Top 20 Must-Try Hawaiian Dishes- A Culinary Journey Through the Islands’ Favorite Foods

What are 20 popular foods in Hawaii? Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also boasts a unique culinary scene that blends traditional Hawaiian flavors with influences from Asia, Europe, and the Pacific Islands. From fresh seafood to exotic tropical fruits, here are 20 popular foods that you must try when visiting the Aloha State.

1. Poke: A staple of Hawaiian cuisine, poke is a raw fish salad typically made with ahi tuna, salmon, or octopus. It’s seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a variety of spices, and often served with seaweed and sweet potato chips.

2. Lomi Lomi Salmon: Another popular Hawaiian dish, lomi lomi salmon is a savory salad made with chunks of cooked salmon, onions, tomatoes, and limu (seaweed). It’s seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes coconut milk.

3. Kalua Pig: This traditional Hawaiian dish is slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pork is seasoned with salt, sugar, and a blend of spices, resulting in a tender, juicy flavor.

4. Spam Musubi: A popular street food, spam musubi is a block of rice pressed together with a slice of Spam and nori (seaweed) on top. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack that’s perfect for on-the-go.

5. Poi: A traditional Hawaiian staple, poi is a mashed taro root that’s been cooked and pounded into a paste. It has a unique, slightly sweet and starchy taste and is often served with fish, meat, or vegetables.

6. Shave Ice: Also known as “shaved ice” or “snow cone,” this tropical treat is made with ice that’s shaved into fine crystals and sweetened with a variety of syrups, such as mango, strawberry, or lilikoi (passion fruit).

7. Lahui: A savory snack made with sweet potato, poi, and salt, lahui is often enjoyed with a side of butter or ali’i (onion).

8. Malasadas: These Portuguese-style donuts are a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They’re deep-fried, coated in sugar, and can be filled with a variety of flavors, such as custard, chocolate, or guava.

9. Haupia: A traditional Hawaiian dessert made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and arrowroot powder. It has a creamy, jelly-like texture and is often served chilled.

10. Papaya Salad: A refreshing salad made with ripe papaya, green onions, tomatoes, chili peppers, and lime juice. It’s seasoned with fish sauce and served with a side of steamed vegetables.

11. Chicken Katsu: A Japanese-inspired dish, chicken katsu is breaded and fried chicken that’s served with a side of Japanese curry and rice.

12. Loco Moco: A classic Hawaiian dish that consists of rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s often served with a scoop of macaroni salad.

13. Paniolo Pork: A dish named after the Hawaiian cowboys, paniolo pork is a slow-cooked pork shoulder that’s seasoned with a blend of spices and served with poi and greens.

14. Saimin: A Chinese-inspired noodle soup, saimin is made with a rich broth, rice noodles, and a variety of toppings, such as beef, tofu, and vegetables.

15. Pig Tail Soup: A traditional Hawaiian soup made with pork tail, tomatoes, onions, and taro leaves. It’s seasoned with salt, pepper, and a blend of spices, and often served with rice.

16. Sweet Bread: A sweet, eggy bread that’s often made with pineapple, coconut, or other tropical fruits. It’s a popular breakfast item and can be found at many local bakeries.

17. Taro Cake: A dense, moist cake made with taro, sugar, eggs, and coconut milk. It’s a traditional Hawaiian dessert that’s often served with a scoop of ice cream.

18. Shave Ice with Macadamia Nuts: A twist on the classic shave ice, this treat is topped with a generous amount of macadamia nuts, giving it a rich, nutty flavor.

19. Tropical Fruit Salad: A colorful and refreshing salad made with a variety of tropical fruits, such as pineapple, papaya, banana, and mango. It’s often served with a side of vanilla ice cream.

20. Lava Bread: A sweet bread that’s made with chocolate chips and coconut flakes. It’s a unique twist on the traditional sweet bread and is a must-try for chocolate lovers.

Hawaii’s diverse culinary scene offers a wide range of delicious dishes that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage. From savory snacks to sweet treats, these 20 popular foods are sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor to the Aloha State.