Kailua Hawaii, USA Travel Guide
Local food combines traditional Polynesian practices with influences from Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, and American immigrants.
Kailua, a residential town, features a strong local food scene alongside contemporary American and international choices.
Most Kailua restaurants have a casual atmosphere. Cover up beachwear before entering nicer establishments.
Tipping is customary for service industries in the U.S. Refer to general travel advice for detailed expectations.
Service often feels friendly and relaxed; patience is appreciated. Take-out (to-go) is very common.
Cubed raw fish, usually ahi tuna, seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed.
Find at Foodland Kailua, fish markets, and some local restaurants.
A meal with a main entree (e.g., Katsu Chicken, Kalua Pig), two scoops of rice, and macaroni salad.
Available at neighborhood food spots and drive-ins throughout Kailua.
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups, often with condensed milk or sorbet.
A refreshing dessert customizable with various tropical flavors.
Hawaii's famous rich-flavored coffee, available at cafes throughout Kailua.
A classic rum-based cocktail. Hawaiian breweries like Maui Brewing Co. And Kona Brewing Co. Offer popular beers.
Kailua has limited dedicated fine dining establishments. Most high-end options are in Honolulu or Waikiki.
Kailua provides a good selection of mid-range restaurants covering various cuisines.
Affordable options for quick and authentic meals.
Kailua offers a variety of dining on foreign dishes options. You can find Japanese (sushi), Thai, Vietnamese, Italian, and Mexican restaurants.
This diversity provides choices for a change from local Hawaiian fare.
Many of these are littleer, local businesses, providing an authentic dining on foreign dishes experience.
Look for hidden gems and community favorites for a genuine taste.
Fresh produce, local foods, prepared meals (Thurs/Sun).
Major supermarket with wide local food selection, poke, plate lunches.
Find fresh exotic fruits and vegetables at various roadside stands.
Small local fish markets for daily catches.
Limited availability in Kailua. More alternatives can be found in Honolulu, specifically near military bases.
Plan accordingly if this is a strict dietary requirement.
Very difficult to find outside of specific, dedicated markets in Honolulu.
Advance planning and inquiries are recommended.
Utilize apps like HappyCow for locating vegetarian and vegan restaurants nearby.
No dedicated Hawaiian cuisine cooking classes are widely advertised in Kailua. Some may be found in Honolulu.
Food tours focus mainly on Honolulu or the Northern Coast, providing insights into Oahu's diverse food culture.
Large-scale farms are limited near Kailua. Small local farms often participate in the Kailua Farmers Market.
A popular spot for fresh açaí bowls, smoothies, and juices. It offers healthy and refreshing options.
Visit for a refreshing and healthy local treat.
A typical Kailua spot that serves as a market, deli, and coffee shop.
A casual place to grab a gourmet sandwich, coffee, or prepared meal near Kailua Beach.
Try a different type of poke daily. Foodland's poke counter offers a wide selection, from spicy ahi to shoyu poke.
For food trucks and special events, check local community calendars or social media for current schedules and locations.
Residents often share their favorite hidden gems for authentic, budget-friendly local meals. Ask for recommendations.
Always communicate specific dietary needs clearly to your server when placing an order.
