Ono (OH-no) is the Hawaiian word for delicious. The local food in Hawaii is influenced by the mixed plate of cultures and cuisines dating back to the plantation era — pork adobo, loco moco, lomi lomi salmon and lau lau are a few staple dishes. Here’s a list of “ono-licious” restaurants that are serving up hearty local favorites.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @locagetaways on Instagram to share the love.
Featured photo: Courtesy of Kiawe Roots
Keoki's Paradise
Located on the south shore of Kauai, Keoki’s offers tasty Hawaiian fare in a tropical setting, with live hula almost every night. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the fresh fish varies according to season, and can be prepared kalo crusted, baked in garlic, or miso glazed, just to name a few of the ono choices. There are also veggie, gluten-free, and local meats options. Open Monday through Friday 11am to 10pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 10pm.
Eating House 1849
An homage to one of Hawaii’s allegedly first restaurants that was called Eating House and opened in 1849, Roy Yamaguchi’s own restaurant honors the modern blend of Hawaiian culture. Some flavors have been fixtures of the culture since its origin, while others have been introduced only more recently — at Eating House 1849, you’ll be able to enjoy a meal that lets you immerse yourself in all of it at once. Try the blackened island ahi if you prefer seafood or opt for the 1849 spicy ramen bowl. Regardless, you’ll leave with a better understanding of modern Hawaiian cuisine and the desire to come back. royyamaguchi.com
Kiawe Roots
What is now recognized as Kiawe Roots had once only been in the food truck business, but has since become a restaurant that deliciously captures everything you’ll want from a modern Hawaiian dish. Their menu offerings vary from sandwiches like their crispy pulled pork sandwich to a selection of smoked meats such as brisket, and extends from breakfast to dinner. There are also specialty drinks, and plenty of choices both alcoholic and nonalcoholic so that anyone in your party can experience Kiawe Roots to the fullest. eatatkiawe.com
Did we miss your favorite restaurant?
Our always-hungry team of foodies have compiled this list.
Please let us know if we’ve missed your favorite eat@localgetaways.com.
Even though they were established only more recently in 2021, Longie’s is a beloved shaved ice spot that will both keep you cool and satisfy your sweet tooth. The shaved ice is served atop decadent vanilla ice cream, giving the traditional treat a twist that will make sense as soon as you take a bite. If shaved ice isn’t your preference, they also sell other refreshing treats such as shakes and lemonade. hanapepe.org
