Craving a taste of paradise without the hefty plane ticket? You might not immediately associate Orlando with hula dancing and pristine beaches, but beyond the world-famous theme parks, a surprisingly vibrant Hawaiian food scene awaits. Whether you’re a transplant longing for the flavors of home, a tourist yearning to relive a cherished vacation memory, or simply a local adventurous eater seeking a culinary escape, Orlando offers a delicious opportunity to experience the authentic tastes of the islands. Prepare to say “ono” (delicious!) because this guide will lead you to the very best Hawaiian food Orlando has to offer.
From savory kalua pig to refreshing poke bowls brimming with fresh ahi tuna, Hawaiian cuisine is a symphony of flavors and textures, a testament to the rich cultural history of the islands. This article serves as your passport to discover these culinary treasures, providing insight to the best restaurants providing authentic hawaiian food in Orlando.
The Essence of Hawaiian Cuisine: A Cultural Fusion
Hawaiian food is far more than just pineapple and coconuts. It’s a unique fusion of Polynesian traditions with influences from Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and American cuisines. This culinary tapestry tells the story of the Hawaiian islands themselves, a crossroads of cultures and flavors.
At the heart of traditional Hawaiian cooking lies the concept of respect for the land (aina) and the sea. This translates into a focus on fresh, local ingredients, whenever possible. While some ingredients might be difficult to source directly from Hawaii in Central Florida, chefs committed to authenticity strive to recreate the authentic flavors using the best available resources.
Several key dishes form the cornerstone of Hawaiian cuisine:
- Kalua Pig: Perhaps the most iconic dish, kalua pig is traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pig is wrapped in ti leaves and slow-cooked for hours, resulting in incredibly tender, smoky, and flavorful meat. While finding a true imu-cooked kalua pig in Orlando might be a challenge, several restaurants offer excellent renditions that capture the essence of this classic dish.
- Poke: Meaning “to cut crosswise into pieces,” poke has taken the culinary world by storm in recent years. Traditionally, it consists of cubes of raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce (shoyu), sesame oil, seaweed (limu), and other seasonings. Today, you’ll find countless variations, incorporating everything from salmon and octopus to avocado and spicy mayo. Poke showcases the freshness of the seafood and the versatility of Hawaiian flavors. The best restaurants offering hawaiian food in Orlando pride themselves on only using the freshest fish.
- Lau Lau: A truly unique and flavorful dish, laulau consists of pork (and sometimes fish) wrapped in lu’au (taro) leaves and steamed. The taro leaves impart a subtle earthy flavor to the meat, creating a tender and satisfying dish.
- Loco Moco: A truly hearty and comforting meal. Loco Moco consists of a bed of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in gravy. A true taste of Hawaiian comfort food, and a filling meal.
- Huli Huli Chicken: A delectable grilled chicken dish, “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian. This chicken is grilled over an open flame with a sweet and savory glaze.
- The Plate Lunch: More than just a meal, the plate lunch is a cultural institution in Hawaii. It typically consists of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a main protein (such as kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or fried fish). The plate lunch is a testament to the practical and satisfying nature of Hawaiian cuisine. It’s a perfect example of simple ingredients combined to create a flavorful and filling meal. Macaroni salad, often sweeter than mainland versions, is an essential component.
Discovering Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine in Orlando
Now, let’s embark on a culinary journey to discover some of the best establishments offering authentic Hawaiian food in Orlando. These recommendations are based on food quality, atmosphere, and commitment to showcasing the true flavors of the islands.
Island Fin Poke Company: A Fresh Taste of the Islands
Island Fin Poke Company is a local chain with several locations in the Orlando area, Island Fin Poke Company offers a customizable and fresh take on this Hawaiian staple. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, with a focus on providing a quick and healthy meal. The customizable menu allows you to build your own poke bowl with a variety of bases (rice, salad, or wonton chips), proteins (ahi tuna, salmon, octopus, chicken, tofu), sauces, toppings, and mix-ins. You can also choose from a selection of signature bowls, expertly crafted combinations of flavors.
Island Fin Poke Company stands out for its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and providing a wide range of options. Whether you’re a seasoned poke aficionado or a newcomer to Hawaiian cuisine, you’ll find something to love on their menu. The price point is reasonable, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. If you are in search of quality Hawaiian food in Orlando, be sure to try this place out!
Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: A Family-Style Hawaiian Feast
For a truly immersive and unforgettable Hawaiian dining experience, look no further than Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This family-style restaurant offers a delicious feast of Polynesian-inspired dishes in a lively and festive atmosphere. While the menu may not be strictly traditional Hawaiian, it draws heavily on Polynesian flavors and cooking techniques.
The meal begins with a selection of appetizers, including honey-coriander chicken wings and pot stickers. The main course features grilled meats cooked over an open fire, served with a variety of dipping sauces. The restaurant is known for it’s noodles, stir fried with vegetables, are always a hit, and the atmosphere is always lively and fun. The meal concludes with Ohana’s signature bread pudding, a decadent dessert that is not to be missed.
Ohana is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with live music, storytelling, and games for children. This is a great option for families looking for a fun and memorable dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Hawaiian Grill: A Hidden Gem of Hawaiian Comfort Food
Nestled away from the bustling tourist areas, Hawaiian Grill is a hidden gem serving up authentic Hawaiian comfort food. This no-frills establishment focuses on delivering delicious and satisfying plate lunches at affordable prices. While the atmosphere may be simple, the food speaks for itself.
The menu features all the Hawaiian classics, including kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, loco moco, and short ribs. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a popular spot with locals. The macaroni salad is a must-try, as is the homemade guava juice. This restaurant offers affordable Hawaiian food in Orlando, and is a great option for those looking for a no-frills dining experience.
Pineapple Lanai: Dole Whip Delight
While not a full-fledged restaurant, Pineapple Lanai, located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, deserves a mention for its iconic Dole Whip. This soft-serve pineapple treat is a quintessential Hawaiian experience, and Pineapple Lanai offers several variations, including the classic Dole Whip cup and the Dole Whip float. It’s the perfect refreshing treat on a hot Orlando day. Lines can get long, but the taste of Dole Whip is well worth the wait.
Beyond the Plate: Embracing Hawaiian Culture in Orlando
While finding authentic Hawaiian food in Orlando is a delicious adventure, immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture can enhance the experience even further. Keep an eye out for local Hawaiian events, such as luaus, Polynesian dance performances, or cultural festivals. These events offer a chance to learn about Hawaiian traditions, music, and art.
While Orlando might not have a large concentration of Hawaiian shops, you may be able to find Hawaiian goods at import stores or online retailers. Look for items such as Hawaiian shirts, leis, and Hawaiian snacks.
Embrace the Aloha Spirit
Orlando’s Hawaiian food scene may not be as well-known as its theme parks, but it offers a delightful opportunity to experience the flavors of the islands. From customizable poke bowls to family-style feasts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, ditch the usual tourist traps and embark on a culinary adventure to discover the best Hawaiian food Orlando has to offer.
Whether you’re craving the smoky flavors of kalua pig, the freshness of poke, or the comforting warmth of a plate lunch, Orlando has a Hawaiian restaurant that will transport you to paradise. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes, embrace the “Aloha Spirit,” and discover the culinary treasures that await. So, go ahead, explore the amazing Hawaiian food Orlando has to offer, and prepare to say “Ono!”
