15 Hawaiian Foods Hawaii Loves & Where To Find Them

If you’re looking for a list of the foods Hawaii is known for and the must-try Hawaiian foods, you’ve come to the right place!

The islands of Hawaii are famous not only for their breathtaking landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and Aloha spirit, but also for their unique and delicious cuisine.

As someone who has visited Hawaii many times, I've had the pleasure of exploring the local food scene firsthand—and loving it! I can tell you that Hawaiian cuisine is a delicious reflection of the Hawaiian Islands’ rich culture and history.

What Hawaiian foods is the aloha state known for?

A table full of Hawaiian foods — Hawaiian foods are a delicious delight for the senses.

The Hawaiian food scene is as diverse as its people. The islands' food traditions have been shaped by Native Hawaiian culture, waves of immigration from Asia and the Pacific, and a strong connection to the land and sea.

Thanks to the lush, tropical environment, local farms provide an abundance of fresh ingredients that are central to Hawaiian dishes, and the Pacific Ocean provides much of the rest. And everyone from native Hawaiians to Japanese plantation workers to Portuguese newcomers have had a hand in turning these unique local ingredients into a satisfying mix of delicious dishes.

If you’re visiting Hawaii, you can plan your perfect vacation with the best Oahu itinerary for 6 days. In the meantime, let’s dive into the famous Hawaiian foods that make Hawaii a paradise for your taste buds.

Famous hawaiian FOods

1. Poke

Poke bowls are not the only way to enjoy poke in Hawaii.

Even though it is today one of the most popular foods of Seattle and some other spots on the U.S. mainland, poke is still a must-try when visiting Hawaii, poke’s birthplace!

This iconic dish features fresh, cubed, raw fish—typically ahi tuna—tossed in a simple marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed. It's light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick, refreshing meal on a warm Hawaiian day.

Originally, poke was a simple snack for fishermen, who would season their fresh catch with salt and seaweed right on their boat. Over time, it evolved into the popular Hawaiian food dish you’ll find all over the islands, from grocery stores to food trucks to high-end restaurants.

Today, poke bowls often come with rice and toppings like avocado, cucumber, and furikake—a savory Japanese seasoning blend.

Surprisingly, one of the best places to get poke in Hawaii is at the Foodland supermarket chain. It prides itself on serving high-quality, freshly made poke with various flavors, from classic shoyu to spicy ahi poke. You can find Foodland locations all over the islands.

Wherever you decide to try a poke bowl, it’s a delicious way to experience Hawaii’s local flavors and enjoy one of the islands’ true Hawaiian food staples.

2. Malasadas

Hawaiian food, Malasadas look like filled donuts — Malasadas are a beloved Hawaiian food with Portuguese roots.

Malasadas trace their roots back to Portuguese immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to Hawaii. These sweet, deep-fried pastries quickly became a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike.

Leonard’s Bakery, which opened in 1952, introduced malasadas to Hawaii, and the bakery remains the go-to spot for malasadas in Honolulu.

Founder Leonard Rigo began offering malasadas made the traditional way his mom would make them back in Portugal. The hole-free donuts were fried until golden brown on the outside while remaining light and fluffy on the inside. Later, various fillings were added.

Today, malasadas are one of the most famous foods of Honolulu. But even with all the flavors now available, the traditional malasada is still the most popular.

Dusted in sugar, this classic version is the perfect breakfast treat. But you may prefer one of the more evolved offerings, which involve custard, chocolate, macadamia nut, and even li hing—a topping of tangy, salty, dried plum sprinkles.

No matter which style you choose, the doughy wonders come out fresh and hot from the fryer. They are melt-in-your-mouth marvels sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, and they’re among the most delicious Hawaiian foods you’ll enjoy during your stay. A must-try if you are visiting Honolulu!

3. Loco Moco

Loco moco is a satisfying Hawaiian comfort food.

Loco moco is a classic Hawaiian comfort food that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This hearty dish is typically served with a bed of steamed white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty and a perfectly fried egg. The combination is then smothered in rich brown gravy. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Loco moco’s origins date back to the late 1940s in Hilo, Hawaii. It was created for a group of local teens who came into the Lincoln Grill looking for a filling meal at an affordable price.

The owners listened to the teen’s ingredient suggestions and then whipped up the new creation. The result not only satisfied the hungry teens, it quickly became a beloved staple of Hawaiian cuisine.

One of the best places to indulge in this must-try Hawaiian favorite is Zippy’s. The readers of Hawaiʻi Magazine recently named Zippy’s loco moco the best in all of Hawaii. With Zippy’s many locations, you’ll be sure to find a winning version of one of the most popular Hawaiian dishes wherever you’re staying in Hawaii. Take the drive around the island of Oahu and you’re bound to find at least one.

4. Poi

The purple mash of Poi — Poi, the least photogenic Hawaiian food Hawaii loves

Undoubtedly, poi is a beloved staple of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, especially among locals with a Pacific Isander background. It also has a special place in the culture of the Hawaiian Islands.

Made from taro root, poi is pounded and mixed with water to create a smooth, creamy dish that's both delicious and nutritious.

But it’s not just sustenance to Pacific Islanders in Hawaii; this native Hawaiian food also embodies the importance of community. Cooking and sharing poi at gatherings emphasizes hospitality and togetherness, reminding folks of the deep connections between family and friends.

If you want to try authentic fresh poi, you have to check out the Waiahole Poi Factory on Oahu. It’s probably my favorite Hawaiian restaurant.

The poi made there is still prepared the traditional way. The roots of the taro plant are cooked and then pounded by hand using a stone pestle, a method passed down through countless generations, dating back to the ancient Hawaiians.

Poi is often served as part of a Hawaiian plate alongside other traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pig or lomi-lomi salmon, making for a perfect flavor combo.

So, when in Hawaii, don’t miss the chance to experience poi as part of a traditional Hawaiian meal. It’s a fun way to connect with the islands and enjoy a dish that is both rich in history and remains a bedrock of the Hawaiian diet.

5. Haupia

Haupia on top pancakes — Haupia-topped pancakes are a great way to start the day in Hawaii.

Haupia is Hawaii’s sweet treat that everyone should try. This creamy coconut milk–based pudding with a bit of a jiggle enchants with its velvety texture and subtle sweetness. It’s a beloved staple at Hawaiian luaus and family gatherings.

The exact origins of haupia are a bit hazy, but it has certainly been enjoyed by locals for generations. Often served chilled in cubes, it's the perfect refreshing complement to heavier dishes, making it a delightful addition to any meal and an absolute must on any Hawaiian food list of local dessert favorites.

If you’re looking to taste haupia at its best, you’ve got one more reason to make sure you make your way to Waiahole Poi Factory. That’s where you’ll find the Sweet Lady of Waiahole.

This local favorite is a unique dessert featuring kulolo—a sweet taro and coconut treat—paired with haupia ice cream. The kulolo is warmed, and as it intermingles with the refreshingly cool and creamy haupia ice cream, each taste provides a perfect blend of flavors that melt in your mouth.

6. hawaiian Shave Ice

Hawaiian Shaved Ice — Hawaiian shave ice can be traditional, over the top, or somewhere in between.

Without a doubt, shave ice is a quintessential Hawaiian treat that you absolutely cannot miss on any Hawaii vacation! It was introduced to the islands back in the 1800s by Japanese immigrants looking for a way to cool down while working in the sugar and pineapple plantations.

This delightful dessert is made by finely shaving blocks of ice, creating a fluffy mound that's perfectly light and refreshingly chill. The ice is then flavored by any of more than 30 different syrups.

While Matsumoto Shave Ice is probably the most iconic purveyor of this legendary Hawaiian cool-down treat, their long lines may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Luckily, there are plenty of other spots that offer other delicious options.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is a standout, with natural flavors that are both bold and fresh. Each bite feels amazing after a long hot day! There are 7 different locations on 3 different Hawaiian Islands.

For those looking to go beyond the tried-and-true traditional options, Island Vintage Shave Ice adds a creative twist with mochi, fresh fruit, and even haupia toppings. The variety of options at this great place takes shave ice to the next level. They have locations on Oahu and Maui.

7. SPAM Musubi

Spam Musubi, a favorite on the Hawaiian Islands — Is SPAM musubi a Japanese Hawaiian food or a Hawaiian Japanese food?

SPAM musubi is Hawaii’s go-to snack. It’s simple: a slice of grilled SPAM on top of rice, all wrapped in nori. This handheld bite is perfect for when you’re on the move.

SPAM arrived in Hawaii during World War II, when the United States Army brought it from the mainland to feed American soldiers stationed on the islands. Locals quickly embraced it, and SPAM musubi was born. Over time, it became a Hawaiian staple food loved everywhere in the Aloha State.

Though it’s part of the long history of onigiri, which is still one of the most popular foods in Japan, SPAM musubi is a uniquely Hawaiian version. The SPAM is often brushed with a sweet soy glaze that pairs perfectly with the rice. Some versions add extras like scrambled eggs or a sprinkle of furikake for more flavor.

For classic SPAM musubi, skip the fancy places and head straight to a 7-Eleven Hawaii or Foodland location, which you’ll find on all the islands. Yes, seriously.

Or, if you’re on Oahu, check out Musubi Cafe Iyasume for a more gourmet experience. Locals swear by the cafe for its variety of delicious musubi options and fun merch.

8. Lau Lau

Lau Lau and other famous Hawaiian foods — Lau lau makes up part of a deluxe Hawaiian plate lunch of traditional food in Hawaii.

No discussion of Hawaiian cuisine is complete without mentioning lau lau, a traditional Hawaiian food and true islands’ favorite. This age-old delicacy has deep roots in Hawaiian culture and is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Lau lau features tender, marinated pork wrapped in layers of taro leaves then ti leaves. The bundles are then steamed to perfection. The result is like a warm hug of flavors! Some versions also include chicken or fish for a more robust combination.

When it comes to finding the best lau lau, you can’t go wrong with Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Honolulu. Founded in 1946, this family-owned eatery has been offering up scrumptious versions of traditional Hawaiian cuisine ever since.

Even though the restaurant has won a coveted James Beard Award for its efforts, it maintains a modest, low-key approach to making incredible traditional favorites. The lau lau here is made with love, and you can taste its rich culinary heritage in every bite.

On Kauai, Smiley’s Local Grinds makes a tasty lau lau that comes with chicken long rice (Hawaiian-style chicken soup) and lomi salmon.

9. Pineapple

Cocktails with pineapple and tropical fruits — A Mai Tai is a great opportunity to enjoy pineapple two different ways.

Pineapples are certainly a beloved fruit in Hawaii known for their bright flavor and refreshing sweetness. But did you know that a single pineapple plant can produce just one fruit per year? That makes every bite feel extra special!

These edible gems thrive in Hawaii’s warm climate. The Dole Food Company on Oahu has played a key role in their growth since the late 1800s.

You can find fields and fields of these iconic tropical fruits flourishing at the Dole Plantation on Oahu and on your drive to the North Shore. Visiting is a great idea for anyone wanting to learn more about this delicious crop.

The plantation also boasts the world’s largest pineapple maze and the famous Dole Whip. This creamy, pineapple-flavored, tangy soft serve is a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Of course, you’ll find fresh pineapple in many forms across the islands. Enjoy juicy slices of this local Hawaiian food at beachside stands or pineapple-infused cocktails at local bars. Indeed, pineapple juice is a critical component of the locally ubiquitous mai tai and a key to its signature flavor.

Consider ordering one of these world-famous cocktails at the renowned Mai Tai Bar in Oahu’s legendary oceanfront Royal Hawaiian Hotel. It’s the perfect way to toast your incredibly good fortune of being in Hawaii!

10. Taro Chips

Taro Chips, a must-try food in Hawaii — Taro chips offer a terrific taste of Hawaii.

Surprised to learn that taro chips are a beloved snack in Hawaii? You’re not alone! Made from the tasty taro root, these chips are a crunchy delight that locals can’t get enough of.

Taro has long been a part of Hawaiian culture and thrives in Hawaii’s rich volcanic soil and warm climate. Once harvested, the root is sliced thin and fried to create addictive chips. With their savory and slightly sweet flavor, they’re perfect for snacking any time of day.

If you’re on the hunt for the best taro chips, look no further than local markets and farm stands. Many places offer unique flavors like Hawaiian sea salt and spicy variations that’ll keep you coming back for more!

A couple of the most well-known Hawaiian brands producing delicious taro chips are Hawaiian Chip Company and 'Ulu Mana. Pick some up while visiting the islands and bring home one of the most famous foods from Hawaii.

11. Acai Bowl

Acai bowl with granola and fruit — An acai bowl can be as pretty and delicious as it is nutritious.

Acai bowls have become one of the most popular foods in Hawaii, and it’s easy to see why! These colorful bowls are refreshing, delicious, and packed with superfoods.

Originating in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, acai berries made their way to Hawaii in the early 2000s and exploded in popularity. The berries are blended into a thick, smoothie-like base for bowls that are topped with fresh fruit, granola, nuts, and often a drizzle of honey or coconut flakes.

My favorite versions of this must-try Hawaiian dish can be found at Banzai Bowls, with locations in Haleiwa and the North Shore of Oahu. They’re known for their massive portions, tropical toppings like coconut and pineapple, and blends that are so thick, they almost taste like ice cream.

The North Shore has so many delicious food options that it’s the perfect place to base yourself during your Hawaiian vacation. Check out the best hotels in North Shore Oahu.

12. Manapua

Manapua Hawaiian Dumplings — Hawaiians love creating novel fillings for their manapua.

Did you know manapua is a delicious treat with roots in Chinese cuisine that has become a beloved snack in Hawaii? Well, it has! This fluffy, steamed bun filled with savory goodness is a must-try for anyone visiting the islands.

The manapua backstory begins with Chinese immigrants introducing bao buns to Hawaii. Over time, locals embraced this delightful snack, creating new fillings that include pork, chicken, lup cheong Chinese sausage, Portuguese sausage, sweet potato, and custard.

Every local in Hawaii knows that the best place to get manapua is Sing Cheong Yuan Bakery in Honolulu’s Chinatown.

13. Ube

Ube Latte in Hawaii — In Hawaii, ube can show up in the strangest places.

Ube, a purple yam from the Philippines, has become a sensation in Hawaii, adding another splash of vibrant color to the islands' dessert scene. Its naturally sweet, earthy flavor paired with its striking purple hue make it both an eye-catching and delicious treat.

From malasadas to ice cream, pancakes to boba milk tea, ube has found its way into many local favorites. But if you’re looking for something truly special, ube cheesecake is where it’s at.

The best ube cheesecake in Hawaii can be found out Adela’s Country Eatery. Named the “Best Restaurant in Hawaii” by USA Today this year, Adela’s has definitely made waves by adding a stunning and delicious ube cheesecake to its long-beloved selection of exceptional noodle dishes.

Rich, creamy, and a perfect balance of flavors, this dessert offers a unique take on Hawaii’s new purple phenom. Some believe Adela’s award-winning ube cheesecake and haupia pie are enough of a reason for visiting Hawaii.

14. Pitaya Bowl

Pitaya or dragon fruit bowl — Electric pink deliciousness is a part of every pitaya bowl in Hawaii.

In addition to the acai bowls that we’ve already discussed as a popular food in Hawaii, other fruit bowls have a big following on the islands as well. But of all the varieties of tropical fruit bowls that you’ll find in Hawaii, many consider pitaya to be the best.

The star of the show is the pitaya itself, also known as dragon fruit. With its stunning bright pink or yellow exterior and mildly sweet pink flesh, it looks and tastes like a tropical dream! Blended into a smoothie bowl, pitaya creates a delightfully creamy and satisfying texture.

One of the things that makes pitaya bowls so delicious is how customizable they are. Choose from a rich variety of toppings, and you’ve got a delicious, nutritious treat.

For some of the best pitaya bowls, check out Banzai Bowls in North Shore on Oahu. They serve up amazing options that pack in local flavors.

The Sunrise Shack in Waikiki is another great spot. Known for its fun, beachy vibe, it offers tasty smoothie bowls that are hard to resist.

15. Kona Coffee

Breakfast in Hawaii means Kona coffee — Make Kona coffee a part of every breakfast in Hawaii.

When it comes to coffee in Hawaii, nothing compares to the rich, smooth flavor of Kona. Grown on the slopes of Mauna Loa, this world-famous brew offers a taste that’s completely unique.

Volcanic soil, warm mornings, afternoon clouds, and cool nights all work together to create a coffee bean unlike any other. Every batch is hand-picked and sun-dried to guarantee quality.

Kona coffee is famous for its rich, nutty taste. You’ll pick up hints of caramel and chocolate in every sip. It’s smooth and leaves a velvety finish that lingers.

For a real treat, visit Greenwell Farms on the Big Island for a complimentary guided tour of one of Hawaii’s most celebrated producers of Kona coffee.

Greenwell Farms has been making its famous coffee for over 170 years, and their tours give you a chance to see the process from seed to cup. You’ll learn about the growing, roasting, and—most importantly—get to taste the freshest coffee right where it’s made.

Aloha

I hope you’ve enjoyed this review of the most famous Hawaiian foods and the stories behind them. Now, when you visit the islands, you’ll have a much better idea of which Hawaiian favorite foods to include on your Aloha State bucket list.

I wish you a great trip and amazing eating!