Outside the Hotel Lobby: Going Local in Maui

By Zeke Quezada

Ask any true Hawaiian and they’ll tell you that you need to sample what real Hawaiians love to eat in order to get the feel for the island lifestyle and the culinary treats that await you on the 50th state.

Simply put you need to delve into the world of Hawaiian Poke (pronounced POH-kay). It is a Hawaiian staple and the island version of Japanese sashimi will have you craving the seafood section of Foodland until your next trip.

From any hotel on any island ask the valet or one of the local people working where to find the best poke, the answers will vary but soon you will come to a consensus. You’ll pay around $12 - $15 per pound of this comfort food and you will not be disappointed.

In Maui I sampled the Poke at the Fish Market Maui in Honokowai and was nearly crippled by the fresh tasting fish and the spices that were infused into the Ahi Tuna. Walk next door to Honokowai Okazuka and order the Mahi with Lemon Capers and you are set for a quick, affordable lunch. If you so desire, walk about 100 yards up the street and picnic at a beach side park.

Simple meals in Maui can save you a tremendous amount of money and you will be pleased that you ventured beyond the lobby of your resort.


Fish Market Maui
3600 Lower Honoapiilani Rd #H1
'North of Lahaina in 'Honokowai'
Lahaina, HI 96761
(808) 665-9895
http://www.fishmarketmaui.com/index.html

Honokowai Okazuka and Deli
3600 Lower Honoapiilani Road
'North of Lahaina in 'Honokowai'
Lahaina, HI 96761
808-665-0512
http://www.mauihawaii.org/restaurants/okazuya.htm



Other Resources for Poke in Maui:

Takamiya in Happy Valley
359 N Market St
Wailuku, HI 96793
(808) 244-3404

If you are looking for the highest quality local food in Maui, Takamiya Market is where it is at. The line running out into the street should explain that but once you experience the food you will realize that this is truly a hidden gem. Local food that will change the way you feel about eating in Hawaii.




What is Poke?

http://whatscookingamerica.net/History/Poke.htm

Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/ZekeQuezada