Hawaii is not just a tropical paradise—it’s also a culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. From savory seafood to hearty comfort foods, the islands offer a variety of dishes that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a foodie on a quest for authentic tastes or simply looking to indulge in something new, here are 7 must-eat foods that will give you a true taste of Hawaii.

1. Poke

Poke (pronounced “poh-kay”) is a quintessential Hawaiian dish that you absolutely must try. It’s raw, marinated fish, typically tuna, but you can also find variations with salmon, octopus, or even tofu. While poke is a fan favorite, don’t forget to indulge in other fresh seafood offerings while you’re here. Oahu’s coastal location means you’ll have access to the freshest catch of the day!

Where to try it:

  • Uncle’s Fish Market Bar & Grill (Aiea): Enjoy fresh poke bowls and seafood platters with local, high-quality ingredients.
  • Nico’s Pier 38 (Honolulu): For an amazing selection of fresh seafood, including poke and a rotating selection of daily catches.

2. Spam Musubi

A unique fusion of Hawaiian and Japanese influences, spam musubi is a snack you’ll find everywhere on the island. This tasty treat features a slice of spam atop a block of rice, wrapped with a strip of seaweed. It’s sometimes glazed with a bit of teriyaki sauce for added flavor. Easy to eat on the go and packed with flavor, spam musubi is a great introduction to local Hawaiian snacks.

Where to try it:

  • Musubi Cafe Iyasume (Honolulu): A local favorite known for its variety of spam musubi, including unique variations like spicy mayo or teriyaki.
  • 7-Eleven (Various locations): Stop by any of Oahu’s 7-Elevens for a quick, budget-friendly bite — their pre-packaged Spam musubi is even voted Hawaii’s Best!

3. Garlic Shrimp

If you’re a fan of seafood, you can’t miss Hawaii’s garlic shrimp plate. Served with a side of rice and sometimes a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of parsley, this dish is known for its bold, garlicky goodness. The shrimp is typically sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, giving it a savory, flavorful punch that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp. Local food trucks, especially along Oahu’s North Shore, are famous for serving up the best garlic shrimp you can find.

Where to try it:

  • Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Honolulu): Famous for their shrimp scampi plate, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce and served with rice.
  • Aloha Shrimp (Hauula): Another fantastic spot serving up garlic shrimp with a variety of flavors, including their popular spicy version.

4. Loco Moco

Loco Moco is comfort food at its finest. This hearty dish features a scoop of rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in savory brown gravy. It’s a classic local dish that’s both filling and delicious — perfect after a busy day of sightseeing.

Where to try it:

  • Rainbow Drive-In (Honolulu): A famous spot for classic Hawaiian plate lunches, including their tasty and satisfying Loco Moco.
  • Button Up Cafe (Pearl City): A cozy, local spot known for its hearty Loco Moco served with a side of aloha.

5. Kalua Pork (and Laulau)

Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish cooked by slow-roasting a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu. The result is incredibly tender, smoky, and savory pork that melts in your mouth. It’s typically served as part of a plate lunch or in a delicious Hawaiian-style sandwich (think kalua pork with coleslaw on a soft bun).

Where to try it:

  • Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Honolulu): A legendary spot to enjoy tender Kalua Pork and other classic Hawaiian dishes.
  • Highway Inn (Honolulu and Waipahu): Known for its traditional Hawaiian menu, Highway Inn serves up delicious Kalua Pork alongside other local favorites like chicken long rice and fresh poke.

6. Meat Jun

Meat Jun is a savory dish that originated in Hawaii and is often overlooked, but it should definitely be on your radar. It consists of thin slices of beef marinated in a soy-based sauce, then dipped in egg and pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. Typically served with rice, it’s a popular dish at local plate lunch spots and a must-try for anyone looking to explore authentic Hawaiian flavors.

Where to try it:

  • Young’s Kalbee (Aiea): A popular spot for Korean-style barbecue, including their flavorful meat jun.
  • Gina’s BBQ (Honolulu): Famous for their hearty portions of Meat Jun, this local gem also serves up favorites like kalbi ribs and BBQ chicken.

7. Saimin

Saimin is Hawaii’s version of a noodle soup, with a rich history influenced by Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino culinary traditions. This delicious, comforting soup features soft wheat noodles served in a flavorful broth, topped with a variety of ingredients like char siu (roast pork), green onions, boiled egg, and sometimes even fish cakes. It’s a great dish for any time of day, offering a perfect blend of savory, salty, and umami flavors.

Where to try it:

  • Tanaka Saimin (Honolulu): A beloved spot for authentic saimin with all the traditional toppings, served in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Shiro’s Saimin Haven (Aiea and Ewa Beach): A long-time favorite for delicious saimin with generous portions and rich, flavorful broth.