Mexican Restaurants in Hawaii

Hawaii might not be the first place you think of for Mexican food, but trust me, some spots here really know how to bring the heat. You won’t find just your average taco truck,there’s a cool mix of influences that give the food a unique island twist. For example, on Oahu, go beyond Waikiki and hit up tiny neighborhoods like Kaimuki where Taqueria El Ranchito has killer al pastor that locals swear by.

On Maui, lots of people head straight to down-to-earth joints like Casanova’s Taqueria that feel more like a family reunion than a restaurant. And if you’re in Kona on the Big Island, keep an eye out for pop-ups featuring freshly caught fish in their ceviches or fish tacos, because that local flare makes all the difference.

Pro tip: Always ask if they have anything spicy or off-menu,some chefs here like to get creative with Hawaiian peppers or fresh island chilies, which you won’t find on the mainland. Mexican food in Hawaii is fun because it’s familiar but never boring, kind of like the islands themselves.