When visiting Hawaii, you should try the unique fusion of traditional Hawaiian, Asian, and American cuisines, which offers a diverse range of dishes, from Poke and Laulau to Loco Moco and Shave Ice.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Hawaii's cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with influences from Native Hawaiian, Asian, American, and European traditions. The islands' unique location and history have created a distinct food culture that is both familiar and exotic. Hawaiian cuisine often features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and locally grown produce, such as pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts. The cuisine is also characterized by the use of traditional Hawaiian ingredients, such as poi (made from taro) and kalua pig (slow-cooked in an underground oven).
The different islands in Hawaii have their own unique food cultures, with Oahu being the most cosmopolitan and influenced by international cuisines. The Big Island, on the other hand, is known for its traditional Hawaiian cuisine, while Maui and Kauai have a more laid-back, farm-to-table approach to food. The cuisine in Hawaii is also shaped by the state's cultural events and festivals, such as the Honolulu Festival, which showcases Hawaiian and international cuisine.
Hawaii's food culture is not just about the food itself, but also about the way it is prepared and shared. Traditional Hawaiian cuisine often involves cooking in an imu (underground oven) or kalua (steaming in a pit). The cuisine is also deeply rooted in the concept of ohana (family), with food playing a central role in bringing people together. Whether it's a traditional Hawaiian luau or a casual gathering at a local eatery, food is an integral part of Hawaiian culture and hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poke | Appetizer | Raw fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorings | Local restaurants and fish markets |
| Laulau | Main Course | Steamed pork, beef, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves | Traditional Hawaiian restaurants |
| Loco Moco | Main Course | Hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy over rice | Local diners and restaurants |
| Shave Ice | Dessert | Shaved ice flavored with various syrups | Street vendors and dessert shops |
| Kalua Pig | Main Course | Slow-cooked pork in an underground oven | Traditional Hawaiian restaurants and luaus |
| Haupia | Dessert | Coconut milk dessert similar to pudding | Local restaurants and dessert shops |
| SPAM Musubi | Snack | Grilled SPAM sushi roll | Convenience stores and snack shops |
| Malasadas | Dessert | Portuguese-style doughnuts | Local bakeries and dessert shops |
| Lau Lau | Main Course | Steamed fish or meat wrapped in taro leaves | Traditional Hawaiian restaurants |
| Huli Huli Chicken | Main Course | Grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce | Local restaurants and food trucks |
Street Food & Snacks
- Shave Ice: a sweet treat made from shaved ice and flavored syrups, typically $3-$5
- Poke Bowls: a bowl filled with raw fish, rice, and vegetables, typically $10-$15
- Loco Moco: a classic Hawaiian dish made with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy over rice, typically $8-$12
- Malasadas: Portuguese-style doughnuts, typically $2-$5
- SPAM Musubi: a grilled SPAM sushi roll, typically $3-$5
- Coconut Shrimp: shrimp coated in coconut flakes and fried, typically $10-$15
- Huli Huli Chicken: grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, typically $8-$12
- Laulau: steamed pork, beef, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves, typically $10-$15
Drinks
- Pineapple Juice: fresh pineapple juice, typically $3-$5
- Coconut Water: refreshing and hydrating coconut water, typically $2-$4
- Mai Tai: a classic Hawaiian cocktail made with rum, lime juice, and orgeat syrup, typically $10-$15
- Lava Flow: a tropical cocktail made with strawberry puree, pineapple juice, and coconut cream, typically $10-$15
- Kona Coffee: locally grown coffee, typically $2-$5
- Hawaiian Beer: local beer, such as Maui Brewing Co. or Kona Brewing Co., typically $5-$10
Dining Customs
- Tipping: 15-20% of the total bill is expected
- Reservation: reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak season
- Dress Code: casual attire is acceptable, but some restaurants may have a dress code
- Eating Etiquette: it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin
- Food Sharing: sharing food is a common practice in Hawaiian culture, especially at traditional luaus
- Gratitude: expressing gratitude for the food and the company is an important part of Hawaiian dining customs
Where to Eat
- Local Restaurants: try traditional Hawaiian cuisine at local eateries, such as Helena's Hawaiian Food or Ono Seafood
- Food Courts: visit food courts, such as the one at the Ala Moana Center, for a variety of local and international cuisine
- Markets: explore local markets, such as the Honolulu Fish Auction or the KCC Farmers Market, for fresh produce and seafood
- Food Trucks: try popular food trucks, such as Giovanni's Shrimp Truck or Leonard's Bakery, for unique and delicious eats
- Fine Dining: experience upscale cuisine at restaurants, such as Alan Wong's Honolulu or The Pig and The Lady
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Honolulu Fish Auction: a unique experience where you can watch the fish auction and try fresh seafood, located at 3817 Maunaloa Ave, Honolulu
- KCC Farmers Market: a bustling market with local produce, seafood, and prepared foods, located at 4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu
- Maui Farmers Market: a market featuring local produce, crafts, and prepared foods, located at 310 Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului
- Hilo Farmers Market: a market with local produce, seafood, and prepared foods, located at 421 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo
- Oahu Farm Tour: a tour of local farms, where you can learn about sustainable farming and try fresh produce, located at various farms on Oahu