What to Eat in Oahu

As a popular travel destination, Oahu’s rich cultural history is deeply woven into its culinary fabric. The Native Hawaiians introduced dishes that continue to be island staples. Influence from Japanese, Portuguese, Asian, and American immigrants shines through the fusion of flavors. This unique blend of cultures on the island has led to the evolution of what is now known as Hawaii’s ‘local food’, a cuisine that embodies the spirit of aloha with every bite. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to international cuisines, there is something to satisfy every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore some must-try Oahu delicacies and where to find them.

Unmistakably Hawaiian, the Loco Moco is a beloved breakfast dish that perfectly encapsulates the fusion of cultures in Oahu’s cuisine. This hearty meal consists of a bed of rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a sunny-side-up egg, and a generous drizzle of brown gravy. Created in the 1940s, the Loco Moco has since become a staple dish in local Hawaiian cuisine and a must-try for every visitor. For the best Loco Moco, visit the Rainbow Drive-In, a popular joint among locals and tourists alike, where you can enjoy this delightful dish alongside other Hawaiian classics in a cozy, retro-style setting. Another excellent spot is the Liliha Bakery, an institution in Honolulu known for its version of Loco Moco featuring a unique and tasty twist—the addition of their signature chili

Start your day in Oahu with a nutritious and tasty Acai Bowl – a popular breakfast choice among locals and tourists alike. This vibrant dish features a smoothie base made from the Acai berry, a superfood known for its health benefits. The Acai puree is usually topped with a variety of fresh fruits, granola, and a drizzle of honey, creating a bowl bursting with flavors and textures. Numerous cafes and food trucks around the island offer their unique take on the Acai Bowl, allowing you to discover your personal favorite. This delightful breakfast option provides a refreshing start to the day, energizing you for the adventures that Oahu has in store. You can find some of the best Acai Bowls in Oahu at places like Haleiwa Bowls, da Cove Health Bar & Cafe, and Island Vintage Coffee. Each place adds its unique twist to the bowl, making each experience a unique one.

This unique concoction, a fusion of Japanese and American influences, features a slice of grilled Spam on a block of rice, all wrapped together with nori (dried seaweed). It’s the Hawaiian take on sushi and is as portable as it is delicious. You can find Spam Musubi at nearly every convenience store and supermarket on the island, making it a quick and affordable breakfast choice. It might seem an unusual breakfast item to visitors, but once tried, it often becomes an instant favorite. The salty, savory Spam paired with the mild, sticky rice offers a delightful balance of flavors that will kickstart your day on a tasty note. You’ll find this savory delight in various convenience stores across the island. However, one of the best places to sample Spam Musubi is ‘Musubi Cafe Iyasume‘, a small eatery in Waikiki known for its extensive range of Musubi variations.

Poké, pronounced ‘poh-kay’, is a staple dish in Hawaiian cuisine and a must-try for any visitor to Oahu. This traditional dish is made from chunks of raw, marinated fish – usually tuna – tossed over rice and garnished with flavorful toppings like scallions, sesame seeds, chili peppers, and a variety of sauces. Poké bowls are a testament to the freshness of island seafood and embody the harmony between Asian influences and native Hawaiian culinary traditions. If you’re seeking the true taste of Oahu, you can find exceptional poké at places like Ono Seafood, Ahi Assassins Fish Co., and Maguro Brothers Hawaii. These establishments pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced fish, ensuring each poké bowl is bursting with flavor and island authenticity.

No culinary journey in Oahu would be complete without experiencing the traditional Hawaiian dish of kalua pig. This staple of island cuisine is a centerpiece at Hawaiian Luaus and is renowned for its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture. Traditionally, the pig is slow-cooked in an underground oven, or ‘imu’, for several hours. The result is a succulent, pull-apart meat that melts in your mouth – a testament to the magic of slow cooking. You could enjoy this delicacy at authentic Hawaiian establishments like Helena’s Hawaiian Food or at a luau events and dinner show and events, where you can enjoy your meal alongside traditional Polynesian entertainment. The kalua pig is indeed a taste of Oahu that embraces its deep-rooted traditions and communal spirit.

Hawaii’s comfort food scene would be incomplete without mentioning saimin, a beloved noodle soup that is as hearty as it is flavorful. This humble dish, reminiscent of Japanese ramen, Chinese mein, and Filipino pancit, truly exemplifies Hawaii’s melting pot of cultures. It typically features soft wheat egg noodles served in a hot dashi broth. Garnishes often include green onions, kamaboko (Japanese fish cake), char siu pork, and a savory sheet of nori. Perfect for any time of the day, saimin can be found across Oahu, from local food courts to high-end restaurants. For an authentic taste of this local favorite, head to Palace Saimin or Shige’s Saimin Stand, both renowned for their traditional preparation methods and delicious flavors.

When it comes to seafood in Oahu, a standout favorite is the grilled mahi mahi. This sumptuous fish, known for its firm texture and sweet, mild flavor, is a staple on the island. Often marinated in a blend of tropical fruits, soy sauce, and local spices, the mahi mahi is then grilled to perfection, often served with a side of coconut-infused rice or a fresh, vibrant salad. You’ll find this dish in many places, but for a truly unforgettable experience, check out Hula Grill Waikiki, which offers a stunning beachfront view to accompany your meal. The Nico’s Pier 38 also offers an outstanding grilled mahi mahi, served with their signature Furikake rice. This dish truly captures the essence of Oahu’s delectable seafood offerings.

As you delve deeper into Oahu’s vibrant culinary scene, one seafood dish you can’t overlook is tako, also known as octopus. Tako is a staple in many Hawaiian dishes, often served either raw in poke bowls or cooked as a main course. Tamura’s Market in Honolulu is particularly renowned for their tako poke, which features tender octopus chunks marinated in a savory sauce. If you prefer your seafood cooked, Uncle’s Fish Market & Grill serves up a beautifully grilled tako, seasoned to perfection and bursting with the taste of the sea. Trying tako is an essential part of the Oahu dining experience, offering a unique taste of Hawaiian seafood cuisine.

No trip to Oahu would be complete without trying shave ice, a delicious and refreshing local dessert that is perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat. Originating from Japan and brought to Hawaii by plantation workers, this popular treat consists of finely shaved ice, as fluffy as fresh snow, generously drizzled with a variety of sweet, colorful syrups. Traditional flavors include strawberry, vanilla, and tropical fruits like mango and passionfruit. Often, shave ice is served over a scoop of ice cream or alongside sweet azuki beans, and topped with a dollop of condensed milk. There are countless places to enjoy shave ice in Oahu, but some favorites include Matsumoto Shave Ice in Haleiwa and Waiola Shave Ice in Honolulu. Both offer a wide range of flavors and toppings, allowing you to customize your icy delight. Whether you’re a first-timer or a long-time fan, shave ice is a must-try dessert when visiting Oahu.

If you have a sweet tooth, then you must not miss out on trying malasadas, a type of Portuguese donut that has become a beloved treat in Hawaii. These fluffy, sugar-coated delights are typically fried until they achieve a golden-brown exterior and then generously dusted with granulated sugar. While the traditional version is unfilled, in Hawaii, you’ll often find malasadas filled with tropical flavors like guava, passion fruit, or coconut cream. Leonard’s Bakery in Honolulu has been serving these delectable treats since 1952 and is often touted as the go-to place for the best malasadas on the island. Whether you prefer them plain or filled with luscious cream, malasadas offers a taste of Hawaii’s culinary fusion at its best.

Haupia is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Oahu. This traditional Hawaiian dessert is a simple, yet delectable, coconut milk-based treat that strikes a pleasing balance between a creamy pudding and a jelly-like consistency. The rich and creamy coconut flavor is refreshing and not overly sweet, making it the perfect palate cleanser after indulging in the island’s savory dishes. You can find this delightful dessert at many local establishments, but a notable mention is Ted’s Bakery on the North Shore, which serves a legendary Chocolate Haupia Cream Pie – a fusion of haupia and chocolate cream that will have you coming back for seconds.

See More: Best Desserts in Oahu

The island’s rich cultural history, combined with its stunning natural bounty, has given rise to a culinary scene that elevates diversity and flavor to new heights. Oahu offers a unique gastronomic journey, from bustling food markets and street-side stalls to high-end restaurants. Whether you’re indulging in a breakfast of Spam Musubi, savoring a traditional ‘poke’ for lunch, or treating yourself to a ‘malasada’ dessert, every meal on Oahu is an adventure in itself. Each bite gives you a taste of the island’s spirit and culture, making Oahu not just a feast for your eyes, but also a paradise for your palate.