Embarking on a culinary adventure in Hawaii means indulging in a diverse tapestry of flavors shaped by Polynesian, Asian, and Western influences. This ultimate food bucket list showcases 20 must-try dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in the Aloha spirit. Prepare your palate for a journey through savory, sweet, and uniquely Hawaiian experiences that you won’t soon forget.
Poke: A Hawaiian Staple
Let’s kick things off with poke (pronounced poh-kay), a dish that epitomizes Hawaiian cuisine. At its core, poke is diced raw fish, typically ahi (yellowfin tuna), marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, and onions. The flavors are simple yet incredibly satisfying, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine through. Finding great poke is an adventure in itself! Every local seems to have their favorite spot. For example, Ono Seafood in Honolulu is renowned for its authentic and simple poke, consistently earning rave reviews. Be prepared for a line, especially during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a generous portion. Try their spicy ahi poke for an extra kick, or their limu (seaweed) poke if you want something distinctly Hawaiian. Another great option is Fresh Catch, which has multiple locations across Oahu. They offer a wide variety of poke flavors, from traditional to more modern interpretations, and are a bit less likely to have a long line. Don’t be afraid to explore different poke shops; half the fun is discovering your own personal favorite.
Kalua Pig: An Underground Oven Feast
Kalua pig is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural experience. Traditionally, a whole pig is slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pig is wrapped in ti leaves and buried with hot rocks, where it steams for hours until the meat is incredibly tender and smoky. This process imparts a unique flavor that can’t be replicated in a conventional oven. If you’re lucky enough to attend a luau, kalua pig will undoubtedly be the star of the show. Many restaurants also offer kalua pig plates, often served with rice and poi (more on that later). Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Honolulu is famous for its authentic kalua pig, prepared in a traditional style. The smoky flavor is intense, and the meat practically melts in your mouth. Be aware that Helena’s is incredibly popular and only open for lunch, so plan accordingly. A plate of kalua pig will cost you around $15-$20. Another option, especially if you’re short on time, is to grab a kalua pig sandwich from a local deli or food truck. While it won’t be quite the same as the imu-cooked version, it’s still a delicious way to sample this iconic dish.
Loco Moco: A Comfort Food Classic
Loco Moco is the epitome of Hawaiian comfort food. Imagine this: a bed of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in brown gravy. It’s a simple dish, but the combination of flavors and textures is incredibly satisfying. Loco Moco is a popular breakfast and lunch option, and you can find it at almost any local diner or plate lunch restaurant. Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu is a legendary spot for loco moco, offering a classic version that has been satisfying customers for decades. The gravy is rich and flavorful, and the hamburger patty is cooked perfectly. A loco moco at Rainbow Drive-In will set you back around $10-$12. Many variations of loco moco exist, with some restaurants adding onions, mushrooms, or even chili to the gravy. Don’t be afraid to try different versions to find your perfect Loco Moco experience. After a long day of surfing or hiking, there’s nothing quite like a hearty Loco Moco to refuel.
Poi: A Polynesian Staple
Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from taro root. The taro root is steamed and pounded into a smooth, starchy paste, which can range in consistency from thick to thin. Poi is often eaten with kalua pig or other savory dishes, acting as a neutral base that complements the rich flavors. It has a slightly sour, fermented taste that can be an acquired taste for some. Experiencing poi is essential for understanding Hawaiian culture. Waiahole Poi Factory on Oahu is a great place to try poi, as they prepare it fresh daily using traditional methods. They also offer cultural demonstrations, allowing you to learn about the history and significance of poi. A small bowl of poi will cost you around $5-$8. It’s important to note that poi can taste different depending on its age. Fresh poi is typically sweeter and smoother, while older poi becomes more sour and tangy. Locals often refer to poi by its age, such as “one-day poi” or “three-day poi.” Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the age of the poi before you order it.
Plate Lunch: The Quintessential Hawaiian Meal
The plate lunch is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, a no-frills meal that embodies the spirit of “ono grinds” (delicious food). Typically, a plate lunch consists of two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad, and a main dish, such as kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or fried fish. It’s a hearty and affordable meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Plate lunches are ubiquitous in Hawaii, with countless restaurants, food trucks, and even gas stations offering their own versions. To get a sense of the varieties available, check out Zippy’s, a local chain with multiple locations across the islands. Their plate lunches are a great value and offer a wide range of options, including Korean fried chicken, chili, and even a vegetarian plate. A plate lunch at Zippy’s will cost you around $10-$15. The macaroni salad is a key component of the plate lunch, typically made with mayonnaise, elbow macaroni, and sometimes vegetables like carrots or celery. Every plate lunch spot has its own secret recipe for macaroni salad, so be sure to try different versions to find your favorite. Don’t underestimate the power of a good plate lunch; it’s a true taste of Hawaii.
Manapua: A Steamed Bun Delight
Manapua is a steamed bun filled with char siu pork (barbecue pork). It’s a popular snack or light meal, often enjoyed on the go. Manapua is similar to the Chinese bao, reflecting the influence of Chinese immigrants on Hawaiian cuisine. You can find manapua at most local bakeries and convenience stores. For a taste of fresh, homemade manapua, try Royal Kitchen in Honolulu’s Chinatown. Their manapua is known for its soft, fluffy bun and its flavorful char siu filling. A manapua at Royal Kitchen will cost you around $3-$5. Manapua comes in different variations, including baked manapua, which has a golden-brown crust and a slightly different texture. Some bakeries also offer manapua with other fillings, such as chicken, vegetables, or even sweet bean paste. Manapua is a convenient and delicious snack that’s perfect for satisfying your hunger between meals.
Haupia: A Coconut Cream Dessert
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert with a smooth, creamy texture and a delicate coconut flavor. Haupia is often served in small squares or cubes, and it’s a popular addition to luaus and other Hawaiian celebrations. Ted’s Bakery on Oahu’s North Shore is famous for its chocolate haupia pie. It’s a layered pie with a chocolate crust, a chocolate filling, and a layer of haupia on top. It’s a decadent and delicious dessert that’s well worth the drive to the North Shore. A slice of chocolate haupia pie at Ted’s Bakery will cost you around $5-$7. Haupia can also be used as an ingredient in other desserts, such as haupia ice cream or haupia pudding. The coconut flavor complements a wide range of ingredients, making haupia a versatile and beloved dessert ingredient.
Saimin: A Noodle Soup Sensation
Saimin is a noodle soup that’s a local favorite in Hawaii. It features soft egg noodles in a flavorful broth, typically garnished with green onions, kamaboko (fish cake), and char siu pork. Saimin reflects the blending of Asian cultures in Hawaii, combining elements of Japanese ramen, Chinese noodles, and Filipino pancit. Shige’s Saimin Stand in Wahiawa on Oahu is a legendary spot for saimin, serving up bowls of steaming noodles since 1933. Their broth is rich and savory, and the noodles are cooked perfectly. A bowl of saimin at Shige’s Saimin Stand will cost you around $8-$12. Many variations of saimin exist, with some restaurants adding wontons, shrimp, or even Spam to the soup. Don’t be afraid to customize your saimin with your favorite toppings. Saimin is a comforting and affordable meal that’s perfect for a rainy day or a late-night snack.
Shave Ice: A Sweet Icy Treat
Shave ice is a quintessential Hawaiian treat, perfect for cooling down on a hot day. Finely shaved ice is topped with flavored syrups, creating a colorful and refreshing dessert. It’s important to note that it’s “shave ice,” not “shaved ice”! The texture is key – it should be light and fluffy, almost like snow. Matsumoto Shave Ice in Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore is arguably the most famous shave ice spot in Hawaii, attracting visitors from all over the world. They offer a wide variety of flavors, from traditional fruit flavors to more unique options like li hing mui (preserved plum) and azuki bean. A shave ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice will cost you around $3-$5. For an extra treat, add a scoop of ice cream or azuki beans to the bottom of your shave ice. This creates a delicious and creamy base that complements the icy flavors. Be prepared for a line at Matsumoto Shave Ice, especially during peak hours, but it’s worth the wait for this iconic Hawaiian treat.
Malasadas: A Portuguese Pastry Delight
Malasadas are Portuguese doughnuts that have become a beloved treat in Hawaii. These yeast-raised doughnuts are fried until golden brown and then coated in sugar. They’re best eaten fresh and warm, when they’re soft and fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Leonard’s Bakery in Honolulu is the undisputed king of malasadas in Hawaii, drawing long lines of customers eager for a taste of their famous treats. They offer a variety of malasadas, including the original plain malasada, as well as filled malasadas with flavors like haupia, chocolate, and custard. A malasada at Leonard’s Bakery will cost you around $1-$2. Leonard’s also offers “malasada puffs,” which are smaller, bite-sized versions of their classic malasadas. These are perfect for sharing or for trying a variety of flavors. Don’t leave Hawaii without trying a malasada from Leonard’s Bakery; it’s a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Garlic Shrimp: A North Shore Specialty
Garlic shrimp is a must-try dish when visiting Oahu’s North Shore. Fresh shrimp is sautéed with garlic, butter, and other seasonings, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. The shrimp is typically served with rice and a side of vegetables. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on the North Shore is a legendary spot for garlic shrimp, known for its incredibly flavorful and garlicky shrimp scampi. The shrimp is cooked to perfection, and the garlic sauce is simply irresistible. A plate of garlic shrimp at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck will cost you around $15-$20. Be prepared for a wait at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, as it’s a very popular spot. However, the line moves quickly, and the garlic shrimp is well worth the wait. Don’t forget to grab some extra napkins, as things can get messy! There are numerous shrimp trucks along the North Shore, each with its own variation on the garlic shrimp recipe. Try a few different trucks to find your favorite.
Lomi Salmon: A Refreshing Salad
Lomi salmon is a traditional Hawaiian side dish made with salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions. The ingredients are mixed together and gently massaged (“lomi” means to massage), creating a refreshing and flavorful salad. Lomi salmon is often served with kalua pig and poi, providing a balance of flavors and textures. You can find lomi salmon at most luaus and Hawaiian restaurants. Helena’s Hawaiian Food (mentioned earlier for their kalua pig) also serves a fantastic lomi salmon that complements their other traditional dishes. A small order of lomi salmon will cost you around $5-$8. The quality of the salmon is key to a good lomi salmon. Look for sustainably sourced, high-quality salmon that is not overly salty. Lomi salmon is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a hot day.
Chicken Long Rice: A Noodle and Chicken Stew
Chicken long rice is a comforting and flavorful dish made with cellophane noodles (also known as glass noodles), chicken, ginger, and chicken broth. The noodles are long and thin, adding a unique texture to the stew. Chicken long rice is a popular dish at potlucks and family gatherings in Hawaii. You can often find it on buffet tables at luaus. Look for it in more casual Hawaiian restaurants. The best is often homemade! It’s a relatively inexpensive dish, so expect to pay in the neighborhood of $8-$12 for a hearty serving. The ginger adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish, and the chicken broth provides a rich and savory base. Some variations of chicken long rice include the addition of mushrooms or green onions.
Huli Huli Chicken: Grilled Chicken with a Sweet Glaze
Huli Huli chicken is grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The chicken is typically grilled on a rotisserie, allowing it to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown skin. “Huli” means to turn, referring to the process of flipping the chicken while it’s grilling. Huli Huli chicken is often sold at roadside stands and farmers markets, especially on weekends. The aroma of grilling chicken is hard to resist! Keep your eye out – often you can find stands by driving around the island. Expect to pay about $10-$15 for a half-chicken, a common serving size. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar, creating a sweet and savory flavor that is uniquely Hawaiian.
Laulau: Pork or Fish Steamed in Taro Leaves
Laulau is a traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of pork or fish (typically butterfish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. The taro leaves impart a subtle earthy flavor to the meat or fish, and the steaming process makes it incredibly tender and moist. Laulau is another dish that’s often served at luaus and Hawaiian restaurants. Like Kalua pig, it’s an integral part of a traditional Hawaiian feast. Helena’s Hawaiian Food, of course, will also have Laulau. Expect to pay a little bit more than some of the other staples; around $18-$25, depending where you are. The taro leaves are edible, but some people prefer to discard them after eating the meat or fish. Laulau is a filling and flavorful dish that’s a true taste of Hawaiian culture.
Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Treats: A Tangy and Tropical Delight
Lilikoi, or passion fruit, is a tropical fruit with a tart and tangy flavor that is widely used in Hawaiian cuisine. Lilikoi is often used to make juice, jams, and desserts. Lilikoi pie is a popular dessert, with a creamy filling and a tangy topping. You can find lilikoi treats at many bakeries and cafes throughout Hawaii. Maui Pie, with locations on indeed the island of Maui, is particularly known for its Lilikoi pies, which showcase the fruit’s vibrant flavor. A slice would cost you around $6-$8. Lilikoi cheesecake is another popular option in many establishments on the islands as well. Lilikoi is a versatile fruit that adds a bright and refreshing flavor to any dish.
Hawaiian Sweet Bread: A Soft and Slightly Sweet Loaf
Hawaiian sweet bread is a soft and slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply eating on its own. The bread is made with eggs, milk, and sugar, giving it a rich and tender texture. King’s Hawaiian is the most well-known brand of Hawaiian sweet bread, and their rolls can be found in supermarkets throughout the United States. However, for a truly authentic experience, try to find Hawaiian sweet bread from a local bakery. It truly makes a difference. The flavor profile also matches perfectly with Kalua Pig, whether the sweet roll form or in a sandwich. It’s an excellent pairing that shouldn’t be missed. Hawaiian sweet bread is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many ways.
Spam Musubi: A Unique Island Snack
Spam musubi is a popular snack in Hawaii consisting of a slice of grilled Spam, topped with rice and wrapped in nori seaweed. It’s a simple and convenient snack that’s often sold at convenience stores and gas stations. Spam musubi reflects the influence of Japanese cuisine on Hawaiian culture. Many locals have fond memories of eating Spam musubi as children. Musubi Cafe Iyasume in Honolulu is a popular spot for Spam musubi, offering a wide variety of flavors and variations. A Spam musubi at Musubi Cafe Iyasume will cost you around $2-$4. While it may seem unusual to some, Spam musubi is a classic Hawaiian snack that’s worth trying. It is an iconic Hawaiian food that can provide an appreciation for the cultural diversity in the islands.
Butter Mochi: A Chewy and Sweet Treat
Butter mochi is a chewy and sweet dessert made with glutinous rice flour, butter, sugar, and coconut milk. It has a unique texture that’s both chewy and gooey, and it’s often flavored with vanilla or coconut. Butter mochi is a popular dessert at potlucks and family gatherings in Hawaii. It is often found at bake sales and school events. Although common to find, it’s hard to find a spot that carries it everyday. A possible recommendation is the Punahou Carnival where Butter Mochi is sold at the bake sale. It will be a great opportunity to experience it! Butter mochi is a relatively easy dessert to make at home, and there are many recipes available online. However, for a truly authentic experience, try to find butter mochi from a local bakery or homemade version. It’s a delicious and unique dessert that’s a true taste of Hawaii.
Kulolo: A Steamed Taro Pudding
Kulolo is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from grated taro, coconut milk, and sugar. The mixture is steamed in an underground oven (imu) or in a regular oven until it becomes a firm and slightly sticky pudding. Kulolo can be found at luaus, Hawaiian cultural events, and specialty stores that sell Hawaiian foods. Buying it from the store may be found frozen. You can even make it from home! The dark color of kulolo comes from the natural sugars in the taro as it cooks. The texture is dense and slightly chewy. The flavor is a blend of sweet, earthy, and coconut. For the best taste and texture, kulolo should be eaten fresh or shortly after it’s made.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to find authentic Hawaiian food?
The best way to find authentic Hawaiian food is to venture beyond the tourist traps and seek out local eateries. Ask locals for their recommendations, explore neighborhood restaurants, and visit farmers markets. Look for restaurants that use traditional Hawaiian ingredients and cooking methods. Reading online reviews from locals can also be a helpful resource.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Hawaiian cuisine?
While Hawaiian cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available. Poi is naturally vegan, and many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of plate lunches with tofu or vegetables as the main dish. Look for dishes that feature fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits. Some restaurants may also be willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What is a luau, and is it worth attending?
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast and celebration, typically featuring kalua pig, poi, lomi salmon, and other Hawaiian dishes, as well as music, hula dancing, and cultural demonstrations. Attending a luau is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture and cuisine in a festive and immersive setting. While luaus can be expensive, they are often worth the cost for the experience.
How much should I budget for food in Hawaii?
The cost of food in Hawaii can vary depending on your dining preferences and budget. You can eat affordably by visiting local plate lunch restaurants and food trucks, or you can splurge on fine dining experiences. On average, you should budget around $50-$100 per day for food, depending on your spending habits.
What are some good food tours to take in Hawaii?
Several food tours are available in Hawaii that can provide a curated culinary experience. These tours often take you to local eateries and farmers markets, allowing you to sample a variety of Hawaiian dishes and learn about the history and culture behind the food. Research different food tours and choose one that fits your interests and budget.
What are some tips for eating like a local in Hawaii?
To eat like a local in Hawaii, embrace the plate lunch, try poke from various shops, don’t be afraid to try things you’ve never had before, and be friendly with the staff – it usually brings the best advice and the most rewarding local experience.
References
Ono Seafood Website.
Fresh Catch Website.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food Website.
Rainbow Drive-In Website.
Waiahole Poi Factory Website.
Zippy’s Website.
Royal Kitchen Yelp Page.
Ted’s Bakery Website.
Shige’s Saimin Stand Yelp Page.
Matsumoto Shave Ice Website.
Leonard’s Bakery Website.
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck Facebook Page.
Maui Pie Website.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume Website.
Punahou Carnival Website.
Ready to savor these 20 incredible Hawaiian dishes? Don’t just dream about it—plan your culinary escape to the islands today! Book your flight, research local eateries, and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure. The flavors of Hawaii are waiting to be discovered. Start planning your trip now and create your own ultimate Hawaiian food memories!
