What to eat in Honolulu, HI?

HonoluluTraveller

What are the must-try foods and culinary experiences in Honolulu, HI, considering the unique mix of Hawaiian, Asian, and American influences? Could you highlight local dishes, street food, popular restaurants, and food markets that offer authentic flavors of Hawaii, including traditional Hawaiian dishes, fresh seafood, and fusion cuisines that reflect the diverse cultural landscape of Honolulu?

ChicagoTraveller

Honolulu offers a vibrant culinary scene that combines traditional Hawaiian flavors with influences from Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the mainland U.S. Here are some of the must-try foods and culinary experiences to enjoy while in Honolulu:

1. Poke

What is it? Poke (pronounced "poh-kay") is a Hawaiian dish made from fresh, raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, and other seasonings.
Where to try it: Head to Ono Seafood or Poke Stop for some of the freshest poke bowls in town, or visit the Ala Moana Farmers Market to sample different variations.

2. Loco Moco

What is it? Loco Moco is a comfort food consisting of a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It's a satisfying and hearty dish that showcases local flavors.
Where to try it: Rainbow Drive-In is a classic spot serving up this local favorite, along with other delicious plate lunches.

3. Spam Musubi

What is it? Spam Musubi is a sushi-like snack made with a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped with a strip of nori (seaweed). It’s a fusion of traditional Japanese and local Hawaiian ingredients.
Where to try it: You can find Spam Musubi at 7-Eleven stores, local markets, or specialty shops like Musubi Café Iyasume.

4. Huli Huli Chicken

What is it? Huli Huli Chicken is a marinated, grilled chicken, often cooked on an open flame and basted with a sweet and tangy sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and pineapple.
Where to try it: Huli Huli Chicken trucks and roadside stands often serve this dish, especially at local events or markets.

5. Plate Lunch

What is it? The plate lunch is a classic Hawaiian dish that typically includes a protein (such as teriyaki beef, grilled chicken, or fried fish), two scoops of rice, and a side of macaroni salad.
Where to try it: L\&L Hawaiian Barbecue and Aloha Kitchen serve some of the best plate lunches in Honolulu.

6. Shaved Ice

What is it? Shaved ice is a refreshing dessert made with finely shaved ice, topped with flavored syrups, condensed milk, and sometimes a scoop of ice cream. It’s perfect for cooling off in the tropical climate.
Where to try it: Matsumoto Shave Ice in the North Shore is a well-known spot, though there are plenty of shaved ice stands around Honolulu.

7. Saimin

What is it? Saimin is a noodle soup dish, similar to ramen, with a flavorful broth, springy noodles, and toppings such as char siu (roast pork), green onions, and sometimes a boiled egg or fish cakes.
Where to try it: Palace Saimin or Shimazu Store are great places to sample this local noodle soup.

8. Kalua Pig

What is it? Kalua pig is slow-cooked pork, traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu, giving it a smoky flavor. It’s often served as part of a traditional Hawaiian feast called a luau.
Where to try it: Helena’s Hawaiian Food and Zippy’s serve delicious Kalua pig dishes.

9. Manapua

What is it? Manapua is a steamed bun filled with savory fillings like char siu (sweet barbecued pork) or chicken. It’s Hawaii’s take on Chinese bao buns and makes for a delicious snack or breakfast.
Where to try it: Char Hung Sut and Royal Kitchen offer freshly made manapua in Honolulu.

10. Fresh Seafood

What to try: Honolulu’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means you can enjoy an array of fresh seafood, including fish, prawns, and shellfish. Sashimi, poke, and grilled fish are common ways to enjoy the catch of the day.
Where to try it: Visit The Crab Shack for fresh seafood, or Nico’s Pier 38 for a seafood feast with harbor views.

11. Poi

What is it? Poi is a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro root that is pounded into a paste and fermented. It has a smooth, slightly tangy flavor and is often served as a side dish with meats like Kalua pig.
Where to try it: Ono Hawaiian Foods is a local favorite for traditional Hawaiian dishes, including poi.

12. Hawaiian Coffee

What is it? Hawaii is famous for its coffee, particularly Kona Coffee, grown on the slopes of the Big Island’s volcanoes. It’s a rich, aromatic coffee that is a must-try when visiting Honolulu.
Where to try it: Island Vintage Coffee offers some of the best Kona coffee, as well as coffee blends and delicious pastries.

13. Taro Chips

What is it? Taro chips are a crunchy snack made from the taro root, often served as an appetizer or side dish. They have a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with poke or other Hawaiian dishes.
Where to try it: Look for them at local farmers markets or in restaurants like The Pig & The Lady.

14. Fried Rice

What is it? A popular side dish in many Hawaiian meals, fried rice is often made with a blend of vegetables, eggs, and spam or leftover meats. It’s a flavorful and filling addition to plate lunches.
Where to try it: Ted’s Bakery and The Counter offer tasty fried rice options.

15. Coconut Shrimp

What is it? Coconut shrimp is a popular dish made by coating shrimp in shredded coconut and frying them until crispy. It’s a sweet and savory seafood dish that reflects the island's tropical flavors.
Where to try it: Visit Aloha Shrimp or Hawaiian Style Café to enjoy freshly prepared coconut shrimp.

16. Ulu (Breadfruit)

What is it? Ulu, or breadfruit, is a starchy tropical fruit that is often roasted, mashed, or fried. It’s similar to potatoes in texture and is a great alternative to rice or potatoes.
Where to try it: Mama’s Fish House or local Hawaiian restaurants often feature ulu on their menu.

Conclusion

Honolulu offers a culinary adventure with unique flavors and dishes that highlight the diversity and rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. From fresh seafood and traditional Hawaiian comfort foods to modern fusion dishes, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy every palate. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or dining at a top-tier restaurant, Honolulu's food scene is sure to impress.