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Introduction: Hawaiian Food
Hawaii isn’t just a paradise of stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes—it’s also a food lover’s dream! With its unique blend of Hawaiian, Asian, and Polynesian influences, the islands offer an incredible variety of flavors that make every meal an adventure. From fresh poke bowls and savory plate lunches to sweet malasadas and refreshing shave ice, there’s something delicious around every corner. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will take you on a mouthwatering journey through the must-try foods of Hawaii.
My Favorite Food Find
If you're staying near the Waikiki area, you must try Castro's Latin American Restaurant! The Tres Leches French Toast pictured above was an unforgettable treat—rich, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. Every dish I saw coming out of the kitchen looked just as incredible, making it even harder to resist a second visit. My only regret? Not having enough time to return and explore more of the menu during my vacation!
Castro's Restaurant in Honolulu is a family-owned eatery specializing in vibrant Latin flavors and Cuban classics. Located in Waikiki, they pride themselves on using fresh, organic ingredients sourced locally to create flavorful and nutritious dishes. Their menu features items like the Cubano sandwich, choripán, and ropa vieja, as well as breakfast options such as the Buen Dia sandwich and avocado toast. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Castro's offers a laid-back dining experience that nourishes both the belly and soul.
Also Highly Recommended
Garlic chicken (or shrimp) is always a great choice when visiting Hawaii, but if you get the chance, make the trip to K and K Bar B-Que Inn—it’s absolutely worth it. Without a doubt, this was the best garlic chicken we had during our entire vacation!
K and K Bar-B-Que Inn is a cherished eatery in Kailua, Hawaii, specializing in authentic Hawaiian and Asian barbecue cuisine. Known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, the restaurant offers a variety of plate lunches, including favorites like garlic shrimp, chicken katsu, and teriyaki beef. With both indoor and outdoor seating, K and K Bar-B-Que Inn provides a casual and welcoming atmosphere for diners to enjoy hearty meals at reasonable prices.
Malasadas
A malasada is a delicious, deep-fried Portuguese doughnut that has become a beloved treat in Hawaii. Crispy on the outside and soft and pillowy on the inside, these golden pastries are typically dusted with sugar and sometimes filled with rich custards, haupia (coconut pudding), or chocolate. Brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants, malasadas have since become a staple of Hawaiian bakeries, with places like Leonard’s Bakery leading the way in serving up some of the best. Whether you enjoy them plain or filled, malasadas are a must-try indulgence when visiting Hawaii!
Leonard’s Bakery is a legendary Honolulu institution, best known for serving up Hawaii’s most famous malasadas—crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside, and coated in sugar. Since opening in 1952, this family-run bakery has become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of classic and custard-filled malasadas with flavors like haupia (coconut), chocolate, and macadamia nut. With its nostalgic charm and irresistible treats, Leonard’s Bakery is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to indulge in Hawaii’s best malasadas!
Manapua
Manapua is Hawaii’s take on the classic Chinese char siu bao, a fluffy, steamed, or baked bun filled with savory or sweet fillings. The most popular variety features char siu—tender, sweet, and smoky barbecue pork—packed inside a soft, pillowy bun. Brought to the islands by Cantonese immigrants, manapua has since become a local favorite, available at bakeries, convenience stores, and dim sum spots across Hawaii. While there are many great places to try it, my favorite is the char siu manapua from Chun Wah Kam.
They also have delicious spam fried rice (the container below).
Chun Wah Kam in Honolulu is a go-to spot for delicious, generously portioned Hawaiian-Cantonese cuisine, best known for its freshly made manapua and hearty plate lunches. Whether you prefer the classic char siu (barbecue pork) manapua or other flavorful fillings like chicken curry or lup cheong, their soft, pillowy buns are a must-try. Beyond manapua, the restaurant offers a wide selection of local favorites, from chow fun to sweet and sour pork, served in a casual, welcoming setting. If you're looking for a satisfying meal with bold flavors, Chun Wah Kam is a must-visit in Honolulu!
In Hawaii, kalbi steak is a local favorite that brings the bold, savory flavors of Korean barbecue to the islands. Made from short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame, this dish is grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a delicious, caramelized crust. While you can find kalbi at many local spots, Side Street Inn in Honolulu served up this beauty above—their perfectly marinated, juicy, and smoky kalbi steak was truly unforgettable. If you're a fan of grilled meats, this is a must-try when visiting Hawaii!
Side Street Inn in Honolulu is a beloved local hotspot known for its comforting, flavor-packed dishes served family-style, making it perfect for sharing. This no-frills eatery has gained a reputation for its generous portions, casual atmosphere, and legendary island favorites like garlic chicken, kalbi steak, and fried rice. A favorite among locals, chefs, and visitors alike, Side Street Inn offers a true taste of Hawaii’s diverse culinary scene, where bold flavors and hearty portions bring people together. Whether you're craving crispy pork chops or melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, this spot is a must-visit for a memorable feast in Honolulu!
Shave Ice
Shave ice is a beloved Hawaiian treat perfect for cooling off in the island heat. Unlike traditional snow cones, Hawaiian shave ice is made by finely shaving ice into a soft, fluffy texture that absorbs the delicious tropical syrups poured over it. Popular flavors include lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, mango, and classic rainbow, often topped with extras like sweetened condensed milk, azuki beans, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. While there are many great spots to try shave ice, my favorite is Waiola Shave Ice in Honolulu.
Waiola Shave Ice is a Honolulu gem, serving some of the finest, fluffiest shave ice on the island since 1940. Tucked away in a humble storefront, this iconic spot is known for its ultra-soft ice that perfectly soaks up its vibrant, house-made syrups in flavors like lilikoi, mango, and li hing mui. Beyond just a sweet treat, Waiola holds a special place in my heart, as I used to walk there from my grandmother’s house in Waikiki as a kid—making every visit a nostalgic and delicious experience.
Kalua Pork
Kalua pork is a Hawaiian delicacy that embodies the islands' rich culinary traditions. Traditionally prepared in an imu, an underground oven, a whole pig is seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt, wrapped in ti or banana leaves, and slow-cooked over hot lava rocks for hours. This method infuses the meat with a delicious smoky flavor while keeping it incredibly tender and juicy. Often served at luaus, kalua pork is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, commonly enjoyed with rice, poi, or cabbage. Whether at a festive gathering or a local plate lunch spot, this dish is a must-try for an authentic taste of Hawaii!
I had the pleasure of enjoying this dish at the Hale Koa Hotel Luau, a vibrant celebration of Polynesian culture featuring live music, hula performances, fire dancing, and an incredible buffet of Hawaiian cuisine.
Hale Koa Breakfast Buffet
The Koko at Kalia breakfast buffet at the Hale Koa Hotel offers a delightful and diverse dining experience, running daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. With indoor and outdoor seating, guests can enjoy oceanfront views while savoring a wide array of breakfast favorites. The buffet features made-to-order omelets, a self-serve waffle station with various toppings, and an assortment of pastries, fresh fruits, and local specialties. Unique offerings include ling hi mui pineapple, pineapple-glazed eggs benedict, and pineapple bread pudding, providing a taste of Hawaiian flavors. Priced at approximately $27 per person, the buffet is a good value for the variety, view, and food quality.
Li Hing Mui
Li hing mui is a salty, sweet, and tangy dried plum that originated in China and has become a beloved flavor in Hawaii. The name translates to "traveling plum" in Cantonese, reflecting its history as a preserved snack. It is often ground into a reddish orange li hing powder used to coat fruits, candies, and even drinks for a unique sweet-savory kick.
In Hawaii, you’ll commonly find li hing mui sprinkled on fresh pineapple, mango, or even shave ice, adding a tart and slightly salty contrast to the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s also a popular seasoning for gummy candies and popcorn, making it a nostalgic and addictive treat for locals and visitors alike. If you love bold flavors, li hing mui is a must-try!
Munch 'N Brunch Food Truck
Munch 'N Brunch Food Truck is a fantastic breakfast stop in Honolulu, located at the Food Truck Park in Waikiki. Known for its creative and flavorful morning eats, this truck serves up delicious lilikoi pancakes, hearty breakfast burritos, and refreshing lilikoi juice—all of which I had the chance to try, and they did not disappoint! The venue initially caught my eye with its outstanding reviews.
Hawaiian Christmas Meal
I was incredibly fortunate to enjoy a Hawaiian Christmas feast lovingly prepared by my grandmother’s caretaker, Nora! She put together an amazing spread that blended traditional holiday favorites with island-inspired dishes, creating the perfect fusion of flavors. The table was overflowing with tender roast meats, crispy lumpia, sweet corn on the cob, and tempura-fried delights, alongside Hawaiian staples like steamed rice and sautéed mushrooms with asparagus. Every bite was delicious, and by the end of the meal, we were all fat, happy, and beyond grateful for such a heartwarming and flavorful holiday celebration!
Poke
Poke in Hawaii is unlike anywhere else—it’s fresh, flavorful, and deeply rooted in local culture. Traditionally made with cubed raw ahi tuna, poke is marinated in shoyu (soy sauce), sesame oil, onions, and seaweed, creating a simple yet incredibly delicious dish. What sets Hawaiian poke apart from versions found elsewhere is the quality of the fish, often sourced straight from local waters, ensuring unmatched freshness and texture. Unlike the heavily sauced or overly processed poke bowls on the mainland, Hawaiian poke keeps it authentic, letting the natural flavors shine.
Canned Hawaiian Sun
Hawaiian Sun canned drinks are a staple in Hawaii, offering a refreshing taste of the islands with their tropical fruit flavors and lightly sweetened goodness. These iconic beverages are made with real fruit juice, capturing the essence of flavors like guava, mango, and pineapple. My personal favorite is the lilikoi (passion fruit) flavor, which delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it incredibly refreshing on a warm Hawaiian day.
Hawaiian Plate Lunches
Hawaiian plate lunches are the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty and flavorful meal that perfectly blends local and Asian influences. Typically, a plate lunch includes a generous serving of protein—such as teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or garlic shrimp—paired with steamed white rice and creamy macaroni salad; all served in a takeout container for a casual, satisfying feast. As seen in the photo above, the grilled teriyaki chicken is glazed in a savory-sweet sauce, resting on a bed of shredded cabbage for extra crunch, alongside the classic sides.
Other Local Foods to Try
Loco Moco
White rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lau Lau
Pork (or fish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed for a tender, flavorful bite.
Huli Huli Chicken
Sweet and savory grilled chicken, marinated in a teriyaki-like sauce.
Saimin
A Hawaiian noodle soup with dashi broth, Spam, green onions, and kamaboko (fish cake).
Haupia
A creamy coconut pudding, sometimes layered into pie.
Butter Mochi
A chewy, buttery dessert made with sweet rice flour and coconut milk.
Photos & Video
For more photos of my trip to Hawaii, please head to my Hawaiian Pinterest Page.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves, offering a delicious fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and Polynesian flavors that make every meal an adventure. From the fresh, savory delights of poke and kalua pork to the sweet indulgence of malasadas and shave ice, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re enjoying a classic plate lunch, sipping on a Hawaiian Sun drink, or digging into a bowl of saimin, each bite tells a story of the islands’ rich cultural heritage. No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing its local flavors, so be sure to eat your way through paradise and savor the true Taste of Aloha!
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