Are Luaus Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly?
One of the more stressful things for people with dietary restrictions to worry about during a vacation is ensuring there is somewhere for you to eat. Whether these restrictions are voluntary, religious, or related to a medical condition, you shouldn’t have to scour a city or, in our case, an island to locate tasty options. Vegetarians and vegans, for example, can find plenty to eat anywhere Hawaii, but what about at a luau?
If you’re on the fence about booking a luau because you’re worried about the famously pork- and seafood-intensive menu, we have some great news for you! Not only are luaus filled with exciting entertainment and family-friendly fun, they’re also safe for vegans and vegetarians.
And no, you won’t have to just eat the salad!
Vegan and Vegetarian Luau Options
Being a vegetarian or a vegan at a luau can seem a little tricky, especially as you stare down at the kalua pig and lomi lomi salmon everyone’s digging into. Don’t despair, you definitely won’t have an empty plate. As we mentioned, pork, chicken, and fish are very big at luaus. But there are also lots of plant-based delicacies that you’re likely to find at any Hawaiian luau.
The root of the taro plant, for example is mashed into a staple dish called poi, which is 100% vegan. Poi is one of the iconic side dishes found at every luau. As delicious as it is, poi won’t be the only thing for you to eat. Every luau is different, of course, but rice and vegetables are common dishes at all of them. While everyone is digging into kalua pork, you can be delighting in your own tropical flavors.
Can You Give Me a Few Examples?
Sure! Rock-A-Hula Luau, for example, offers lots of vegan options, including locally grown sweet potatoes, a whole fresh sweet pineapple, tofu poke, long rice salad, and even a grilled vegan garden patty. Chief’s Luau at Wet ‘n Wild also looks out for its vegan guests with a menu of mixed island greens, pineapple, steamed white rice, sweet potatoes, and, of course, poi. The Alii Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a delicious vegetarian chili to complement their wide array of fruits and vegetables.
You might be concerned about finding food you can eat at these festive Hawaiian parties, but there’s no need to be. Dietary restrictions aren’t a new concept, and Hawaiian luaus have always made sure to cater to them. If you’re worried about the menu, no matter your restrictions, just ask when you book your reservation. Luaus are usually very accommodating.
