Foods to Try in Hawaii

It was the surf and sand that drew me to Hawaii, but one year and two trips later, I can say for sure that it's the food that's gotten me hooked. Sure, New York, San Francisco, New Orleans, and other metropolitan cities are notable dining destinations, but for an entirely enlightening cultural experience, take a trip outside the continental US to visit America's 50th state.

Abundant natural resources and a rich history of Polynesian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean settlers makes Hawaiian food one of the most intriguing cuisines in the world. It's an unlikely mishmash of Portuguese baked goods, Korean barbecued meats, and all-American picnic favorites, which guarantees dining in the islands will never be dull. Here are a few of the state's most iconic bites.