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The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Spam Hawaiian Style on the Island of Oahu
Hawaiians have an enduring love affair with Spam, a staple ingredient that has become a cultural icon in the Aloha State. While spam is often dismissed elsewhere as humble canned meat, in Hawaii—particularly in Oahu—it is elevated to legendary status as a versatile and beloved culinary ingredient. From savory breakfasts to creative fusion dishes, Spam has cemented its role in Hawaii’s food culture.
If you're visiting Oahu, this guide will help you discover the best spots to enjoy Spam dishes, learn about its rich history in Hawaii, and even inspire you to try making your own Spam dishes with a Hawaiian twist.
The History of Spam in Hawaii: Why is Spam So Popular?
Spam’s popularity in Hawaii dates back to World War II. With fresh meat hard to come by during the war, the salty, shelf-stable meat product became a practical alternative for soldiers stationed on the islands. After the war, Spam found its way into local kitchens, and islanders began incorporating it into traditional Hawaiian recipes.
Today, Hawaii consumes more Spam per capita than any other state, with over 7 million cans eaten annually (source). The beloved canned meat has become a symbol of Hawaiian culture, with Spam-inspired festivals, T-shirts, and even menu items at fast-food chains like McDonald’s in Hawaii.
Iconic Spam Dishes to Try on Oahu
Spam is incredibly versatile, making it a star ingredient in traditional Hawaiian and modern fusion cuisine. Here are some must-try Spam dishes to sample during your trip to Oahu:
Spam Musubi
Perhaps the most iconic Spam dish in Hawaii, Spam musubi is a sushi-inspired snack that features a slice of fried Spam atop a block of rice wrapped in nori (seaweed). It’s portable, affordable, and delicious—perfect for a beach day or a quick bite.
Where to try it:
- 7-Eleven Hawaii – Yes! The 7-Elevens in Hawaii sell fresh Spam musubi daily.
- Iyasume Musubi (Honolulu) – This local favorite has locations all over Honolulu, and they offer creative variations like teriyaki Spam musubi or musubi with egg.
Spam Fried Rice
A hearty, flavorful dish that combines Spam, scrambled eggs, green onions, and rice, Spam fried rice is a Hawaiian comfort food staple. You’ll often find it served as a side dish at local diners or as a main meal.
Where to try it:
- Zippy’s – This beloved chain serves up a mean plate of Spam fried rice.
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Spam Breakfast Platters
Spam is a popular breakfast meat in Hawaii, often served alongside rice and eggs for a classic Hawaiian breakfast. Some eateries incorporate Spam into omelets or loco moco dishes for an elevated take.
Where to try it:
- Rainbow Drive-In – Famous for its local plate lunches, this spot also serves a delicious Spam breakfast plate. They have 3 locations on Oahu.
- Highway Inn – Known for its traditional Hawaiian food, Highway Inn offers Spam breakfast options with a homestyle vibe. They also have 3 locations on Oahu.
Fusion Creations: Spam in Fine Dining
On Oahu, Spam isn’t limited to casual fare; it has also inspired upscale chefs to create fusion dishes that elevate this humble ingredient. Think Spam katsu sliders, Spam poke, or Spam-stuffed dumplings.
Where to try it:
- The Surfjack Hotel’s Mahina & Sun’s – Known for its locally sourced menu, this spot often includes innovative Spam creations, like Spam fried rice with a gourmet twist.
- MW Restaurant – This award-winning eatery in Honolulu is known for elevating local flavors, including Spam, in imaginative ways.
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Where to Buy Spam Souvenirs on Oahu
Bring a taste of Hawaii home with Spam-themed souvenirs. You can pick up cans of limited-edition flavors, such as Spam Teriyaki or Spam Portuguese Sausage, at local grocery stores like Foodland or Longs Drugs. For quirky memorabilia, visit the Spam Museum gift shop online or check out local shops in Waikiki.
Make Your Own Spam Dish: A Hawaiian-Style Recipe
If you’re inspired to try cooking with Spam, here’s a simple recipe for classic 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 the 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 an on-the-go snack.
Why Spam is More Than Just Food in Hawaii
Spam in Hawaii represents more than a canned meat product—it symbolizes resilience, adaptability, and community. Its long history on the islands, paired with the creativity of Hawaiian chefs, has transformed Spam into a cultural icon.
On your next visit to Oahu, don’t miss the chance to savor this quintessential Hawaiian experience. Whether you’re biting into a Spam musubi, enjoying Spam fried rice, or attending the Waikiki Spam Jam, you’ll appreciate why Hawaii’s love for Spam is unmatched.
