Why Hawaiian Food Thrives in Monterey
The salty air of Monterey Bay might call to mind clam chowder and fresh catches of the day, but a surprising and vibrant culinary secret lies nestled amongst the seafood restaurants and tourist attractions: a taste of the Hawaiian Islands. Forget your expectations of solely California cuisine; here, the spirit of Aloha thrives, offering a delicious escape to a world of poke bowls overflowing with vibrant flavors, plate lunches piled high with succulent kalua pig, and shave ice that melts in your mouth like a tropical dream. Monterey’s culinary landscape is more diverse than you might think, and the Hawaiian food scene is a testament to that, providing locals and visitors alike with an authentic and satisfying experience. From established restaurants dedicated to preserving the traditions of Hawaiian cuisine to innovative chefs putting their own spin on classic dishes, Monterey provides a unique opportunity to savor the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. Establishments like L&L Hawaiian Barbecue and Poke Lab Eatery stand out, offering a true taste of Aloha on the Central Coast.
The question naturally arises: why Hawaiian food in Monterey? While a direct, well-documented historical connection might be elusive, several factors contribute to the presence and popularity of Hawaiian cuisine in this coastal Californian city. Monterey boasts a diverse culinary scene, embracing a wide array of flavors from around the world. This openness to different cultures and cuisines creates a fertile ground for Hawaiian food to flourish. The city attracts a significant number of tourists annually, many of whom have experienced Hawaiian cuisine on vacation and are eager to relive those culinary memories. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of poke, a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, has created a broader awareness and appreciation for the flavors of the islands.
The appeal of Hawaiian food is undeniable. It’s a cuisine that perfectly balances fresh, high-quality ingredients with bold and comforting flavors. The emphasis on fresh fish, tropical fruits, and flavorful marinades makes it a healthy and satisfying option. Dishes like poke are visually appealing and customizable, allowing diners to create their perfect bowl. The communal aspect of sharing a plate lunch or enjoying shave ice with friends contributes to the overall appeal. Beyond the food itself, the spirit of Aloha, with its emphasis on hospitality and warmth, creates a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. Montereyans seem to appreciate these qualities, contributing to the sustained demand for Hawaiian food in the region.
Spotlight on Hawaiian Restaurants in Monterey
Let’s explore some of the key players in Monterey’s Hawaiian food scene, each offering a unique perspective on the flavors of the islands.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue: A Plate Lunch Paradise
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, a well-known chain with roots in Hawaii, has established a strong presence in Monterey, providing a reliable source for authentic plate lunch fare. Founded in Honolulu, L&L brought the quintessential Hawaiian plate lunch experience to the mainland, and its Monterey location stays true to that mission.
Their signature dish is undoubtedly the classic plate lunch, which typically includes two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad, and your choice of a main protein. The kalua pig is a standout option, slow-cooked to tender perfection and infused with smoky flavors. The chicken katsu, crispy breaded chicken served with a tangy katsu sauce, is another popular choice. Don’t overlook the teriyaki beef, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to juicy perfection. The macaroni salad, a creamy and slightly sweet staple, completes the plate and provides a comforting counterpoint to the savory proteins.
The atmosphere at L&L is casual and family-friendly, reflecting the relaxed spirit of the islands. It’s a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying lunch or a casual dinner with friends. “L&L always hits the spot when I’m craving a taste of Hawaii,” says local resident Maria Rodriguez. “The kalua pig is so tender and flavorful, and the macaroni salad is the perfect accompaniment.”
Poke Lab Eatery: Fresh and Customizable Bowls
Poke Lab Eatery offers a more modern take on Hawaiian cuisine, focusing on customizable poke bowls with a wide array of fresh ingredients and flavor combinations. This allows customers to craft their perfect poke experience.
The star of the show is, of course, the poke itself. Poke Lab offers a variety of protein options, including ahi tuna, salmon, octopus, and tofu, all marinated in different sauces. The classic shoyu poke, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, is a popular choice, but adventurous eaters can try the spicy mayo poke or the citrusy ponzu poke. The base of the bowl can be white rice, brown rice, or even a salad. Toppings abound, including avocado, seaweed salad, edamame, cucumber, mango, and a variety of crunchy additions like fried onions and sesame seeds.
The atmosphere at Poke Lab is bright and modern, reflecting the fresh and innovative approach to Hawaiian cuisine. It’s a great spot for a healthy and customizable lunch or dinner. “I love the Poke Lab because I can create my perfect bowl every time,” says visitor David Lee. “The ingredients are always fresh, and the staff is friendly and helpful.”
A Taste of Hawaii: Exploring Specific Dishes
Delving deeper into the specifics, Hawaiian cuisine has many components that make it unique.
Poke: Hawaii’s Culinary Ambassador
Poke, meaning “to slice” or “cut crosswise” in Hawaiian, has become a global phenomenon, and for good reason. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of cubed raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in a variety of sauces and seasonings. Its roots lie in ancient Hawaii, where fishermen would season their catch with salt, seaweed, and limu (seaweed). Over time, poke evolved with the introduction of new ingredients from Asian and Western cultures.
In Monterey, you’ll find a variety of poke variations. Ahi poke remains a classic, featuring sushi-grade tuna marinated in shoyu (soy sauce), sesame oil, and green onions. Salmon poke offers a richer and more buttery flavor. Vegetarian options, such as tofu poke, are also becoming increasingly popular. To find the best poke in Monterey, head to Poke Lab Eatery, where you can customize your bowl with a wide array of fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. Other restaurants may also offer poke as an appetizer or side dish.
Plate Lunch: The Heart of Hawaiian Comfort Food
The plate lunch is the quintessential Hawaiian comfort food, a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and filling lunch. Typically, a plate lunch consists of two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad, and a main protein. This simple combination provides a complete and balanced meal that’s packed with flavor.
Popular plate lunch options include kalua pig, slow-cooked pork that’s incredibly tender and smoky; chicken katsu, crispy breaded chicken served with a tangy katsu sauce; teriyaki beef, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce; and short ribs, braised until tender and falling off the bone. The macaroni salad, a creamy and slightly sweet staple, provides a comforting counterpoint to the savory proteins. For an authentic plate lunch experience in Monterey, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is an excellent choice.
Shave Ice: A Sweet and Refreshing Treat
No Hawaiian culinary journey is complete without indulging in shave ice, a sweet and refreshing treat that’s perfect for a hot day. Shave ice is made by shaving a block of ice into a fine, snow-like consistency and then flavoring it with a variety of syrups.
Popular shave ice flavors include pineapple, mango, guava, passion fruit, and coconut. Many shave ice stands also offer toppings like sweetened condensed milk, azuki beans, and mochi balls. While not exclusively found *only* in Hawaiian restaurants, if you are having a Hawaiian dish elsewhere it is often a wonderful option to get nearby. The light nature of the ice makes it a tasty dessert to wash things down and cleanse your palate.
Beyond the Food: Embracing the Aloha Spirit
The Hawaiian experience extends beyond the food itself. The “Aloha Spirit,” characterized by warmth, hospitality, and friendliness, is an integral part of the culture. Many Hawaiian restaurants in Monterey strive to embody this spirit, creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience for their customers.
While not always explicitly present, the laid-back and friendly atmosphere in many of these establishments reflects the spirit of Aloha. The focus on providing generous portions and satisfying meals contributes to the overall feeling of abundance and hospitality. Exploring these restaurants is a good way to appreciate the effort put into the restaurants.
Creating a Hawaiian Vibe at Home
Even if you can’t visit Monterey right now, you can still create a Hawaiian meal or experience at home. There are many resources available online for Hawaiian recipes, from poke to plate lunch to haupia (coconut pudding). You can also find Hawaiian ingredients at many Asian markets or online retailers.
To create a Hawaiian vibe, put on some Hawaiian music, decorate your dining area with tropical flowers, and embrace the spirit of Aloha. Sharing a Hawaiian meal with friends and family is a great way to experience the warmth and hospitality of the islands, even from afar.
Conclusion
Monterey offers a surprising and delightful Hawaiian food experience, providing a taste of Aloha on the Central Coast. From authentic plate lunches to customizable poke bowls, the Hawaiian restaurants in Monterey cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious local, exploring the Hawaiian food scene in Monterey is a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.
So, next time you’re in Monterey, consider trading the clam chowder for kalua pig and discover a different side of the city’s culinary landscape. Explore the flavors of the islands, embrace the spirit of Aloha, and experience the true meaning of ‘ono’ – delicious! Venture out to try something new and appreciate the flavors of Monterey in new ways.
