Introduction
Dreaming of succulent kalua pig, the sweet tang of lilikoi, or the comforting warmth of a bowl of saimin? You don’t need to hop on a plane to Honolulu to satisfy your cravings for authentic Hawaiian flavors. While Washington State might be a world away from the Hawaiian Islands, Bremerton, nestled in the heart of Kitsap County, offers a surprising taste of paradise.
Bremerton, a vibrant city known for its naval history and stunning waterfront views, may not immediately spring to mind when you think of Hawaiian cuisine. However, scratch beneath the surface and you’ll discover a growing culinary scene that includes a variety of restaurants, catering services, and even local markets offering a taste of the Aloha spirit. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to finding the best Hawaiian food in and around Bremerton, helping you experience the flavors of the islands without ever leaving Kitsap County. We’ll explore the local restaurants serving up plate lunches, find caterers perfect for your next luau, and maybe even discover where you can find the ingredients to create your own Hawaiian feast at home.
Discovering Authentic Flavors in Bremerton Restaurants
Finding authentic Hawaiian food in Bremerton is easier than you might think. Several establishments have dedicated themselves to bringing the true taste of the islands to the Pacific Northwest. Here are some standout options to explore:
Island Plates: A Taste of Home
Island Plates is a true gem in the Bremerton Hawaiian food scene. This family-run restaurant is known for its generous portions and authentic recipes passed down through generations. Stepping inside is like stepping into a little piece of Hawaii, with friendly service and a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with Hawaiian artwork and photographs, creating a vibrant and inviting space.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the kalua pig, slow-roasted to perfection until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. The smoky, savory pork is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, and Island Plates does it exceptionally well. Another must-try is the Loco Moco, a Hawaiian comfort food classic consisting of a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and gravy. Island Plates’ version is rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to leave you feeling full and happy. The Chicken Katsu, crispy panko-breaded chicken cutlets served with a tangy katsu sauce, is also a popular choice. For those with a sweet tooth, the Haupia, a traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding, is the perfect way to end your meal.
What sets Island Plates apart is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preparing everything from scratch. The owners clearly pour their heart and soul into their food, and it shows in every bite. You can taste the love and dedication in each dish.
As one happy customer raved on Google Reviews, “Island Plates is the real deal! The food is amazing, the portions are huge, and the service is always friendly. It’s the closest thing to eating in Hawaii that I’ve found in Washington.”
You can find Island Plates located on Wheaton Way, Bremerton. Their phone number is listed on their website, where you can also view their complete menu and operating hours. Give them a call or stop by to experience the Aloha spirit for yourself.
Aloha Eats: A Bremerton Hawaiian Food Truck Sensation
For a quick and delicious Hawaiian food fix, look no further than Aloha Eats, a food truck that brings the flavors of the islands to various locations throughout Bremerton. Follow them on social media to find out where they’ll be parked each day.
Aloha Eats specializes in plate lunches, a Hawaiian staple consisting of a main dish, rice, and macaroni salad. Their signature dish is the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, with a delicious caramelized glaze. The teriyaki beef is another popular choice, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s sure to please. Their macaroni salad is creamy and tangy, providing the perfect complement to the savory meats. They often feature daily specials, so be sure to check their social media pages to see what they are cooking up each day!
Aloha Eats offers a convenient and affordable way to experience Hawaiian food in Bremerton. Their food truck is always clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and efficient.
“I stumbled upon Aloha Eats at the farmers market and I’m so glad I did!” said one satisfied customer on Yelp. “The BBQ chicken was incredible, and the macaroni salad was the best I’ve ever had. I’ll definitely be back for more!”
Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages to stay up-to-date on their location and menu.
Bringing the Luau to You: Hawaiian Catering in Kitsap County
Planning a party or event in Bremerton and want to impress your guests with a taste of the islands? Several catering services specialize in Hawaiian cuisine, bringing the authentic flavors of Hawaii to your special occasion.
Island Plates, mentioned above, also provides catering services for events of all sizes. Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or a large corporate event, they can create a customized menu to suit your needs. Their catering menu includes all of their signature dishes, as well as pupus (appetizers) like spam musubi and poke.
They can also provide traditional Hawaiian decorations and entertainment to create a truly immersive luau experience. Imagine your guests being greeted with leis and enjoying a feast of kalua pig, poi, and fresh tropical fruits, all while being serenaded by Hawaiian music. It’s a surefire way to make your event unforgettable. Contact them through their website or phone for catering menu and details.
Sourcing Island Ingredients in Bremerton
While Bremerton may not have dedicated Hawaiian grocery stores, you can still find some key ingredients to create your own Hawaiian dishes at home. Several local markets and grocery stores carry items like Hawaiian sweet bread, soy sauce, and other essential ingredients. Check out larger chain grocery stores, like Fred Meyer, in their international section. Don’t be afraid to ask store employees for assistance in locating specific items.
If you’re looking for more specialized ingredients, consider making a trip to Seattle’s International District, where you’ll find a wider selection of Asian and Pacific Islander grocery stores. Uwajimaya, in particular, is a great place to find Hawaiian ingredients and snacks.
Creating your own Hawaiian dishes at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, and it’s a great way to share the Aloha spirit with your family and friends.
Easy Spam Musubi Recipe:
Ingredients: Cooked rice, canned spam, nori seaweed sheets, soy sauce, sugar.
Instructions: Slice the spam into even pieces and fry until golden brown. Mix soy sauce and sugar in a pan and cook the spam in the sauce until it is glazed. Place a sheet of nori seaweed on a flat surface. Place a mold on top of the nori and fill with cooked rice. Press the rice down firmly. Remove the mold and top the rice with a slice of fried spam. Wrap the nori around the rice and spam, securing it with a bit of water. Cut into pieces and enjoy!
Embracing the Aloha Spirit Beyond the Plate
While the food is certainly a highlight, experiencing Hawaiian culture goes beyond just the culinary aspect. Keep an eye out for local events that celebrate Hawaiian traditions, music, and dance.
Community centers and cultural organizations sometimes host hula performances, lei-making workshops, and other Hawaiian-themed events. These events offer a unique opportunity to learn more about the rich culture of Hawaii and connect with the local community.
By attending these events, you can deepen your appreciation for Hawaiian culture and gain a better understanding of the traditions behind the food.
A Taste of Paradise in Kitsap County
Bremerton may be a world away from the beaches of Waikiki, but it offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious selection of Hawaiian food. From family-run restaurants serving authentic plate lunches to food trucks offering quick and affordable meals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you’re craving kalua pig, loco moco, or simply a taste of the islands, explore the Hawaiian culinary scene in Bremerton and discover your new favorite Aloha spot. Venture out and support the local businesses that are bringing the flavors of Hawaii to our community.
Don’t let the gray skies of the Pacific Northwest keep you from experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Aloha spirit. Indulge in the flavors of Hawaii right here in Bremerton and let your taste buds transport you to paradise. Go ahead, ditch the winter blues and find your own slice of paradise right here in Bremerton!
