Albeit small in comparison to most mainland states, the Hawaiian Islands can be difficult to navigate: long Hawaiian street names can be difficult to pronounce and even harder to find, and a standard GPS doesn't always work as well as we would hope. These 13 little-known eateries found across the four main Hawaiian Islands can be tricky to find, but are well worth the search.
1. Maguro Brothers Hawaii, Honolulu
Located within the Kekaulike Marketplace, Maguro's Brother may be tricky to find, but their fresh poke and sashimi are to die for.1039 Kekaulike St #113, Honolulu, HI 96817
2. Tin Roof Maui, Kahului
Serving up mouthwatering Hawaiian eats with an emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practice, Tin Roof Maui is much more than just a strip mall eatery. 360 Papa Pl y, Kahului, HI 96732
3. Verde, Kapa’a
For a new Mexican twist on traditional Mexican favorites, head to this casual cafe known for their delicious salsas.4-1101 Kuhio Hwy # A3, Kapaa, HI 96746
4. Island Ono Loa Grill, Kailua-Kona
A little off the beaten path of Ali'i Drive, Island Ono Loa Grill serves up some incredible hot dogs and burgers in a no-frills establishment.75-5799 Ali'i Drive Suite A4a, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
5. Shige’s Saimin Stand, Wahiawa
If you want noodle soup and your partner is craving a burger, head to this eclectic Wahiawa eatery.70 Kukui St #108, Wahiawa, HI 96786
6. Thai Chef Restaurant, Lahaina
Located in the Old Lahaina Center, this BYOB eatery serves up some amazing vegan options in an oceanfront setting.878 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
7. MCS Grill, Hanapepe
This casual Hawaiian eatery may be hard to find, but their delicious Kalua pork nachos are worth the search.1-3529 Kaumualii Hwy, Hanapepe, HI 96716
8. Sweet Potato Kitchen + Takeout, Hawi
This Hawi establishment is about as tucked away as it gets, but their mouthwatering vegan food is well worth the search.55-3406 Akoni Pule Highway, Hawi, HI 96743
9. Sushi Spot, Aiea
Located on the first floor of an unassuming strip mall in Aiea, Sushi Spot is the place to go for cheap + delicious sushi. 99-205 Moanalua Rd, Aiea, HI 96701
10. Monsoon India, Kihei
With sweeping ocean views, Monsoon India serves up an array of tandoori dishes, curries, and packed lunches to-go.760 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
11. Pho Viet, Hilo
This casual Vietnamese eatery is located off the beaten path in Hilo and features affordable entrees and amazing peanut sauce.80 Kilauea Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
12. Masa’s Sushi Restaurant, Koloa
For mouthwatering sushi in a small, no-frills establishment, head to Masa's Sushi Restaurant, if you can spot the sign off Rice Street, that is. 4261 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766
13. Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Honolulu
One of the state’s oldest Hawaiian restaurants, Helena’s Hawaiian Food is well-known for using secret family recipes. Be sure to order "Menu D," a tasting menu that comes with kalua pork, lomi salmon, dried beef short ribs, and luau squid. Don’t forget about the haupia dessert!1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817
You might also love these 11 hole in the wall restaurants, as well as these 15 unassuming Hawaii eateries.
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