Hawaiin Cuisine
Hawaiian cuisine is a blend of many different influences, including Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese. As a result, there is a wide variety of unique and flavorful dishes to try when visiting Hawaii. Some popular Hawaiian dishes include poke (raw fish salad), lau lau (pork or chicken wrapped in taro leaves), kalua pig (slow-roasted pork), and lomi salmon (a tomato and salmon salad). The use of local ingredients such as taro, coconut, and tropical fruits like pineapple and mango gives Hawaiian cuisine its distinct flavor.​
​For those with dietary restrictions, Hawaii offers many options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Many restaurants in Hawaii offer vegetarian or vegan versions of traditional Hawaiian dishes, such as tofu poke or vegetable lau lau. Gluten-free options are also widely available, with many restaurants offering gluten-free menus or options. Additionally, seafood is a major part of Hawaiian cuisine, so those with shellfish or seafood allergies should be cautious and inquire about ingredients before ordering.
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Overall, Hawaiian cuisine is a unique and flavorful fusion of many different cultures and ingredients. Visitors to Hawaii should be sure to try some of the local specialties while also being mindful of any dietary restrictions they may have.
Hawaiin Beverages
Hawaii has different traditional alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are popular among both locals and travelers. One of the most well-known alcoholic drinks in Hawaii is the Mai Tai, which is made with rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup.
Another popular cocktail is the Blue Hawaiian, which is made with rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. Other Hawaiian cocktails include the Lava Flow (a blend of strawberries, coconut cream, and rum), the Pina Colada, and the Chi Chi (a vodka-based drink made with coconut cream and pineapple juice).
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For non-alcoholic drinks, one of the most popular is the POG juice, which is made with a blend of passion fruit, orange, and guava juices. This refreshing and fruity drink is often served for breakfast and can be found in many cafes and restaurants throughout Hawaii.
Another popular non-alcoholic drink is the shaved ice, which is a Hawaiian take on the classic snow cone. Shaved ice is made with finely shaved ice and topped with flavored syrups, condensed milk, and sometimes even fresh fruit.
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