A Foodie’s Guide to Hawaii: Must-Try Dishes

Hawaii is not just a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and lush landscapes; it’s also a vibrant melting pot of flavors. With influences from native Hawaiian, Asian, American, and European cultures, the islands boast a culinary scene like no other. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or someone who prefers more traditional dishes, Hawaii has something delicious to offer. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes that every foodie should experience on their next trip to the Aloha State.

1. Poke

No list of Hawaiian food would be complete without mentioning poke (pronounced "poh-kay"). This raw fish salad is a quintessential Hawaiian dish, with marinated cubed fish—typically tuna or octopus—seasoned with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, seaweed, and chili pepper. You can find poke in almost every corner of Hawaii, from upscale restaurants to local fish markets. Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors, as poke bowls often come with a variety of toppings, such as avocado, seaweed salad, or spicy mayo.

Pro Tip: The freshest poke comes from local fish markets like Tamura's or Foodland in Oahu.

2. Loco Moco

Loco Moco is the ultimate comfort food in Hawaii. It consists of a bed of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and a rich brown gravy. It's the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and satisfying flavors that’ll leave you full and content. Whether served at a diner or a high-end restaurant, Loco Moco is a beloved dish that has earned its spot on the list of must-tries.

Pro Tip: Many local spots offer variations of Loco Moco, including versions with spam, kalua pork, or even seafood.

3. Kalua Pork

Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that’s typically cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The slow-cooked pork is seasoned with sea salt and wrapped in banana leaves before being smoked to perfection. The result is tender, smoky, and flavorful meat that’s often served with rice or in a sandwich, like the famous kalua pork sandwich at a local luau. It’s a dish that embodies the rich history and culture of the islands.

Pro Tip: Check out a luau or local plate lunch spots to enjoy Kalua pork in its full glory.

4. Spam Musubi

You might be surprised to see Spam on the menu in Hawaii, but it’s a beloved ingredient in local cuisine. Spam musubi is a simple yet satisfying snack: a slice of Spam served on top of a block of rice, wrapped in a sheet of nori (seaweed). The dish is typically seasoned with a sweet soy sauce glaze, giving it a savory-sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the rice. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal and can be found at convenience stores, local markets, and food trucks across the islands.

Pro Tip: Pick up Spam musubi from a local 7-Eleven or grocery store for an authentic and affordable experience.

5. Hawaiian Plate Lunch

A plate lunch is one of the most iconic meals in Hawaii, often featuring a hearty combination of meat, rice, and macaroni salad. Some classic options include chicken katsu (breaded and fried chicken), teriyaki beef, and the aforementioned Kalua pork. The balance of flavors in a plate lunch makes it a satisfying meal that embodies the fusion of cultures in Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a family-style feast, a plate lunch is always a reliable option.

Pro Tip: Look for local food trucks or mom-and-pop diners to get an authentic plate lunch experience.

6. Shave Ice

Hawaii’s version of shaved ice is a refreshing treat perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Unlike the coarse, crunchy shaved ice you may find elsewhere, Hawaiian shave ice is finely shaved and topped with flavored syrups. You can go simple with a classic cherry or blue raspberry flavor, or get creative by adding toppings like condensed milk, mochi, or even ice cream at the bottom. The combination of textures and sweet flavors is a true island experience.

Pro Tip: For an over-the-top shave ice experience, visit Matsumoto Shave Ice on Oahu or Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice on Maui.

7. Manapua

Manapua is a type of Hawaiian bao bun, a soft, pillowy bun filled with savory ingredients like char siu pork, chicken, or vegetables. It's a popular snack or lunch item, and it has roots in Chinese cuisine, thanks to Hawaii’s Chinese immigrant population. Whether you grab a manapua from a bakery or a food truck, it’s a perfect bite-sized treat that packs a flavorful punch.

Pro Tip: Check out the local bakeries or gas stations for an authentic manapua experience.

8. Ahi (Tuna) Sashimi

Ahi tuna is one of Hawaii's prized seafood delicacies, and nothing beats a fresh plate of ahi sashimi. The tuna is typically served raw and lightly seared, allowing the natural flavors to shine. You’ll find it served with a simple soy sauce dipping sauce and wasabi on the side. If you’re a seafood lover, a visit to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without trying ahi in all its raw, delicate glory.

Pro Tip: Visit a sushi bar or seafood restaurant on the coast to enjoy the freshest tuna.

9. Poi

Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from taro root, which is boiled and mashed into a smooth, purple paste. It’s often served as a side dish to complement the rich, savory flavors of meat dishes like Kalua pork or laulau. The taste of poi can vary from sweet to mildly tangy, depending on its preparation and fermentation. While it’s not for everyone, it’s a must-try for those looking to experience authentic Hawaiian flavors.

Pro Tip: Poi can be an acquired taste, so try it alongside a flavorful main dish to balance out the flavors.

10. Laulau

Laulau is a traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of meat (usually pork or fish) wrapped in taro leaves and slow-cooked until tender. The taro leaves help to retain moisture and infuse the meat with an earthy flavor. It’s typically served as part of a plate lunch or at a luau and pairs wonderfully with rice and poi.

Pro Tip: You can find laulau at many Hawaiian restaurants or farm-to-table eateries on the islands.

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Hawaii is a true food lover’s paradise, where flavors from across the globe come together to create unique and unforgettable dishes. Whether you’re savoring a fresh poke bowl by the beach, indulging in a rich plate lunch, or cooling off with a shave ice, the island’s culinary offerings are as diverse and beautiful as the islands themselves. Don’t miss these must-try dishes on your next Hawaiian adventure—you’ll leave with a belly full of aloha!