15 Buffet Hawaiian Party Food Ideas

Discover delicious and easy Hawaiian buffet party food ideas perfect for your next tropical-themed gathering.

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

pineapple teriyaki chicken skewers

Juicy chunks of chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce paired with fresh pineapple, then grilled to perfection. These skewers offer a delightful blend of flavors, making them a favorite at any Hawaiian-themed buffet.

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders combine slow-cooked, tender pork with a sweet and tangy pineapple slaw, all nestled in soft, mini Hawaiian rolls. This dish adds a deliciously juicy and flavorful option to your buffet, capturing the essence of Hawaiian BBQ in each bite.

Lomi Lomi Salmon

Lomi Lomi Salmon is a refreshing Hawaiian dish featuring diced tomatoes, onions, and salted salmon mixed together. It’s typically served chilled and complements the spicy and savory flavors of a luau-themed buffet.

Tuna Poke Bowls

Tuna Poke Bowls offer a refreshing and light option, showcasing raw tuna marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil. This dish is served over rice and garnished with green onions, seaweed, and sesame seeds, embodying the vibrant flavors of Hawaii.

Spam Musubi

Spam Musubi features a slice of grilled Spam on a block of rice, wrapped with nori, presenting a unique fusion of Hawaiian and Japanese flavors. This portable snack is a popular choice for its savory taste and ease of serving at large gatherings.

Tropical Fruit Salad With Mango and Papaya

A tropical fruit salad featuring mango and papaya brings a sweet, refreshing element to your Hawaiian buffet. This dish complements the savory flavors of meats and seafood with its juicy, vibrant taste.

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice adds a creamy, tropical flavor that complements the spicy and savory dishes at a Hawaiian buffet. It is typically made by cooking rice with coconut milk, which infuses each bite with a hint of sweetness and rich aroma.

Hawaiian BBQ Ribs

Hawaiian BBQ Ribs are marinated in a unique blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, giving them a sweet and savory flavor. They’re slow-cooked until tender, making them a perfect addition to the buffet’s hearty selections.

Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi

Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi offers a delightful crunch and rich flavor, elevating this tender fish to a luxe dish. Its nutty crust pairs perfectly with the succulent texture of mahi mahi, making it a standout at any Hawaiian-themed buffet.

Haupia (Coconut Pudding)

Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert featuring a velvety texture from coconut milk thickened with arrowroot or cornstarch. This sweet, creamy pudding often garnishes buffet tables at Hawaiian-themed parties, providing a refreshing end to the feast.

Poi (Taro Root Paste)

Poi provides a smooth, mildly sweet base that complements stronger flavors at a Hawaiian buffet. This traditional dish, made from mashed taro root, serves as a staple, enhancing the overall balance of the meal.

Kalua Pork

Kalua Pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is slow-cooked in an underground oven, giving it a distinct smoky flavor. This tender, shredded pork is a staple at luaus and adds an authentic touch to any Hawaiian-themed buffet.

Grilled Pineapple With Cinnamon

Grilled pineapple with cinnamon provides a sweet and spicy twist, perfect for enhancing the tropical vibe of a Hawaiian-themed buffet. This dessert option not only tantalizes the taste buds but also doubles as an aromatic centerpiece.

Huli Huli Chicken Wings

Huli Huli Chicken Wings are marinated in a blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, then grilled to perfection. This dish offers a savory and slightly sweet taste that encapsulates the tropical flavors of Hawaii.

Passion Fruit Trifle

Passion Fruit Trifle offers a delightful finish to a Hawaiian-themed buffet, layering bright tropical flavors with creamy textures. This dessert elegantly combines the tartness of passion fruit with smooth custard and fluffy cake, capturing the essence of island sweetness.