10 Must-Try Local Foods in Waikiki: Eat Like a Local in Paradise
Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Japan and the mainland United States, the Hawaiian Islands boast fertile volcanic soils and a tropical climate.
The year-round good weather is prime for growing an array of fruits and vegetables while the surrounding ocean provides an abundance of fresh fish.
Hawaii’s history includes the convergence of various cultures and the merging of languages, cultures, and cuisines.
The islands are home to some tasty hybrid dishes, traditional food, and vibrant ingredients.
In this First Hawaii Cabin post, we’re highlighting 10 local foods that you must try while staying in Waikiki. Because one this is for sure, you’re going to eat well in the islands!
1. Poke
The iconic poke bowl is at the top of our list of must-try foods in Hawaii Nei.
The diversity of available fish means you’ll have plenty of types of poke to try from tako (octopus) and ahi (tuna) to aku (skipjack tuna) and more.
Local grocery stores like Foodland have cases selling various flavor combinations.
In Waikiki, you’ll find several options for poke like Maguro Brothers.
Or, venture up to Ono Seafood for a grab-and-go poke, on your way back to the beach.
Most restaurant menus feature variations of poke from Tiki’s Ahi Poke Wonton Sliders to ShoreFyre’s Poke Nachos.
2.Musubi
The Musubi has Japanese and Hawaiian roots and is usually made with three ingredients: white rice, nori, and protein.
The most popular is the Spam Musubi.
However, there are all kinds from vegan versions to more traditional Japanese rice balls.
Whatever flavor profile you choose, this handheld snack is a perfect bite when you’re on the go.
In Waikiki, grab them at the Musubi Cafe IYASUME, the organic Musubi shop, NanaMusubi, and most 7-Elevens!
3.Plate Lunch
This local favorite consists of two scoop rice, one scoop mac salad, and a hefty portion of protein—your choice.
Sample the real deal just outside Waikiki at Diamond Head Market & Grill and Rainbow Drive-In.
However, you’ll find Loco Mocos, Pork Katsu, and HuliHuli Chicken Plates on menus across Waikiki.
4. Saimin
This Hawaiian noodle soup might look like ramen but differs in its flavor profile.
It’s made of chicken broth, dashi, wheat noodles, char sui, and fishcakes, although there are several variations to this Hawaiian comfort food.
Order a bowl and see what you think.
Try Saimin at Rainbow Drive-In, Zippy’s, Liliha Bakery, and L&L Hawaiian Barbeque.
5. Malasadas
Originating from Portugal, the malasada is basically–a fried donut.
There’s a soft surgery texture on the outside and a sweet filling on the inside.
Indulge in a variety of flavors from haupia and lilikoi to chocolate and guava.
The most popular malasadas in Waikiki are just up Kapahulu Avenue at Leonard’s Bakery.
You can bite into these sugary sweets in the heart of Waikiki at Liliha Bakery and Penny’s Waikiki.
6. Garlic Shrimp
This popular dish has foodies returning, bite after bite.
The Garlic Shrimp Plate features shrimp, white rice, butter, oil, lemon, and a healthy amount of garlic. It’s simple, yet oh-so tasty.
It’s best with locally produced prawns like those from O’ahu’s North Shore and Kauai.
This staple dish is on most menus because it’s well-loved and well-received.
In Waikiki, you can savor it at the Waikiki Food Hall, Amy’s Shrimp and Poke Shack, Sam’s Kitchen, Blue Ocean Seafood & Steak, and more.
7. Huli Huli Chicken
Warm, smoky, and crispy with a juicy texture and a touch of sweetness, Huli Huli Chicken is good.
Huli is the Hawaiian word for turn, and these barbecued chickens are meant to be slowly rotated while continually basted with the teriyaki-like sauce.
Although the sauce ingredients alter, it usually features pineapple, garlic, sesame, and shoyu.
You’ll find this chicken sold across the islands in unsuspecting places like parking lots or on the side of the road.
In Waikiki, you can sample Huli Huli Chicken at Duke’s and Rainbow Drive-In.
8. Shave Ice
This refreshing treat is a must-eat when in the islands.
Shaved ice is scooped into a cone or dish, sometimes with a scoop of ice cream on the bottom, and flavored syrups poured all over. Pick your favorite combinations.
Opt for the healthy versions packed with fresh tropical fruits, local honey, or handmade mochi.
Find this sweetness in Waikiki at Waiola Shave Ice, Island Vintage Shave Ice, and.
9. Kālua Pork
Traditionally cooked in an imu (an underground cooking pit), pork is prepared slow and low.
In modern industrial kitchens, restaurants try their best to achieve the pulled pork’s tender, smoky, and salty flavors.
This tasty and popular dish is featured on many menus in a range of dishes from Kālua Pig Tacos and Kālua Pig BBQ Burgers to Kālua Pig and Cabbage and Kālua Pig Quesadillas.
Sample them all and find your favorite!
10.Manoa Chocolate
This locally made bean-to-bar chocolate is arguably some of the world’s best.
Local boy, Dylan Butterbaugh, started this chocolate company in his hometown of Kailua in 2010.
The Kailua Chocolate Factory has since expanded to a cacao farm on the North Shore and a storefront in Waikiki Beach.
Try the award-winning chocolate bars with flavor profiles that will delight and surprise you.
Eat Well & Indulge in Local Foods in Waikiki
From garlic shrimp plates and fresh poke bowls to refreshing shave ice and savory musubi snacks, Hawaii has incredible food.
Waikiki is packed with restaurants and shops boasting tasty meals every few steps.
Eat well, eat often, and try the best local foods in Waikiki. As always, we’re here at First Cabin Hawaii to point you in the direction of another delicious meal. Aloha!
