Dining in Molokai provides culinary experiences just as exciting and varied as the island’s lush rainforests, picturesque mountains and untouched beaches. The restaurants on Hawaii’s “Most Hawaiian Island” reflect the lively and unique culture of the locals and also offer a variety of international options. Molokai has stayed true to its traditional culture which allows visitors to enjoy some of the most authentic luaus Hawaii has to offer. Sample the flavorful local cuisine in Kaunakakai, Molokai’s largest town, or venture to Kualapu’u and Maunaloa for local and international fare paired with stunning views.

"Molokai offers outdoor adventures, romantic coastlines and the opportunity to indulge in Hawaii’s rich cuisine. "Molokai offers outdoor adventures, romantic coastlines and the opportunity to indulge in Hawaii’s rich cuisine. Many dishes in Molokai are created from recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation while others combine Hawaii’s fresh ingredients with Asian flavors. This fusion of East and West is called Pacific Rim Cuisine and has become a culinary staple in Hawaii.

Traditional Hawaiian cuisine and Pacific Rim cuisine can be found all over Molokai from charming mom and pop restaurants to festive luaus. A luau, or Hawaiian feast offers an excellent opportunity to experience the flavors, entertainment and music of Molokai. Some of the most common luau foods include poi, a sweet purple-colored paste, chicken katsu, a Japanese style fried chicken, haupia, a traditional Hawaiian dessert with a coconut flavor and the featured dish at every luau, the kalua pig, which is slow cooked for many hours.

Kaunakakai is Molokai’s main harbor and offers a variety of culinary options. With no buildings taller than a coconut tree and not a single stop light, Kaunakakai offers the charm of a small town with a number of friendly eateries. The Molokai Pizza Café is a great choice for some pizza or a light meal. This family friendly café offers an eclectic menu and wonderful prices. Try the chili spaghetti or Caesar salad and then finish with a tasty sundae. If you want to enjoy the experience of preparing fresh Hawaiian meals yourself then make a stop into the Friendly Market. This dwntown grocery store is large and well stocked offering everything you need to create a fantastic Hawaiian meal.

Marc Molokai Shores is located in Kaunakakai and offers ocean front condominiums that are close to the local markets and unique shopping boutiques. Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grassy courtyard or grill some fresh local fish at the barbeque area. Outside of Marc Molokai Shores visitors can enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing. A great place to start is at the Kanemitsu Bakery for some fresh Molokai bread that can be enjoyed as you walk down the Kaunakakai Wharf which is always bustling with boat activity.

To the north of Kaunakakai is Kualapuu which boasts a great selection of local restaurants and coffee shops. Kamuela’s Cookhouse is a favorite dining option in Kualapuu that serves delicious food in a former farmhouse. With a cozy interior and a menu of hearty dishes this restaurant is a great spot for breakfast and lunch.

The only town on the west side of Molokai is Maunaloa, a former plantation village that now houses a variety of restaurants and shops. The Maunaloa Dining Room is a quiet and laid back restaurant that provides a friendly staff serving Hawaiian-continental cuisine. Guests can enjoy sitting in intricately carved wood chairs while tasty appetizers and entrees are placed upon tables covered with deep magenta tablecloths. The Maunaloa Dining Room features an eclectic ala carte menu as well as a pasta station and an Asian buffet every Sunday evening. A trip to the Kamakou Preserve makes a great trip before or after a filling meal at the Maunaloa Dining Room. Offering great food and attractions Maunaloa is one of Molokai’s most popular destinations.

Molokai is a hidden treasure with mom and pop restaurants dominating the culinary scene. These friendly and comfortable dining spots along with the island’s upscale hotel restaurants will satisfy every taste. Molokai offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor adventures and dining experiences that take you from exciting luaus to laid back dining with ocean views.

By Lisa DiSpirito