The food and drink scene in Hawera, New Zealand, is a delightful fusion of local and international flavors, offering a wide range of options for visitors to explore. The region is known for its fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and unique culinary creations that reflect the diverse cultural influences present in the area.
One popular spot for dining is the Mai Tai Bar, located near Waikiki Beach. This oceanfront establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for sipping on signature cocktails like the original Mai Tai, which was first served at The Royal Hawaiian hotel in 1953. The bar features live music daily, making it an ideal spot for enjoying the vibrant tropical music and local entertainment while taking in breathtaking views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean.
For those seeking traditional Hawaiian dishes, Helena's Hawaiian Food offers a classic Hawaiian plate that includes kalua pig, laulau, pipikaula, lomi salmon, poi, and desserts like kulolo or haupia. This James Beard Award-winning restaurant provides an authentic taste of local cuisine, allowing visitors to experience the rich culinary heritage of Hawaii.
Another must-try dish is poke, which spans all three styles of Hawaiian food – pre-contact, local cuisine, and modern fusion. Originating from ancient Hawaiians who ate raw fish with limu and oil-rich kukui nuts, poke has evolved into various forms over time, including the popular version featuring marinated tuna or other seafood served over rice.
In addition to these highlights, Hawera offers a variety of other culinary experiences, such as shave ice, spam musubi, plate lunch, loco moco, haupia pie, manapua, and saimin. Each of these dishes showcases the unique blend of flavors and influences that make Hawaiian cuisine so distinctive and appealing to both locals and visitors alike.