If there’s one thing people in Hawaii love to do, it’s eat. Hawaii’s population is made up of settlers from the east — China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines and Portugal — who brought their regional cuisines with them. After blending with Western recipes, “local” food was born.
No trip to the island is complete without sampling some of its best foods. Instead of getting too caught up at a resort paying top dollar for food, follow these tips to eat like a local in Hawaii.
Try Plate Lunch: An affordable and delectable way to spend your afternoon is toes in the sand, plate lunch in hand. Plate lunch consists of two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad and your choice of meat — from Korean Kalbi ribs to teriyaki chicken or fried mahi mahi — your choices are almost endless.
Go Mom and Pop: Some of the best kept secrets in Hawaii are little stands or inconspicuous store fronts. Family-run businesses in Hawaii have been around for years likely because they have been doing something right.
Eat poke: Pronounced “po-kay,” poke is Hawaii’s version of sashimi. Diced up bits of raw ahi tuna mixed with onions, seaweed, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil and chili pepper is a true sampling of how fresh fish is in Hawaii. Poke can be found cheaply at delis, grocery stores and even some liquor stores.
Treat yourself to sweets: Everyone has a sweet tooth and luckily Hawaii is full of great options. Try a malasada (Portuguese fried doughnut with sugar), shave ice or just good, old-fashioned passion fruit or mango from a local fruit stand.
Read This Next
How to Live Like a Local Abroad
Top Trends
Aug 27, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Dec 19, 20244 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events
Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott
More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.
Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024Why You Should Visit Florence in January
Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Dec 18, 2024Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York
Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.
ShareThis