Hawaii is the perfect tropical getaway with its white beaches, lush forests, and friendly hospitality but what makes the trip worth it is the unique Hawaiian cuisine found on each island. While there are multiple worthwhile stops for all three meals of the day, this is the ultimate list of the best authentic food and where to find them.
Oahu
Oahu is the third-largest Hawaiian island and is home to the state capital Honolulu as well as the famous Wakiki beach. Here are some of the hole-in-the-wall places that locals swear by:
Sweet E’s Cafe
This charming cafe is the perfect breakfast spot in Honolulu. It is rated #1 on Tripadvisor and has received several awards such as “Best Breakfast” for Hawaii’s Best and the 2018 Hale Aina award. Breakfast is served all day with delicious options like omelettes, fruity french toast, pancakes, and breakfast burritos. It is within a low price range and the portions are large. Sweet E’s was started by Ethel Matthews who strives to provide quality food in a welcoming environment, locals and tourists alike agree that she has achieved this goal.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food
If you’re on the hunt for traditional Hawaiian food, Helena’s Hawaiian Food is the place to be! This four and a half star restaurant is located 10 minutes away from downtown Honolulu and 13 minutes away from Magic Island Beach. Helenas was featured on the famous TV series Man vs. Food for its pork ribs, poi and coconut pudding. They take online orders and many of their delicious choices are available ala carte.
La Mer
A five star experience awaits you at La Mer where French cuisine is served overlooking the Wakiki beachside. The restaurant has an enticing, romantic atmosphere with an array of cocktails and fine wine. The guests are expected to wear formal attire as it is the most prestigious dinner venue on the island. The food is carefully plated and seasoned with local and tropical flavors. There are plenty of tables overlooking the beach as well making this spot the perfect place for a celebration or a romantic getaway.
Matusumoto’s Shave Ice
If you have a sweet tooth craving, look no further. Matumoto’s serves classic Hawaiian shaved ice, creamy ice cream and homemade flavors for an affordable cost. A typical shave ice at Matsumoto’s involves ice, a fruity syrup, and mochi ice cream. Mochi ice cream is a typical delicacy from Asia with a pounded sticky rice outside and a cool creamy inside. It is the perfect treat to cool down after basking in the glowing Hawaiian sun!
Maui
The island of Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and is known for the ravishing beaches, Volcanic National Parks, waterfalls and views of the nearby humpback whales that can be seen from the shore.
All Kine Maui Grindz Food Truck
This popular food truck features yummy hawaiian dishes as well as friendly staff. There are several seafood dishes such as shrimp, noodles, spring rolls. Outdoor and indoor seating is available to all who come to try their authentic cuisine! The entrees are nicely seasoned and the portions are enough to enjoy with the whole family. Don’t be surprised if you see almost every table filled up! Tourists come from all around the world to enjoy this special taste of Maui.
Maui Gelato
Unlike the many Hawaiian shave ice places, Maui Gelato offers a wide variety of gelatos, ice creams and custards. They are known for their Belgian waffles covered in ice cream with your choice of syrup and fruit. They serve pretzels too and are conveniently located near several beaches on the western side of the island. Stop by after a swim in the ocean!
Paia Fish Market
This seafood restaurant offers a wide variety of cuisine that is affordable and highly rated. They have fajitas, quesadillas, pastas, salads and let’s not forget the classic homestyle fish and chips. They have vegetarian and gluten free options and their service is fast with a high quality product that will make you want to come back for more.
Nalu’s South Shore Grill
Nalu’s Grill is located in the Akeza shopping center only a five minute walk away from Maui’s beach. They have flexible hours and their acai fruit bowls is what sets them apart from other restaurants on the beachfront. Nalu’s is Hawaii’s hottest dinner show with the live music available to enjoy every Saturday evening.
Kauai
Kauai nicked the “Garden isle” due to the tropical rainforest covering the majority of this Hawaiian island. Its shores have been the backdrop for several Hollywood films as well as the canyons and mountain ranges.
Kalaheo Cafe and Coffee Company
This popular American-style brunch restaurant has a coffee bar and fresh baked goods. They are working hard to provide savory breakfast treats while also respecting social distancing and keeping their customers safe. They have both savory and sweet options for all to appreciate. Although they are busy, the wait isn’t long and the staff is friendly. The restaurant has a relaxed breakfast environment and there is outdoor seating available if you’d prefer to sip coffee while listening to the sounds of the waves.
Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs
Puka Dog are a hot commodity on Kauai island. Puka dogs have a sweet bun, secret garlic lemon sauce and fresh fruit. They come with the choice of a polish dog or a veggie dog. With the glamourous online reviews, it’s likely that you’ll meet people from all over the world dining there in order to try these famous hot dogs. Puka dogs have been seen on TV, they’re not your average hot dog!
Kauai Juice Company
If you are looking for a way to rehydrate after an active day on the beach, Kauai Juice Company has an array of healthy cold-pressed juices with major health benefits. They have over sixteen different juice flavors as well as milk substitutes and kombucha. If you’re on the go to your next Hawaiian adventure, they have salads and snacks that will help to keep your energy level up and calorie count down.
Hukilau Lanai
This plantation-style restaurant features food and wine tasting, live music and elegant gardens. All of their produce is local, their meats, coffees, cheeses and spices come from nearby ensuring that the guests enjoy the natural food. They serve alcohol and have a special gluten-free menu. They are willing to work with dietary restrictions and serve fish straight from the ocean!
Acanela offers an adventurous expedition to the Hawaiian Islands complete with surfing, swimming, hiking, and guided tours of historical sites. Learn how to make traditional Hawaiian dishes with a professional chef while visiting Maui. You won’t want to miss this relaxing tropical vacation, sign up for a professional tour today!
Post written by Annelin Stephens