortable with poke, branching out becomes much easier.
Practical Tip: Try different variations. Ahi poke is a classic, but consider octopus (tako) poke or even a spicy mayo poke for a different experience. Explore the different limu (seaweed) used, as this significantly impacts the flavor profile.
Kalua Pig: The Star of the Luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a kalua pig. This isn’t just roasted pork; it’s an experience. Kalua pig is traditionally cooked in an imu, an underground oven. The pig is seasoned with Hawaiian salt and wrapped in ti leaves, then slowly roasted for hours (sometimes all day!) in this earth oven. The result? Incredibly tender, smoky, and flavorful pork that falls apart at the slightest touch. The taste is savory, earthy, and deeply satisfying. You’ll often find it served at luaus, which are traditional Hawaiian feasts.
Luau’s are tourist spectacles too, so do your research. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per person for a luau, and this will include the show! For a more authentic (and potentially less expensive) experience, look for smaller, local luaus or even just order kalua pig from a Hawaiian restaurant. Many local spots offer kalua pig plates for around $15-$20.
Practical Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations on where to find the best kalua pig. They’ll likely point you towards their favorite hole-in-the-wall places.
Lau Lau: A Flavor Bomb Wrapped in Ti Leaves
If you love kalua pig, you need to try lau lau. Lau lau typically consists of pork (sometimes chicken or fish) wrapped in lu’au (taro) leaves and then ti leaves, then steamed. The leaves impart a subtle, earthy flavor to the filling, and the steaming process makes everything incredibly tender and moist. Imagine a savory, melt-in-your-mouth bundle of deliciousness. The flavor is much milder than kalua pig, so it is a gentler experience.
Lau lau is often served with rice and poi, making it a complete and satisfying meal. You can find lau lau at many Hawaiian restaurants and plate lunch spots for around $10-$15. Look for places that specialize in Hawaiian food for a more authentic experience.
Practical Tip: Don’t eat the ti leaves! They are used to wrap the lau lau and aren’t meant to be consumed. The lu’au leaves however are edible and delicious!
Poi: The Staple Food That Divides Opinions
Poi. It’s a food that evokes strong reactions. Some people love it, some people hate it, and most people are somewhere in between. Poi is made from pounded taro root, which is then mixed with water to create a starchy, slightly sour paste. It’s a staple food in the Hawaiian diet and has been for centuries. The consistency can vary from thin and watery to thick and pasty, depending on how it’s prepared. It’s best to experience it with an open mind. Think of it like trying sushi for the first time – you might not love it immediately, but you’ll appreciate the cultural significance and the unique flavor profile.
The taste of poi is subtle and slightly tangy. Some people describe it as having a fermented or earthy flavor. It’s often eaten with other dishes, like kalua pig or lau lau, as it acts as a neutral base to balance out the richer flavors. Poi is graded depending on how many days old it is, from one-day-old poi (the sweetest) to three-day-old poi (the most sour). Poi is an acquired taste, and the texture can be off-putting for some. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t love it on your first try. Keep an open mind and try it with different dishes.
Practical Tip: Start with one-finger poi (the least sour) and eat it with a flavorful dish like kalua pig or lomi salmon to help balance the flavors. Don’t expect to love it immediately! It’s an experience that takes time to appreciate.
Lomi Salmon: A Refreshing Palate Cleanser
Lomi salmon is a light and refreshing dish that’s often served as a side dish at luaus and Hawaiian restaurants. It consists of salted salmon that’s been massaged (lomi means “to massage” in Hawaiian) with tomatoes, onions, and scallions. The result is a cool, tangy, and slightly salty salad that’s perfect for cleansing the palate between bites of richer dishes. Think of it as the Hawaiian version of a caprese salad, but with salmon instead of mozzarella. The saltiness of the salmon is balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the onions, making it a perfectly balanced dish.
Lomi salmon is relatively easy to find at most Hawaiian restaurants and plate lunch spots. A small serving will usually cost around $5-$8. It’s a great way to add some freshness to your meal and is a refreshing alternative to heavier dishes. It will usually be prepared when the salmon used is fresh!
Practical Tip: Lomi Salmon goes particularly well with poi and kalua pig. The acidity of the salmon cuts through the richness of the pork and the starchiness of the poi.
Haupia: Coconut Cream Heaven
Time for dessert! Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch. It’s a simple dish, but the result is a creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible coconut pudding. Haupia is often served in squares or layers, and it has a smooth, silky texture. The flavor is subtly sweet and intensely coconutty. You can find haupia at most luaus and Hawaiian restaurants. Also find it in bakeries as many use haupia as filling!
Haupia is often served with kalua pig or other heavy dishes to help balance the flavors. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for ending a Hawaiian meal. Haupia is a key ingredient in haupia pie, another popular dessert option that combines the creamy pudding with a flaky crust.
Practical Tip: Try haupia ice cream! It’s a refreshing twist on the classic dessert.
Manapua: A Steamed Bun with a Secret (Sweet or Savory)
Manapua is the Hawaiian adaptation of the Chinese char siu bao, a steamed bun filled with sweet and savory pork. However, in Hawaii, manapua can be filled with a variety of things, from kalua pig to sweet bean paste to even curry. The bun itself is soft and fluffy, and the filling is typically moist and flavorful. They’re available at many bakeries and convenience stores, often sold warm. Consider it the perfect on-the-go snack!
Manapua is a great example of the cultural melting pot that is Hawaiian cuisine. It’s a dish that’s been adapted and evolved over time to reflect the unique tastes and preferences of the islands. Manapua is incredibly cheap. You can usually find them for around $2-$4 each. It’s a great way to fill up without breaking the bank. Ask for a variety! Some stores steam manapua differently, using different bun recipes and even steam them in paper.
Practical Tip: Try a few different fillings to find your favorite. The classic char siu (sweet pork) is always a good starting point.
Plate Lunch: A Hawaiian Institution
The plate lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural institution in Hawaii. It typically consists of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a main dish, such as kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or beef stew. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for refueling after a day of surfing or hiking. The plate lunch is a direct reflection of the plantation era in Hawaii where immigrant workers would bring their lunches to work. The blend of cultures is directly represented in the plate lunch.
You can find plate lunches everywhere in Hawaii, from mom-and-pop shops to food trucks to even gas stations. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a plate lunch, depending on the location and the main dish. This is often the best and cheapest way to sample local flavors. It is a must-try for any visitor.
Practical Tip: Don’t be afraid to try different combinations. The beauty of the plate lunch is that you can customize it to your liking. Ask for extra gravy or try different sauces.
Loco Moco: The Ultimate Comfort Food
The Loco Moco is the ultimate Hawaiian comfort food. It typically consists of a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and gravy. It’s incredibly rich and satisfying that will keep you going for hours. It’s not meant to be fancy; it’s just a good, honest meal that will stick to your ribs.
The Loco Moco is said to have originated in Hilo, Hawaii, in the 1940s. The story goes that a group of teenagers asked a local restaurant to create a cheap and filling meal for them. The restaurant came up with the Loco Moco, and it quickly became a local favorite. There are tons of variations. Some places add chili, others add Portuguese sausage. Try a few different versions to find your favorite!
Practical Tip: Ask for extra gravy! It’s the best part of the Loco Moco.
Shave Ice: A Sweet and Refreshing Treat
No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying shave ice. It’s not shaved ice – it’s shave ice – the “d” is omitted. It’s fine ice that’s flavored with a variety of syrups, often made with real fruit juice. It’s incredibly refreshing on a hot day, and it’s a fun and colorful treat that everyone will enjoy. This is not the same as a snow cone. The ice is shaved to a very fine consistency so that it will absorb the flavor of the syrups applied.
Shave ice is available at countless shops all over Hawaii. Prices range from $3-$7 or more depending on the size and the toppings. Common toppings include ice cream, mochi balls, and azuki beans. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a day at the beach. The flavor options are nearly endless. From classic flavors like strawberry and pineapple to more exotic options like lilikoi (passion fruit) and guava, there’s something for everyone. Look for shops that use natural ingredients and homemade syrups for the best flavor!
Practical Tip: Get it with ice cream on the bottom for an extra indulgent treat!
Food Trucks: Treasure Troves of Local Cuisine
Don’t overlook the food trucks! Food trucks in Hawaii are often independently owned and operated eateries. Some have gone on to opening actual brick and mortar restaurants after gaining popularity through their trucks. These mobile kitchens offer a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Hawaiian to Filipino to Korean and beyond. They’re a great way to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank, and they are conveniently located throughout the islands. They’re also a great way to find local specialties that you won’t find in restaurants.
Food truck prices vary depending on the location and the type of food, but you can typically get a full meal for around $10-$15. Many food trucks specialize in plate lunches, but you can also find tacos, burgers, and other quick eats. Some prefer cash. Check review websites like Yelp to find highly-rated food trucks near you.
Practical Tip: Take note of the hours before you go; some food trucks have limited hours and may sell out of popular items quickly.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to find authentic Hawaiian food?
Ask locals for recommendations! They will often point you towards the best hole-in-the-wall places that tourists don’t know about. Also, look for restaurants that specialize in Hawaiian food and have been around for a long time.
Is it expensive to eat in Hawaii?
It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Eating at touristy restaurants can be very expensive, but there are plenty of affordable options, such as plate lunches, food trucks, and local diners. Also, consider buying groceries and cooking your own meals to save money.
What is the most important thing to remember when trying new Hawaiian foods?
Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to try new things! Hawaiian cuisine is incredibly diverse and there is something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before. Also, be respectful of the culture and traditions that are associated with the food.
What is a good starting point for exploring Hawaiian food?
Start with familiar dishes like poke and kalua pig, then branch out from there. Lomi salmon is also a good option for those who prefer lighter flavors. Poi is often difficult starting point for most people, so approach that without expectation. Be sure to ask questions too!
Where can I find luaus that aren’t overly touristy?
Look for smaller, local luaus that are advertised in community newspapers or online forums. You can also ask locals for recommendations. These luaus are often more authentic and less expensive than the larger, commercialized ones.
References
Although I have not included direct links within the text, the information provided is based on general knowledge and widely available resources regarding Hawaiian cuisine and culture. Specific statistical claims about prices and food availability have been based on online reviews and menu information found on websites like Yelp and TripAdvisor for local restaurants in Hawaii. The historical origins of dishes like Loco Moco were sourced from various food blogs and articles that document Hawaiian food history.
Ready to ditch the Waikiki tourist scene and embark on a real Hawaiian culinary adventure? Go beyond the poke bowl and into the kalua pig, the poi, the shave ice, and the plate lunch. Talk to the locals, wander off the beaten path, and eat where they eat. You will not be disappointed. Your taste buds (and your Instagram feed!) will thank you!
