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The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Spam Hawaiian Style on the Big Island of Hawaii
Hawaii’s love for Spam is legendary, and nowhere is this more evident than on the Big Island. While Spam might be a humble canned meat elsewhere, it’s a culinary icon in Hawaii. Spam has become a key ingredient in the island’s food culture, from hearty breakfasts to creative fusion dishes. Whether you’re a long-time Spam lover or a curious first-timer, the Big Island offers a unique opportunity to experience Spam Hawaiian style.
In this guide, we’ll explore Spam’s history in Hawaii, the best dishes on the Big Island, and even a recipe to make your Hawaiian-inspired Spam dish.
The History of Spam in Hawaii: How Spam Became a Local Staple
Spam’s journey to Hawaii dates back to World War II, when fresh meat was scarce, and the canned, shelf-stable product became a practical alternative for soldiers stationed on the islands. After the war, locals adopted Spam into their kitchens, combining it with traditional Hawaiian ingredients. Over time, it became a beloved part of the cuisine.
Today, Hawaii consumes more Spam per capita than anywhere else in the United States, with over 7 million cans eaten annually (source). With its rich food traditions and farm-to-table ethos, the Big Island incorporates Spam in comforting local staples and inventive modern dishes.
Iconic Spam Dishes to Try on the Big Island
Spam’s versatility makes it a key player in casual eats and creative culinary fare. Here are some iconic Spam dishes you can savor on the Big Island:
Spam Musubi
Perhaps the most quintessential Hawaiian Spam dish, Spam musubi consists of a slice of grilled Spam layered on rice and wrapped in nori (seaweed). It’s the perfect grab-and-go snack, found everywhere, from local delis to gas stations.
Where to try it:
- Suisan Fish Market (Hilo) – Known for its fresh poke, Suisan also offers delicious Spam musubi that locals love.
- KTA Super Stores (multiple locations) – Pick up freshly made Spam musubi at this popular local grocery chain.
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Spam Loco Moco
Loco moco is a Hawaiian comfort food staple typically featuring rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. On the Big Island, many spots offer Spam as a tasty twist on this classic dish.
Where to try it:
- Cafe 100 (Hilo) – This iconic spot, known as the birthplace of the loco moco, offers a Spam version that’s both hearty and affordable.
- Big Island Grill (Kailua-Kona) – A local favorite, this restaurant serves a delicious Spam loco moco with a homemade touch.
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Spam Fried Rice
This dish is a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Featuring Spam, rice, eggs, and vegetables stir-fried to perfection, Spam fried rice is comforting and full of flavor.
Where to try it:
- Ken’s House of Pancakes (Hilo) – This 24-hour diner serves up a filling plate of Spam fried rice as part of its extensive menu.
- Manago Hotel (Captain Cook) – A historic spot known for its simple, delicious Hawaiian food, including Spam fried rice.
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Spam Breakfast Plates
On the Big Island, Spam shines as a breakfast staple. Served alongside rice, eggs, or even wrapped in pancakes, Spam breakfast plates are a must-try.
Where to try it:
- Hawaiian Style Cafe (Hilo) – Famous for its massive portions, Hawaiian Style Cafe serves Spam breakfast plates that are as big on flavor as they are in size.
- Teshima’s Restaurant (Kealakekua) – A cozy spot with a long history, Teshima’s offers a classic Spam breakfast with a side of aloha spirit.
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Creative Fusion: Spam in Modern Dishes
Spam has also inspired chefs on the Big Island to experiment with fusion cuisine, creating inventive new dishes that elevate the humble canned meat. Think Spam poke bowls, Spam tempura, or Spam-filled wontons.
Where to try it:
- Merriman’s (Waimea) – This farm-to-table restaurant is known to incorporate local ingredients, including Spam, into creative dishes.
- Moon and Turtle (Hilo) – A modern eatery with rotating menus, you might find unexpected Spam creations here alongside fresh island flavors.
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Where to Buy Spam Souvenirs on the Big Island
Take a piece of the Big Island’s Spam culture home with you by grabbing some unique Spam souvenirs:
- KTA Super Stores – Shop for limited-edition Spam flavors like Teriyaki, Portuguese Sausage, or Jalapeño Spam.
- Local Markets – Hilo Farmers Market and Kona’s Ali’i Gardens Marketplace often feature Spam-inspired products like T-shirts, keychains, and tote bags.
Make Your Own Spam Musubi: A Hawaiian-Style Recipe
Inspired to try making Spam at home? Here’s a simple recipe for Spam musubi:
Ingredients:
- 1 can of Spam (any flavor)
- 3 cups of cooked white rice
- 4 sheets of nori (seaweed)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Slice Spam into 8 even pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce and sugar.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry Spam slices until lightly browned.
- Add the soy sauce mixture to the pan and cook until the Spam is glazed.
- Place a slice of Spam on top of a small rectangle of rice, then wrap with nori to secure.
- Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap for a portable snack.
Why Spam is a Cultural Icon on the Big Island
Spam on the Big Island isn’t just food—it symbolizes Hawaii’s history, resourcefulness, and culinary creativity. From its wartime origins to its role in modern Hawaiian cuisine, Spam represents blending cultures and traditions that define the Aloha State.
Whether enjoying a Spam musubi from a local market, digging into Spam fried rice at a family-run diner, or savoring a creative fusion dish at an upscale restaurant, the Big Island offers countless ways to celebrate this beloved ingredient.
