Manapua – One of the Best Foods in Hawaii

When you think of the best foods in Hawaii, Manapua should be at the top of your list. This iconic snack has roots in Chinese cuisine but has become uniquely Hawaiian over the years. Manapua is essentially a large, fluffy steamed bun filled with savory goodness.

Traditionally, it is stuffed with char siu pork, a sweet and salty barbecue pork that is bursting with flavor. However, in Hawaii, you will find Manapua with various fillings, from chicken curry to sweet red bean paste.

However, Manapua is more than just a snack. It is a part of Hawaii’s cultural fabric. You will find it at local convenience stores, food trucks, and bakeries across the islands. Its portability makes it a perfect on-the-go meal for beach days or hikes. Thus, the combination of the soft, pillowy bun and the rich, flavorful filling makes Manapua a truly satisfying experience.

Poke

Pronounced “poh-keh,” this dish is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and has become popular worldwide. Poke is typically made with fresh, raw fish – usually ahi tuna – cut into cubes and mixed with various seasonings.

The most traditional version includes soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, and green onions. But in Hawaii, you will find endless variations, including spicy mayo, avocado, and even pickled jalapeños.

Foody / Available in multifarious variations, Poke is by far the best Hawaiian food to try!

You bet! Poke is the perfect dish for those who appreciate fresh, high-quality ingredients. It is light, healthy, and incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm Hawaiian day. Many locals grab a bowl of poke from their favorite market and head straight to the beach.

Fish Tacos

Sure! Fish tacos might not be native to Hawaii, but they have become a beloved part of the island’s culinary scene. These tacos, made with freshly caught fish, are among the best foods in Hawaii, showcasing the state’s rich ocean resources. The fish, often Mahi Mahi or Ono, is grilled or fried to perfection and served in a soft tortilla.

Topped with fresh ingredients like shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are a flavorful explosion in every bite.

However, what makes fish tacos in Hawaii special is the unbeatable freshness of the fish. It is common to find fish tacos served at beachside shacks where the catch of the day is brought in just hours before being cooked.

Loco Moco

This hearty dish is as delicious as it is filling, consisting of a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. The first bite is a warm, savory explosion of flavors that feels like a hug from the inside out.

Wine & Dine / Loco Moco was invented in the 1940s in Hilo, Hawaii, and has since become a beloved dish across the islands. You bet! It is one of the best Hawaiian foods.

Loco Moco is the kind of dish that leaves a lasting impression. It is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is especially satisfying after a day of exploring. The combination of tender beef, rich gravy, and runny egg yolk over rice is pure comfort on a plate.

While it may not be the lightest meal, it is certainly one of the most flavorful and hearty. If you are looking for a true taste of Hawaii’s local cuisine, Loco Moco is a must-try.

Garlic Shrimp

This dish is particularly popular on the North Shore of Oahu, where shrimp trucks serve up plates piled high with buttery, garlicky shrimp. The shrimp are usually sautéed in a generous amount of garlic and butter, sometimes with a touch of lemon juice, and served with a side of white rice. The result is a dish that is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying.

However, what sets Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp apart is the abundance of fresh, local shrimp. The North Shore is famous for its shrimp farms, ensuring that the shrimp you are eating are as fresh as they come. The strong garlic flavor is balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp and the softness of the rice. Of course, it is one of the best foods in Hawaii.