🇲🇵 Northern Mariana Islands Food Guide — Dishes, Street Food & Dining

When visiting the Northern Mariana Islands, be sure to try the local cuisine, which is a unique blend of Chamorro, Carolinian, and American flavors, with popular dishes including Kelaguen, Laulau, and Tinaktak.

Food Culture Overview

The cuisine of the Northern Mariana Islands is a reflection of the islands' rich cultural heritage, with influences from the indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as from American, Japanese, and Spanish colonizers. The local diet is heavily based on seafood, with fish, shrimp, and lobster being staples in many dishes. The use of coconuts, breadfruit, and other tropical fruits and vegetables is also prevalent, adding a unique flavor and texture to many dishes. The islands' cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spices, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

The Northern Mariana Islands' cuisine is also shaped by its history, with many dishes reflecting the islands' strategic location in the Pacific. The introduction of new ingredients and cooking techniques by colonizers and traders has resulted in a unique fusion of flavors and styles. For example, the use of soy sauce and ginger in many dishes reflects the influence of Japanese cuisine, while the use of citrus juice and peppers reflects the influence of Spanish and Mexican cuisine.

The cuisine of the Northern Mariana Islands varies from island to island, with each island having its own unique specialties and traditions. For example, the island of Saipan is known for its Kelaguen, a dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juice, onions, and peppers, while the island of Rota is known for its Laulau, a dish made with pork, chicken, or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection.

Must-Try Dishes

Street Food & Snacks

• Tinaktak: grilled beef skewers served with a side of rice and vegetables, $5-$7
• Empanada: meat or cheese-filled pastry, $2-$3
• Kelaguen: raw fish marinated in citrus juice, onions, and peppers, $10-$12
• Fried Banana: fried banana fritters served with a side of honey, $3-$5
• Coconut Shrimp: shrimp coated in coconut flakes and fried, $8-$10
• Rice Cakes: grilled rice cakes served with a side of soy sauce and vinegar, $2-$3

Drinks

• Coconut Water: fresh coconut water, $2-$3
• Fresh Limeade: limeade made with fresh limes and sugar, $3-$5
• Iced Tea: sweet or unsweet tea served over ice, $2-$3
• Beer: local beer, $5-$7
• Kava: traditional Pacific Islander drink made from the roots of the kava plant, $5-$7
• Fresh Fruit Smoothies: smoothies made with fresh fruit and yogurt, $5-$7

Dining Customs

• Table manners are generally informal, with an emphasis on sharing food and enjoying good company
• It is customary to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal
• Try a little of each dish to show appreciation for the variety of foods
• Use your right hand when eating or giving/receiving something
• Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service
• Reservations are not always necessary, but are recommended for larger groups or special occasions

Where to Eat

• Local Restaurants: try traditional Chamorro and Carolinian dishes, $10-$20 per meal
• Street Food Stalls: try grilled meats and snacks, $5-$10 per meal
• Beachside BBQs: try grilled meats and seafood, $15-$30 per meal
• Food Courts: try a variety of local and international dishes, $10-$20 per meal
• Local Markets: try fresh produce and baked goods, $5-$10 per item

Food Markets & Food Experiences

• Saipan Market: try fresh produce and local snacks, located in downtown Saipan
• Rota Market: try fresh seafood and local dishes, located in downtown Rota
• Chamorro Village: try traditional Chamorro dishes and snacks, located in Saipan
• Food Festival: try a variety of local and international dishes, held annually in Saipan
• Cooking Class: learn how to make traditional Chamorro and Carolinian dishes, offered by local cooking schools