VACATION LIKE A LOCAL
Local Hawai'i Food Guide
Discover the captivating flavors of cuisine local to Hawai'i, where diverse cultural influences and tropical ingredients blend to create a unique culinary experience. This guide is an overview of what dishes are important to the fabric of Hawaii. While not all local food is strictly "Hawaiian," the fusion of cultures has contributed to a rich and diverse culinary landscape in Hawai'i. If interested in finding restaurants, visit our Restaurant Page.
Kalo
Kalo, also known as taro, is a sacred staple in Hawaiian cuisine. From poi, a traditional mashed taro dish, to lau lau, where taro leaves are used to wrap pork or fish, kalo is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. It represents sustenance, strength, and ancestral ties. Through various preparations like kulolo (taro dessert) and pa'i'ai (pounded taro), kalo holds cultural significance, connecting the Hawaiian people to their land and traditions.
Lau lau
"lao lao:
Lau Lau (ryming with "now now") is a beloved Hawaiian dish consisting of succulent pork, butterfish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and cooked to perfection. The bundle is then steamed, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a tender, flavorful delight. This traditional dish represents the art of preserving and cooking food in harmony with nature, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii.
POI
Poi is a cherished Hawaiian dish made from fermented taro root. It has a smooth and slightly tangy texture, often enjoyed as a staple food. Poi holds cultural significance, representing the deep connection between the Hawaiian people, their land, and their ancestors. It is a symbol of sustenance, tradition, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge, reflecting the rich heritage of the islands.
Poke
po-kay
Poke is a popular Hawaiian dish consisting of diced raw fish, typically marinated with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. It is a refreshing and flavorful delicacy that showcases the freshness and quality of seafood in the islands. With its diverse variations and creative toppings, poke has become a symbol of the vibrant culinary culture and coastal lifestyle of Hawaii.
haupia Dessert
how-pee-ah
Haupia is a delicious Hawaiian dessert known for its smooth and creamy texture. Made from coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, it is often served in squares or molded into various shapes. Haupia is a sweet treat that represents the tropical flavors of Hawaii and is enjoyed as a refreshing and indulgent finale to a meal, capturing the essence of the island's culinary delights.
Kalua Pork
Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that showcases the art of slow-roasting a whole pig in an imu, an underground oven. The result is tender, smoky, and flavorful shredded pork, often seasoned with sea salt and cooked to perfection. Kalua pork is a centerpiece of Hawaiian feasts and embodies the spirit of communal gatherings and celebration, offering a taste of authentic island cuisine.
loco moco
low-ko moe-ko
Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian comfort food that combines layers of goodness in a single dish. It typically consists of a bed of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in rich brown gravy. Loco Moco represents the fusion of flavors influenced by different cultures in Hawaii and is a hearty, satisfying meal that locals and visitors alike enjoy.
spam musubi
mah-soo-bee
Spam Musubi is a popular snack and on-the-go meal in Hawaii. It features a slice of grilled Spam, seasoned with soy sauce and sugar, placed on a block of rice and wrapped with a strip of nori seaweed. This delectable fusion of American and Japanese influences has become an iconic part of Hawaiian cuisine, offering a delicious and portable treat that reflects the diverse culinary heritage of the islands.
shave ice
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Shave ice is a refreshing and colorful Hawaiian treat that brings relief on hot tropical days. Finely shaved ice is piled high in a cup or cone and drizzled with a variety of flavored syrups, ranging from classic choices like strawberry and pineapple to unique blends such as lilikoi (passion fruit) and li hing mui (salty dried plum). Topped with sweetened condensed milk or a scoop of ice cream, shave ice offers a delightful burst of flavors and a delightful way to cool down while enjoying the vibrant spirit of Hawaii.
Açaí
ah-sah-ee
Acai is a superfood berry native to the Amazon rainforest, but its popularity has also spread to Hawaii. The deep purple fruit is often blended into a thick, smoothie-like consistency and served in bowls. Topped with granola, fresh fruit, and honey, acai bowls offer a nutritious and refreshing option for breakfast or a healthy snack, embodying the tropical and health-conscious lifestyle of the islands.
