Oahu’s melting pot of cultures means we are gifted with a plethora of culinary flavors from throughout the world. From Japan’s rice-based dishes to the mainland’s Cajun infused delicacies originating from Louisiana, our taste buds are able to travel without ever leaving home.

And the best part? This expedition doesn’t have to put a hole in your wallet. With a number of street food vendors serving up delicious dishes, this tasty experience can be enjoyed with any budget.

Here are seven exciting street food dishes that have burst onto the scene with a local fusion flare.

 

Andagi

andagi
Image via Yelp

The andagi is a traditional Japanese deep-fried doughnut that usually makes its way to the Hawaiian Islands during the big summer bon dance festivals. But lucky for us, Da Andagi Guy serves them all year long! The shop has a stand every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday just outside the entrance of Don Quixote in Waipahu.

 

Huli Huli Chicken

chicken
Image via Mike’s Huli Chicken

There’s no mistaking the Hawaiian style-barbecue chicken cooked up by Mike’s Huli Chicken in Kaneohe and Waikiki. The distinction comes from the broiling of the chicken over Kiawe wood and flavoring it with traditional Hawaiian sea salt.

 

Waffle Dog

waffle
Image via KC Waffle Dog

KC Waffle Dogs are a hit at many local events and festivals – and their appeal is not surprising. Made with a light batter, the dogs have a soft, fluffy center and crispy, crunchy edges and are dressed with typical hot dog condiments, such as mustard, or a waffle’s best friend, maple syrup.

 

Poi Mochi

poi mochi
Image via Uncle Lani’s Poi Mochi

The crunchy and savory combo of poi and mochi is a match made in heaven. Mochi, made with Japanese sticky rice, is mixed in with poi for a soft bite. Uncle Lani’s Poi Mochi in Kapolei creates this treat to perfection and sells them by the box.

 

Local-style Lemonade

lemonade
Image via Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade

These handcrafted lemonades come in different flavors such as pineapple, lilikoi (passion fruit) and pitaya (dragon fruit) and are served in a reusable mason jar. The best part? Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade uses locally sourced fruits from local farmers to make their famous drinks.

 

Deep Fried Musubi

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Image via Hawaii’s Fried Musubi

Hawaii’s Fried Musubi Food Truck is bringing a special twist to an island favorite. Flash-fried battered furikake encrusted musubis of all selections including the classic spam, Hawaiian styled ahi poke and spicy bomb tuna are served in this local grub spot.

 

Garlic Shrimp

shrimp
Image via Yelp

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck has become the epitome of fresh, side-of-the-road shrimp in Haleiwa. The food truck serves a dozen jumbo shrimps with two scoops of rice in a variety of combinations including Shrimp Scampi, Lemon Butter Shrimp and Hot & Spicy Shrimp.