Dreaming of swaying palm trees and the gentle crash of waves? Yearning for the taste of fresh poke and succulent kalua pig, but finding yourself landlocked in the Arizona desert? Fear not, fellow traveler! While Scottsdale might not be Oahu, it does boast a surprisingly vibrant and growing selection of establishments offering a taste of Hawaiian paradise. This article is your comprehensive guide to navigating the Scottsdale culinary landscape, uncovering the best Hawaiian restaurants, food trucks, and hidden gems that bring the spirit of Aloha to the heart of Arizona. Prepare to trade your boots for slippahs and embark on a delicious journey through the island flavors of Scottsdale.
This vibrant city, known for its upscale resorts and bustling nightlife, might seem an unlikely place to find authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour, a dedicated community of chefs and food lovers are bringing the true taste of the islands to Scottsdale, offering a delicious respite from the Sonoran sun. This article will guide you to those hidden oases, ensuring your craving for Hawaiian comfort food is thoroughly satisfied.
A Taste of the Islands: What is Hawaiian Food?
Before diving into the best spots Scottsdale has to offer, it’s important to understand what truly constitutes Hawaiian food. We’re not just talking about pineapple pizza here. Authentic Hawaiian cuisine is a rich blend of Polynesian, Asian, and Western influences, shaped by the islands’ unique ingredients and cultural traditions. This melting pot has created dishes that are both comforting and incredibly flavorful, each bite telling a story of the Hawaiian people.
At the heart of Hawaiian cuisine lies a dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Taro, a starchy root vegetable, forms the basis of poi, a traditional staple. Pork, often slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu, takes on a smoky and incredibly tender flavor in kalua pig. And of course, the bounty of the Pacific Ocean provides an abundance of fresh fish, transformed into mouthwatering dishes.
Let’s explore some essential dishes that define the Hawaiian culinary experience:
Poke: The Jewel of Hawaiian Cuisine
Poke, meaning “to cut crosswise into pieces,” is arguably the most recognizable Hawaiian dish. It’s a simple yet elegant combination of raw, marinated fish, typically ahi tuna, tossed with seaweed, sesame oil, soy sauce, and other flavorful ingredients. The beauty of poke lies in its simplicity and the freshness of the ingredients. Variations abound, from the classic shoyu poke to spicy ahi, each offering a unique and satisfying experience. Finding high-quality, fresh fish is key to a truly exceptional poke experience, so pay attention to restaurants known for their seafood.
Kalua Pig: A Taste of Tradition
Kalua pig is a true labor of love, traditionally cooked in an underground imu, where it’s slow-roasted for hours until it becomes incredibly tender and infused with a smoky flavor. While not every restaurant in Scottsdale has the space for an imu, many replicate the slow-cooking process to achieve a similar level of succulence. The resulting shredded pork is often served with cabbage or alongside other traditional Hawaiian dishes. The key to great kalua pig is the smoky flavor and the melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a must-try for any Hawaiian food enthusiast.
Lau Lau: A Culinary Treasure
Lau lau is a dish consisting of pork (or sometimes fish) wrapped in lu’au (taro) leaves and steamed. The leaves impart a subtle earthy flavor to the meat, creating a tender and aromatic bundle. This dish showcases the resourcefulness of Hawaiian cuisine, utilizing the abundance of taro leaves to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Loco Moco: A Hawaiian Comfort Food Staple
The loco moco is the ultimate Hawaiian comfort food – a hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and generous serving of brown gravy. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian comfort food. Variations may include different types of meat, such as kalua pig or Portuguese sausage, but the core elements remain the same.
Huli Huli Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Huli Huli Chicken is a marinated chicken dish that’s grilled to perfection, often turned (“huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian) to ensure even cooking and a caramelized glaze. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and other spices, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
The Plate Lunch: A Hawaiian Institution
No exploration of Hawaiian food is complete without mentioning the plate lunch. This quintessential Hawaiian meal typically includes two scoops of white rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and a main protein, such as kalua pig, Huli Huli chicken, or teriyaki beef. The plate lunch is a testament to the island’s diverse cultural influences and is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. Macaroni salad is almost always included, a creamy and tangy complement to the savory main dishes.
Beyond the specific dishes, Hawaiian cuisine is also about the “Aloha Spirit” – a sense of warmth, hospitality, and generosity that’s integral to Hawaiian culture. Look for restaurants where you feel welcomed and treated like family.
Finding Aloha: Hawaiian Food Hotspots in Scottsdale
Now, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore the best places to satisfy your Hawaiian food cravings in Scottsdale:
Island Oasis Grill
Tucked away in a shopping center, Island Oasis Grill offers a truly authentic experience. This family-owned establishment prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their poke is consistently praised for its quality, and their kalua pig is slow-cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Be sure to try their Hawaiian Sun drinks for a truly immersive experience. Price range: $$. What makes them stand out? Their dedication to authentic flavors and family-friendly atmosphere. Customer reviews rave about their generous portions and friendly service. Takeout options are available.
Haleiwa Eats Food Truck
For a more casual and adventurous experience, track down the Haleiwa Eats Food Truck. This mobile eatery brings the flavors of the North Shore of Oahu to the streets of Scottsdale. Their menu changes regularly, but you can always count on fresh poke bowls, delicious plate lunches, and creative specials. Follow them on social media to find their location and see what they’re cooking up each day. Price range: $. What makes them stand out? Their creative specials and authentic street food vibe. Customer reviews highlight the freshness of their poke and the convenience of their mobile location.
Aloha Kitchen Scottsdale
Aloha Kitchen Scottsdale brings the bright and vibrant flavors of Hawaii to a fast-casual setting. Their Huli Huli chicken is juicy and flavorful, and their loco moco is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. The atmosphere is bright and inviting, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Price range: $$. What makes them stand out? Their vibrant atmosphere and focus on popular Hawaiian dishes. Customer reviews praise their quick service and consistently good food. Takeout and delivery options are available.
Ohana Hawaiian BBQ
Ohana Hawaiian BBQ offers a wide range of Hawaiian BBQ dishes, from teriyaki chicken to short ribs. Their plate lunches are generous and affordable, making them a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal. They focus on BBQ versions of Hawaiian food, so it is not as traditional. Price range: $. What makes them stand out? Their BBQ and value for the large portions.
Beyond the Plate: Exploring Hawaiian Culture in Scottsdale
While restaurants are a great way to experience Hawaiian food, there are other ways to immerse yourself in the culture in Scottsdale:
Island Imports Market
While not exclusively Hawaiian, Island Imports Market carries a selection of Hawaiian ingredients, snacks, and drinks. It’s a great place to find authentic Hawaiian Sun juices, Hawaiian Host chocolates, and other treats.
Keep an eye out for Events
Although not regularly scheduled, keep an eye out for local festivals. They often offer Hawaiian music, dance performances, and, of course, delicious food.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Hawaiian Meal
With so many options to choose from, how do you ensure you’re getting the best Hawaiian food experience in Scottsdale? Here are a few tips:
Prioritize Freshness
Look for restaurants that emphasize fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to fish for poke.
Consider Authenticity
Decide what level of traditional Hawaiian you are going for. Some have incorporated local flavors into their dishes.
Read Reviews
Check online reviews on sites like Yelp and Google to see what other diners are saying about the food and service.
Ask for Recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite Hawaiian spots. They may have insider tips on hidden gems you wouldn’t find otherwise.
Embrace the Aloha Spirit
Choose a restaurant where you feel welcomed and treated like family. The Aloha Spirit is an integral part of the Hawaiian dining experience.
A Desert Oasis of Island Flavors
Scottsdale, Arizona, might seem a world away from the beaches of Hawaii, but thanks to dedicated chefs and passionate food lovers, you can still experience the authentic flavors of the islands without leaving the desert. From fresh poke bowls to succulent kalua pig, Scottsdale’s Hawaiian food scene offers a delicious escape from the ordinary. So, pack your appetite, embrace the Aloha Spirit, and embark on a culinary adventure through the Hawaiian flavors of Scottsdale. Who knows, you might just discover your own hidden paradise in the heart of the desert. Now go out and find your favorite taste of Aloha!
