Hawaiian Foods In Hawaii – If you’re heading to Oahu and wondering what to eat, you’re in for a treat!
Hawaiian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, influenced by Polynesian, Asian, and American cultures. From traditional Hawaiian food to modern twists, Oahu offers a culinary adventure that’s hard to beat. Here’s a list of 10 must-try Hawaiian foods and where to find them on the island.
10 Must-Try Hawaiian Foods in Oahu (Where to Eat in Hawaii)
1. Poke Bowl
Poke (pronounced “poh-keh”) is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine. This dish features diced raw fish, typically ahi tuna, seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. Oahu boasts some of the best poke bowls in the world. (Bon Appétit)
Where to eat:
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Foodland – A local grocery chain known for its fresh and affordable poke. Price starts at a very affordable $7.99. (Yelp)
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Ono Seafood – A small spot in Honolulu praised for its fresh and flavorful poke. Their poke ranges from $12.99 to $13.99. (Hawaii Guide)
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Maguro Spot – Located in Waikiki, offering generous portions and a variety of poke options. Price depends on how you want to build/customise your bowls. Check their menu here.
2. Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian favorite, featuring chicken that’s marinated and grilled over an open flame, resulting in juicy, smoky, and flavorful meat.
Where to eat:
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Mike’s Huli Chicken – Located in Kahuku, this spot has been serving up delicious Huli Huli Chicken for years. (mikeshulichicken.com)
3. Dole Whip
Dole Whip is a refreshing pineapple-flavored soft-serve treat that’s perfect for cooling down on a warm Hawaiian day.
Where to eat:
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Dole Plantation – Situated in Wahiawa, this is the original home of the Dole Whip.
4. Shave Ice
Shave ice is a popular Hawaiian dessert made by shaving a block of ice and adding flavored syrups. It’s a must-try when visiting Oahu.
Where to eat:
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Matsumoto Shave Ice – A legendary spot in Haleiwa, serving shave ice since 1951. (Instagram)
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Waiola Shave Ice – Known for its finely shaved ice and variety of flavors.
5. Garlic Shrimp
Garlic shrimp is a North Shore specialty, featuring shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce and served with rice.
Where to eat:
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Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – A famous food truck in Kahuku, known for its flavorful garlic shrimp. (Hawaii Aloha Travel)
6. Acai Bowl
Acai bowls are a healthy and delicious option, made with frozen acai berries blended into a smoothie and topped with fruits, granola, and honey.
Where to eat:
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Haleiwa Bowls – Located on the North Shore, offering fresh and organic acai bowls.
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The Sunrise Shack – A vibrant spot known for its colorful and nutritious bowls.
7. Malasadas
Malasadas are Portuguese-style doughnuts without holes, deep-fried to golden perfection and coated in sugar. (Tripadvisor)
Where to eat:
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Leonard’s Bakery – A Honolulu institution since 1952, famous for its fresh and fluffy malasadas.
8. Kalua Pig Tacos
Kalua pig is a traditional Hawaiian dish made by slow-roasting pork, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. When served in tacos, it’s a delightful fusion of flavors.(konosnorthshore.com)
Where to eat:
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Kono’s Northshore – Known for its slow-roasted kalua pig and laid-back vibes. (konosnorthshore.com)
9. Musubi
Musubi is a popular snack in Hawaii, consisting of a slice of grilled Spam atop a block of rice, wrapped together with nori (seaweed).
Where to eat:
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Foodland – Offers a variety of musubi options, perfect for a quick snack.
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7-Eleven – Convenient and surprisingly tasty musubi selections.
10. Mai Tai
Mai Tai is a classic Hawaiian cocktail made with rum, lime juice, and other tropical flavors. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy while watching the sunset.
Where to drink:
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The Crouching Lion – Located on the east side of the island, offering a unique Macadamia Nut Mai Tai.
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Mai Tai Bar in Waikiki – A beachfront bar known for its refreshing Mai Tais and vibrant atmosphere.
My Verdict..
Exploring the diverse and delicious food scene in Oahu is an essential part of any Hawaiian vacation. From traditional Hawaiian food to modern culinary delights, the island offers something for every palate. So, when you’re planning where to eat in Hawaii, make sure to include these best eats on Oahu in your itinerary. Enjoy the flavors of the islands and embrace the aloha spirit through its cuisine!
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