When it comes to San Diego, there are a few things it is known for that can easily rival Hawaii. Like its neighbor across the Pacific Ocean, San Diego has amazing mild summers and great beaches. What most people do not know is that it also features some great Hawaiian food options as well. Though I may never get tired of all of the incredible taco shops that San Diego has to offer, I love to make time for a stop at one of my favorite Hawaiian restaurants. If you are in the area or are planning a trip, then check out my top choices for Hawaiian food in San Diego.
Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Homestyle Hawaiian has some great options for you. Though it may not sound like restaurant fare, I suggest you try their spam and eggs for breakfast. Those on the Hawaiian Islands are able to work wonders with spam! If you are looking for something sweeter, I love their macadamia pancakes. This was my first time trying pancakes other than with buttermilk and it is amazing! My new go to when I have pancakes for breakfast. For a main dish, I like their Northshore kalua sandwich. Their kalua pork with provolone has just the right amount of crunch from arugula and makes for a great combo. When in the mood for dessert, visit them on a warm day and treat yourself to a Dole whip.
What I recommend: Macadamia pancakes or their kalua pork sandwiches
Location: 7524 Mesa College Dr San Diego, CA 92111
For those people who are fans of building their own bowl, Poki One N Half may just turn out to be your new favorite spot. I like to load up a large bowl with five scoops of spicy tuna, avocado, cilantro, and seaweed with a healthy drizzle of spicy poki sauce. If you want to know the perfect way to eat poke, it is getting spicy mayo on the side to add to your bowl later. Their refreshing offerings always hit the spot on a sunny San Diego day. They also have plenty of vegetarian options. They even offer a great macaron ice cream that is perfect for sharing in case you did not leave enough room for dessert.
What I recommend: Spicy tuna and salmon for your poke
Location: 8055 Armour St Ste C San Diego, CA 92111
Serving up their authentic Hawaiian offerings in the San Diego area since 2008, Island Style Café offers plenty of fresh salads and tasty burgers. Those visiting for breakfast, which is served all day, must try their mahi mahi and eggs. Their coconut shrimp salad features their breaded shrimp tossed with cucumbers and carrots. They also serve a great salmon burger that is worth the trip. And of course, they would not be a Hawaiian restaurant if they did not offer a few spam options. What I love about Hawaiian restaurants is that they always have the best helping of macaroni salad. They're honestly the best macaroni salad I've ever had. Try an order of their spam musubis to share with friends.
What I recommend: Mahi mahi and eggs, spam musubis, and macaroni salad
Location: 9828 N Magnolia Ave Santee, CA 92071
A trip across the ocean may not be something everyone has the time or the budget for. The good news is that you will not have to cross the ocean to eat amazing Hawaiian foods while overlooking the water. San Diego may not be well-known as a hot spot for Hawaiian fare, but it is worth making plans to visit one of these fine spots on your next trip to the area. It may be as close as one can get to the island without having to go through TSA.