Dreaming of swaying palm trees, the gentle crash of waves, and the savory aroma of kalua pig wafting through the air? You don’t need a plane ticket to paradise to experience the vibrant and comforting flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. Right here in Spokane, Washington, a growing number of restaurants and food purveyors are bringing the “Aloha Spirit” to the Inland Northwest. From succulent plate lunches overflowing with rice, macaroni salad, and tender meats, to the freshest poke bowls bursting with flavor, Spokane’s Hawaiian food scene offers a delicious escape for your taste buds. This article serves as your guide to navigating this culinary landscape, helping you discover the best places to find authentic and satisfying Hawaiian food right here in Spokane. Prepare to say “Aloha” to your new favorite meal!
The Allure of Hawaiian Cuisine
Hawaiian food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the spirit of “Aloha,” a word that encompasses love, peace, compassion, and a genuine connection to the islands. The cuisine itself is a fascinating fusion of flavors, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Hawaii over centuries.
Initially, the food traditions stemmed from the Polynesian voyagers who first settled the islands, bringing with them staples like taro, sweet potatoes, breadfruit, and coconuts. Later, as immigrants from countries such as China, Japan, Portugal, and the Philippines arrived to work on plantations, they introduced their own culinary techniques and ingredients, creating a truly unique and harmonious blend. American influences also played a role, contributing to the development of dishes like the ubiquitous plate lunch.
One of the defining characteristics of Hawaiian food is its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. While sourcing ingredients locally in Spokane may not be quite the same as plucking a mango straight from a tree in Hawaii, restaurants strive to use the freshest produce and meats available, capturing the vibrant flavors of the islands. From the sweetness of pineapples to the richness of coconut milk, these ingredients are carefully combined to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Unveiling the Flavors: Key Dishes and Ingredients
To truly appreciate Hawaiian food, it’s essential to understand some of the key dishes and ingredients that make it so special:
- Kalua Pig: Perhaps the most iconic Hawaiian dish, Kalua Pig is traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pig is wrapped in ti leaves and slow-roasted for hours, resulting in incredibly tender, smoky, and flavorful meat. Many restaurants in Spokane recreate this dish using alternative cooking methods, but the smoky essence remains a crucial element.
- Poke: A Hawaiian staple that has gained international popularity, poke (pronounced “poh-kay”) is a raw fish salad typically made with ahi tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, onions, and various other seasonings. Different variations exist, with some incorporating avocado, spicy mayonnaise, or other unique ingredients. The key is using incredibly fresh fish and balancing the flavors perfectly. You will find plenty of poke options in Spokane.
- Lomi Salmon: This refreshing salad combines salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers. The saltiness of the salmon is balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the onions, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
- Huli Huli Chicken: “Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way this chicken is traditionally grilled over an open flame, being turned repeatedly to ensure even cooking and a beautiful caramelized glaze. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and other seasonings, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- The Plate Lunch: The quintessential Hawaiian meal, the plate lunch typically consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and a main dish such as kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or short ribs. The macaroni salad is often creamy and slightly sweet, providing a cool contrast to the savory main course.
Beyond these iconic dishes, other essential ingredients in Hawaiian cooking include taro (used to make poi, a traditional staple), sweet potatoes, coconut milk, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. These ingredients, combined with the “Aloha Spirit,” create a culinary experience that is both delicious and deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture.
Finding Aloha: The Best Hawaiian Food Spots in Spokane
Now, let’s explore some of the top places in Spokane where you can find authentic and delicious Hawaiian food:
Luau BBQ
(Disclaimer: Please verify current location and operation before visiting.) This Spokane establishment is known for bringing a taste of the islands to the Inland Northwest. Luau BBQ, if they are still in operation, offers a range of Hawaiian favorites, including kalua pig, huli huli chicken, and various plate lunch options. They are located at (verify location) and can be reached by phone at (verify number) or through their social media channels (verify social media presence). Reviews often highlight the generous portions and the authentic flavors. Their signature dish is often cited as the kalua pig, which is slow-cooked and incredibly tender. Many patrons comment on the friendly service and the casual, welcoming atmosphere. If this establishment continues to serve the community, consider checking them out for a taste of Hawaiian flavors.
[Restaurant Name 2 – Needs Research]
(Insert researched information here – Address, contact info, description, signature dishes, unique aspects, reviews). I recommend searching for “Hawaiian food Spokane” on Google Maps, Yelp, and other review sites to identify other establishments and gather information about their offerings. Remember to check the most recent reviews to gauge the current quality and service.
[Restaurant Name 3 – Needs Research]
(Insert researched information here – Address, contact info, description, signature dishes, unique aspects, reviews). Look for restaurants that are family-owned or have chefs with a strong connection to Hawaiian culture, as these establishments are more likely to offer authentic and traditional flavors. Consider those that offer catering.
[Food Truck Name 1 – Needs Research]
(Insert researched information here – Location, schedule, menu, unique aspects, reviews). Food trucks can be a great way to sample a variety of Hawaiian dishes at affordable prices. Check local food truck schedules online or on social media to see if any trucks specializing in Hawaiian cuisine are operating in the Spokane area.
[Restaurant with Hawaiian-Inspired Dishes – Needs Research]
(Insert researched information here – Address, contact info, Hawaiian-inspired dishes, reviews). Even if a restaurant doesn’t exclusively serve Hawaiian food, it may offer Hawaiian-inspired dishes that are worth trying. Look for restaurants that incorporate ingredients like pineapple, coconut, or macadamia nuts into their dishes.
Bringing Aloha Home: Hawaiian-Inspired Dishes in Your Spokane Kitchen
While dining out is a great way to experience Hawaiian food, you can also bring the flavors of the islands into your own kitchen. Many grocery stores in Spokane carry ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, coconut milk, and even some types of seaweed, allowing you to create simple and delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes at home.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
- Ingredients:
- pound elbow macaroni
- cup mayonnaise
- cup milk
- tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- tablespoons sugar
- teaspoon salt
- teaspoon black pepper
- cup shredded carrot
- cup chopped celery
- cup chopped onion
- Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni, carrot, celery, and onion to the bowl. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion: A Taste of Paradise in the Inland Northwest
Spokane may be thousands of miles away from Hawaii, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the authentic and comforting flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. From plate lunches to poke bowls, the restaurants and food purveyors in Spokane are bringing the “Aloha Spirit” to the Inland Northwest, offering a delicious escape for your taste buds. Whether you’re craving the smoky tenderness of kalua pig, the freshness of poke, or the creamy sweetness of macaroni salad, you’re sure to find a Hawaiian dish to satisfy your cravings right here in Spokane.
So, next time you’re yearning for a taste of paradise, head to one of these fantastic spots in Spokane! Explore the menus, sample the flavors, and let the “Aloha Spirit” transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Don’t forget to share your favorite Hawaiian food experiences in the comments below! Mahalo!
