The Top 10 Foods & Drinks You Absolutely Must Experience in Hawaii

A cruise to Hawaii promises an abundance of tropical beauty. The Hawaiian Islands, featuring eight main islands along with stunning beaches and coastlines, provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying sunny days and tasting the local delights during your vacation.

You can choose to cruise to Hawaii from either Long Beach/Los Angeles, San Diego, or Vancouver, Canada. Depending on your cruise itinerary, you'll have the chance to visit several ports of call, including Hilo, Kona, Kauai, Maui, and Honolulu.

During your holiday, you'll savor delightful onboard meals, ranging from gourmet chef creations to quick snack options. But don’t forget to carve out some time to explore the unique flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. Here are 10 must-try dishes and drinks to enjoy on your next Hawaiian cruise.

1. Poke

A favorite among both locals and tourists, poke is a delectable dish made with simple yet flavorful ingredients. The traditional recipe features ahi tuna, cut into small cubes and mixed with onions, sesame seeds, limu seaweed, and soy sauce. Variations may include other types of fresh fish or even octopus. Its popularity has spread beyond Hawaii, with poke appearing in restaurants across the mainland.

2. Poi

This classic side dish is made from taro root, a vegetable similar to sweet potato. The taro is baked or steamed, then pounded and blended with water to create a thick, creamy paste. There are many ways to enjoy poi: mix it with shredded pork or lomi lomi salmon, savor it by the spoonful, or use it as a delicious dipping sauce.

3. Lomi Lomi Salmon

While it shares the raw fish element with poke, lomi lomi salmon is crafted through distinct methods. The salted salmon is gently massaged repeatedly, then combined with onions, tomatoes, and spicy peppers. This preparation results in a deliciously tangy flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

4. Kalua Pua’a

This dish consists of pork that is slow-cooked in an underground oven, yielding meat that falls off the bone with ease. The wood smoke infuses the pork with a rich, robust flavor, eliminating the need for additional sauces. Served over rice, kalua pua’a makes for a hearty and fulfilling meal.

5. Lau Lau

Returning to the taro plant, this dish highlights the leaves. Lau lau consists of large taro leaves wrapped around pork or fish, which is then placed in an underground oven. After several hours of slow cooking, the result is smoky, tender meat paired with soft leaves. This dish is perfect for everything from festive gatherings to cozy dinners for two.

6. Haupia

Curious about dessert options? This delightful treat will make your mouth water. Haupia is a traditional dessert made from luscious coconut. The coconut cream is mixed with arrowroot powder and then baked underground. In modern variations, the cream is often boiled with cornstarch for thickening before being chilled in the fridge. No matter the preparation, haupia is sure to please your sweet cravings after a hearty meal.

7. Pipi Kalua

If you're in the mood for beef jerky, this Hawaiian-style version will have you coming back for more. Flank steak is usually dried outdoors or in a drying box before being charbroiled to achieve a deep, smoky flavor. It's commonly marinated in various sauces or combined with other flavorful condiments as well.

8. Loco Moco

For locals, this dish represents the ultimate comfort food. What could be more satisfying than a hamburger patty smothered in gravy and topped with a fried egg, all served over a generous mound of rice? It's hearty, delicious, and guaranteed to brighten your day.

9. Manapua

A steamed bun filled with a delightful assortment, manapua pays tribute to the Chinese immigrants who arrived in Hawaii during the 1800s. While it retains its identity as a popular street food, it has evolved to include a variety of savory fillings, such as sweet beans, chicken, vegetables, curry, and sweet potato. Many still feature the original pork filling as well.

10. Hawaiian Cocktails and Drinks

What would a Hawaiian evening be without a refreshing cocktail? Pair it with your meal or enjoy it while watching the sun dip below the horizon. In Hawaii, it's time to relax and embrace the laid-back lifestyle. There are many cocktails to explore, with popular choices including Blue Hawaii, Mai Tai, and Lava Flow. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try the pineapple iced tea, virgin piña colada, or tropical smoothies to savor the local flavors just as much.

Experience a luxurious and stylish journey to Hawaii on your next Dinogo cruise, and prepare for an unforgettable getaway. You'll be excited to try the local Hawaiian delicacies, each one tempting you to indulge again. With its breathtaking beaches and warm, friendly atmosphere, Hawaii is just a cruise away.