The Best Hawaiian Restaurants Across the Santa Cruz (and what to order at each)

Did you know that Spam is so beloved in Hawaii, it’s often called “Hawaiian steak”?

Hawaiian cuisine is full of surprises like that—rich in flavor, rooted in history, and shaped by a blend of cultures including Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and Polynesian. But finding authentic Hawaiian food outside the islands isn’t always easy. That’s why food lovers in Santa Cruz are in for a treat.

From laid-back lunch spots to Island-inspired grills, Santa Cruz is home to some of the best Hawaiian eats on this side of the Pacific. Whether you’re craving poke bowls topped with Furikake, crispy katsu chicken, or a comforting loco moco, there’s a plate for every appetite.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the top Hawaiian restaurants across Santa Cruz—highlighting what makes each one special and exactly what to order when you visit.

So if you're ready to bring the Island vibes to your next meal, keep reading—you just might find your new favorite spot.

What defines Hawaiian cuisine?

Hawaiian cuisine is a unique blend of cultures and flavors, shaped by the islands’ rich history and immigrant communities. It brings together influences from Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, Chinese, and American cooking, creating bold, comforting dishes that are both familiar and distinct.

At its core, Hawaiian food is about balance—savory, sweet, salty, and umami flavors often layered on one plate. Popular dishes include kalua pork, loco moco, poke bowls, Spam musubi, and the well-loved plate lunch, which typically includes a protein, rice, and macaroni salad.

What sets Hawaiian food apart is its simplicity and heartiness. Meals are often built around rice and meat, seasoned with ingredients like shoyu (soy sauce), Hawaiian sea salt, and Furikake, a flavorful seaweed and sesame seed topping that adds crunch and depth.

Tropical ingredients like pineapple, coconut, and mango also make appearances, adding a fresh contrast to savory mains. Whether you're enjoying a quick bite from a food truck or dining at the best Hawaiian restaurant in town, Hawaiian cuisine is all about flavor, comfort, and sharing good food with people you love. It’s casual, satisfying, and always full of aloha.

Best Hawaiian restaurants across Santa Cruz

1. Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery

Located right on the Santa Cruz Wharf, Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery offers more than just food—it delivers a full Island-inspired experience with unbeatable ocean views. Whether you’re watching the sunset or spotting sea lions below, the setting alone makes it a must-visit. 

But the real reason to go? The food brings serious aloha flavor to the table.

Makai stands out for its Hawaiian-fusion menu, combining classic Island ingredients with a modern twist. The atmosphere is casual yet lively, with tropical cocktails, tiki decor, and a menu that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo after a beach day.

What to try:

• Start with the Spam Musubi—a simple, nostalgic Hawaiian snack that Makai executes perfectly. Their Ahi Poke Bowl, topped with Furikake and served over jasmine rice, is a fan favorite for good reason—fresh, flavorful, and filling. 

• If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the Kalua Pork Tacos bring the smoky, shredded pork flavor straight from the luau.

• Pair your meal with a signature Mai Tai or a refreshing Pineapple Mojito for the full experience.

Makai Island Kitchen is a great introduction to Hawaiian flavors if you’re new, and a satisfying taste of the islands if you’re already a fan. Come for the view, stay for the food, and leave feeling like you’ve just had a mini tropical getaway with no plane ticket needed.

2. Pono Hawaiian Grill

If you're looking for authentic Hawaiian food in Santa Cruz, Pono Hawaiian Grill is a must-visit. Located in the heart of downtown, this laid-back spot brings the flavors of the islands straight to your plate—along with the friendly, relaxed vibe you'd expect from a Hawaiian eatery.

What makes it special?

Pono stands out for its commitment to traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and a true aloha spirit. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with island-style decor, live music nights, and even a tiki bar to complete the experience.

It’s more than just a meal—it’s a little Hawaiian getaway without leaving Santa Cruz. For events big or small, Pono also offers the best catering services in Downtown Santa Cruz, bringing those same island flavors and good vibes straight to your gathering.

What to try:

• Start with the Spam Musubi, a local favorite that perfectly balances salty, sweet, and savory. For something heartier, go for the Pono Plate Lunch—a classic combo of grilled teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or garlic shrimp served with rice and creamy mac salad.

• Craving something fresh? Their poke bowls are a big hit—customizable and topped with delicious extras like avocado, spicy mayo, or a sprinkle of Furikake for added crunch and flavor. Don't forget to try their house-made sauces—they bring the whole dish together.

Whether you're a longtime lover of Hawaiian food or trying it for the first time, Pono Hawaiian Grill delivers comfort, flavor, and a laid-back Island feel every time.

3. Hula's Island Grill and Tiki Room

Located just a short drive from Santa Cruz in Monterey, Hula’s Island Grill and Tiki Room is a vibrant, island-inspired restaurant that brings a tropical escape to the California coast. It’s not strictly traditional Hawaiian cuisine, but a modern, fusion-style take on Island flavors—and that’s exactly what makes it special.

The moment you walk in, you’re welcomed by colorful tiki décor, surfboard accents, and a fun, laid-back vibe that feels like a mini vacation. It’s a popular spot for both casual dinners and lively nights out, thanks to its upbeat atmosphere and creative drink menu featuring classic and modern tiki cocktails.

The food at Hula’s is bold and flavorful, blending Hawaiian ingredients with Asian and Californian twists. One of the top must-tries is the Ahi Poke Tower, stacked with fresh tuna, avocado, and wasabi aioli perfect for sharing. Their Hawaiian ceviche, coconut shrimp rolls, and jerk pork plate are also crowd favorites.

Vegetarian or looking for lighter options? Their Hula’s Bowl with grilled tofu, rice, and Island veggies is a wholesome, satisfying pick.

Whether you’re stopping in for a happy hour or a full dinner, Hula’s offers a flavorful spin on Hawaiian dining. It may not be fully traditional, but it’s a great place to enjoy island-style food with a modern twist complete with tiki torches and aloha vibes.

4. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a well-loved spot in Santa Cruz for classic, no-fuss Hawaiian comfort food. Part of a larger chain that started in Honolulu, this local L&L brings the spirit of a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch to the mainland with big portions, bold flavors, and affordable prices.

What makes L&L special is its consistency and wide variety of options. It’s a great choice whether you’re new to Hawaiian food or already a fan of Island flavors. The vibe is casual and friendly, perfect for a quick lunch, relaxed dinner, or takeout.

The menu highlights all the favorites you’d expect: kalua pork, chicken katsu, teriyaki beef, and the ever-popular Spam musubi. Each plate typically comes with two scoops of rice and a creamy macaroni salad, staying true to the Hawaiian-style lunch plate tradition.

For something filling and flavorful, try the loco moco—a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and brown gravy. It’s messy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.

L&L also offers combo plates so you can mix and match proteins, perfect if you can’t choose just one. If you want a taste of authentic Hawaiian BBQ in Santa Cruz that hits the spot every time, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a reliable go-to.

Tips for ordering Hawaiian food

• Start with a plate lunch—it’s the heart of Hawaiian cuisine.

• Don’t skip the macaroni salad—it’s a classic side.

• Add Furikake to rice or poke for extra flavor.

• Try Spam musubi—it’s a true local favorite.

• Choose fresh poke with simple toppings.

• Go for a combo plate if you want to sample more than one dish.

Wrap up

From beachfront bites to downtown favorites, Santa Cruz offers a delicious range of Hawaiian restaurants that bring the Island spirit to the California coast. Whether you're craving a comforting plate lunch, fresh poke topped with Furikake, or a fun night out with tiki drinks and tropical flavors, there’s something for every kind of foodie. 

Spots like Makai, Pono Hawaiian Grill, L&L, and Hula’s each offer their take on Hawaiian classics—some traditional, others with a creative twist. So next time you're hungry for bold, satisfying flavors, skip the usual and say aloha to something new.

Your next island-style meal might be closer than you think.