Hawaii’s food has many international influences, making it both flavorful and unique. When you’re looking for mouthwatering cultural favorites such as Japanese Katsu for lunch or Portuguese sausage for breakfast, the right local restaurant will have it all. Here are three of the most popular local dishes to enjoy in Hawaii.

What Are Some Dishes That Are Local to Hawaii?

1. Portuguese Sausage, Eggs & Rice

Also known as linguiça in Portugal, these spicy or sweet sausages can be grilled or pan-fried. Enjoyed as a breakfast item, the sausage is sliced or linked and served with eggs and a side of rice. While the sausage is full of flavor, some people like to add shoyu, black pepper, or ketchup. The rice can also be flavored with shoyu, furukake, or soy sauce.

2. Plate

A plate lunch may not seem like anything special to most, but it's a popular dish in Hawaii. Its versatility allows for several combinations, so it can be revisited daily without fear of repetition. The lunch is served with a protein, such as chicken katsu, fried mahi, or shrimp tempura, two scoops of rice, and a scoop of macaroni salad.

3. Loco Moco

Loco moco is often served for lunch, but this hearty meal is perfect at any time of the day. With a layer of white rice, a protein such as a hamburger, steak, or sausage, a pair of fried eggs on top, and a coating of gravy, this dish has it all. The gravy will vary at each restaurant, some including Worcestershire or soy sauce, and others offering a hint of honey and various spices. Grilled onions, chili pepper water, and Tabasco are also popular toppings for this meal.

Plantation Grindz, in Kahului, HI, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner foods, so you can try any of their dishes at any time of the day. Although they’re famous for their Filipino cuisine, their ever-growing Asian, Pacific, and Western-fused dishes are favorites for locals and tourists alike. View their menu online, or call (808) 873-3663 for takeout. Also, follow them on Instagram for current news and specials.