Best Local Food in Hawaii by Island: Eat Like a Local

What Defines “Local Food” in Hawaii?

Local food in Hawaii isn’t just about traditional Hawaiian cuisine—though that’s a big part of it. It’s a fusion of cultures brought together over generations. You’ll find dishes influenced by Japanese, Filipino, Korean, Portuguese, and Chinese food, often served together on one plate. Think: plate lunches stacked with rice, mac salad, and meats like kalbi or shoyu chicken, or a fresh scoop of poke from a market near the beach. It’s comfort food with deep roots and a flavor that reflects the islands’ diverse communities.

Poke is pretty popular in the islands.
Spicy Ahi Tuna Poke by Foodista is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original

Best Local Food on Oʻahu

Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Kalihi)

This James Beard Award-winning spot is one of the most iconic places to try traditional Hawaiian dishes like pipikaula short ribs, lau lau, lomi salmon, and poi. Don’t expect fancy interiors—this is all about old-school flavors and local legacy.

Ono Seafood (Kapahulu)

Arguably Oʻahu’s favorite poke spot, Ono Seafood keeps it simple and flavorful. The poke is made fresh to order, and locals rave about the spicy ahi and shoyu ahi served over warm rice.

Mitsu-Ken (Kalihi)

If you’ve never had garlic chicken from Mitsu-Ken, you’re missing out. This no-frills bento shop sells out fast, so go early for the best chance at grabbing a box of their cult-favorite garlic chicken plate.

Ethel’s Grill (Kalihi)

A local institution hidden in plain sight. The menu is eclectic—think Japanese teishoku meals with Hawaiian twists—and portions are hearty. The tataki sashimi and hamburger steak are go-to dishes.

Seven Brothers (North Shore)

This family-owned burger joint has built a loyal following with its stacked, juicy burgers and casual island vibe. Located in several spots including Laie and Kahuku, Seven Brothers offers unique creations like the Shem Burger and Paniolo Burger, topped with crispy onions and house-made sauces. Every bite is a flavor bomb, and the portions are generous. It’s a perfect post-beach meal—hearty, messy, and loaded with aloha spirit. Plus, the laid-back North Shore setting makes it easy to kick back and enjoy the moment.

Best Local Food on Maui

Tin Roof (Kahului)

Owned by Top Chef alum Sheldon Simeon, Tin Roof is a casual takeout joint that packs serious flavor. Menu staples include mochiko chicken, garlic shrimp, and saimin, all served over rice with creative toppings. Locals love the rotating specials and generous portions.

Sam Sato’s (Wailuku)

A true Maui classic, Sam Sato’s is known for its dry mein—a noodle dish with no broth, tossed with savory sauce and green onions. It’s been a go-to lunch spot for generations. Don’t forget to grab some fresh-baked manju on the way out.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (Multiple Locations)

Shave ice is a must on a warm Maui day, and Ululani’s does it best. With flavors made from real fruit and cane sugar, and options like mochi balls and condensed milk drizzle, this isn’t your average shave ice stand.

Tasty Crust (Wailuku)

A no-frills diner with serious local history, Tasty Crust is famous for its fluffy, golden pancakes—but the rest of the menu is just as legit. From loco moco to teri beef plates, this place serves up real-deal island comfort food. It’s a favorite with locals looking for hearty breakfasts and affordable lunches in a classic, old-school setting. Don’t be surprised if there’s a wait—the food and friendly vibe are worth it.

Best Local Food on Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island)

Kaaloa’s Super J’s (Captain Cook)

This roadside gem specializes in laulau, and it doesn’t get more authentic than this. Family-run and full of aloha, Super J’s delivers tender pork wrapped in taro leaves, cooked to perfection. A true Big Island treasure.

Suisan Fish Market (Hilo)

If you’re into poke, Suisan is the place to go. Situated right on the bay, this local fish market offers a wide variety of poke—spicy, shoyu, wasabi, and more—all made fresh daily. Grab a bowl and eat outside with a view.

Hawaiian Style Cafe (Waimea & Hilo)

Portions here are massive, and the menu is pure comfort food. From loco moco to Portuguese sausage and eggs, this is where you go to fuel up before a long day of exploring. Local-style breakfasts are their specialty.

The Korner Pocket (Kealakekua)

A lesser-known but well-loved bar and grill, The Korner Pocket offers solid plate lunches and good vibes. It’s the kind of place where locals hang out, eat, and talk story. A great spot for casual dining in the Kona area.  My personal spot to hang out right down the street from my Kealakekua house.  I highly recommend the Mai Tais (Best deal on the island) and the french dip sandwich.   

Best Local Food on Kauaʻi

Hamura Saimin (Lihue)

Hamura Saimin is one of Kauaʻi’s most iconic local restaurants. Their signature saimin—a Hawaiian noodle soup influenced by Japanese ramen and Chinese lo mein—is comforting, flavorful, and served up with a slice of lilikoi chiffon pie that’s equally famous.

Pono Market (Kapaʻa)

Walk in, grab a bento or poke bowl, and head straight to the beach. Pono Market is all about no-fuss, delicious food. Everything is made fresh daily, and their poke selection includes local favorites like limu and spicy ahi.

Mark’s Place (Puhi)

Well off the tourist path, Mark’s Place serves generous portions of mixed plates, fried saimin, and desserts like bread pudding and butter mochi. It’s a favorite lunch stop for local workers and savvy foodies alike.

Koloa Fish Market (Koloa)

This tiny shop near Poʻipū is packed with flavor. Known for excellent poke and authentic Hawaiian lunch plates, Koloa Fish Market is a quick-stop favorite. Be prepared to wait in line—it’s worth it.

Tips for Finding Local Eats

If you want to eat like a local in Hawaii, there are a few golden rules. First, follow the locals—lines at odd-looking buildings or food trucks are usually a good sign. Second, avoid hotel restaurants and chain spots. While they might look convenient, they rarely serve the most authentic flavors. Third, get out of the main tourist zones. Some of the best meals are found in quiet neighborhoods or small towns just off the beaten path.

What to Order: Must-Try Dishes

Not sure where to start? These are the dishes that locals love and visitors need to try at least once:

• Plate lunch: Usually includes two scoops of rice, mac salad, and a protein like teriyaki beef, fried chicken, or kalbi ribs.  You’re totally safe sharing one of these.  Unless you’re really looking to take a nap later.
• Poke: Raw fish cubes seasoned with shoyu, sesame oil, onions, and chili pepper. Ahi (tuna) and tako (octopus) are most common, but options like limu (seaweed) or wasabi poke are also popular.  My favorite spot for Poke is either KTA or Foodland markets.  It’s cheap, get it to go on your way to the beach.
• Lau lau and kalua pig: Traditional Hawaiian dishes—lau lau is pork wrapped in taro leaves, while kalua pig is slow-cooked, smoky shredded pork.
• Saimin: Hawaii’s own noodle soup influenced by Japanese ramen and Chinese wonton soup. Usually served with kamaboko, spam, and green onions.
• Loco moco: A bed of rice topped with a hamburger patty, brown gravy, and a fried egg—ultimate comfort food.  To say it’s filling doesn’t even scratch the surface.

Supporting Local Businesses

Choosing local food spots over national chains doesn’t just taste better—it also helps keep Hawaii’s economy healthy. Many of these mom-and-pop shops have been serving their communities for decades, often passing down recipes and techniques through generations. Supporting them means preserving a piece of cultural history. Plus, the money stays in the islands, helping families and small farmers thrive.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

When eating local in Hawaii, a little respect goes a long way. Many of these places are family-run and serve generations of regulars. Be patient during peak hours, clean up after yourself, and remember that you’re a guest in the community. Saying “mahalo” (thank you) and showing appreciation can turn a great meal into a memorable experience.

Finding the best local food in Hawaii means getting a little off the beaten path and trusting your taste buds. From roadside poke counters to humble saimin stands, the islands are full of unforgettable meals that tell a story. Whether you’re on Oʻahu, Maui, Big Island, or Kauaʻi, there’s no shortage of flavor waiting to be discovered—if you know where to look. Eat with curiosity, support local, and you’ll experience the islands in the most authentic way possible.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between Hawaiian food and local food?

Hawaiian food refers specifically to traditional Native Hawaiian dishes like poi, laulau, and kalua pig. Local food is a broader term that includes the multicultural mix of cuisines you’ll find across Hawaii, influenced by Japanese, Filipino, Korean, Portuguese, and Chinese food.

2. Is poke safe to eat everywhere in Hawaii?

Generally, yes—especially from reputable markets and local shops. If it’s busy and locals are lining up, it’s usually fresh. Avoid overly touristy spots with long display times.

3. What’s a typical price for a local plate lunch?

Most plate lunches range from $10 to $16 depending on location and protein. In more rural areas or non-touristy neighborhoods, you might find it for a bit less.

4. Are local food places usually cash only?

Some are. While more places now take cards, it’s still smart to carry some cash, especially if you’re going away from the bigger towns.  The best old school places will probably only accept cash.  Don’t count on your card.

5. Can I find good local food at the airport?

You might find a few decent options, especially in Honolulu, but the best local food is almost always found in the community. Grab something before heading to the airport if you want the real deal.  My favorite spot near the airport is Aloha Sushi.  It’s about 5 minutes away.  When I pick someone up, or if I’m on my way back home from a flight, that’s my spot to get a few sushi rolls to share.

More of our most recent posts: