4 Must-Try Spots for Authentic Huli Huli Chicken in Oahu

Forget the tourist traps and fancy restaurants – Oahu’s real culinary treasure is hiding in plain sight. We’re talking about Huli Huli chicken, a local favorite that’ll make your taste buds do the hula.

Picture this: juicy chicken marinated in a secret blend of spices, slow-cooked to perfection, and served with fluffy rice and fresh veggies. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you saying “mahalo” with every bite.

My boyfriend and I have become Huli Huli chicken connoisseurs during our Oahu adventures. We’ve crisscrossed the island, sampling this Hawaiian delicacy from food trucks and hole-in-the-wall joints. Now, we’re ready to spill the beans on where to find the best Huli Huli chicken on the island.

Buckle up, food lovers! We’re about to take you on a mouthwatering tour of Oahu’s Huli Huli hotspots. Get ready to experience the island’s tastiest secret – no lei required.

Mike’s Huli Chicken: A Taste of Oahu’s Best

Cruising down Kamehameha Highway? Keep your eyes peeled for a big yellow school bus at the Kahuku Sugar Mill. That’s Mike’s Huli Chicken, an island hotspot that’s so good, it caught the attention of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”.

Chef Mike Fuse is the mastermind behind this mouthwatering operation. His secret? Kiawe wood-roasted chicken that’ll make your taste buds do the hula. Each plate comes loaded with smoky, flavorful chicken, fluffy rice, creamy mac salad, and sweet pineapple slices.

But don’t stop at the chicken! Mike’s menu is a flavor explosion. From Char Siu BBQ Pork to Garlic Shrimp, every dish gets a generous drizzle of Mike’s special sauce. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Here are some insider tips:

  • Can’t choose? Go for the combo plate and sample two proteins.
  • Take the flavor home! Mike sells his spice rub and sauces by the bottle.
  • For a unique experience, chow down inside the cozy bus seating area.

Mike’s Huli Chicken isn’t just food – it’s an Oahu institution. So when you’re cruising the North Shore, make a pit stop here. Your taste buds will thank you!

Address: 56-565 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Oahu

Hours: Open 11am-5pm (Closed Wednesdays)

Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken: Haleiwa’s Hidden Gem

Craving some finger-lickin’ good Huli Huli chicken? Head to the charming town of Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore. Nestled among stunning views, you’ll find Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken, a local favorite that’s worth the drive.

What makes Ray’s stand out? It’s all about that Kiawe wood smoke[1]. This special cooking method keeps the chicken juicy and infuses it with an irresistible smoky flavor. Topped with a blend of fresh spices, each bite is a flavor explosion.

Ray’s full chicken plate is a feast fit for two. It comes with a tangy pineapple slaw and fluffy rice, all drenched in a mouthwatering sauce. This secret concoction, made from shoyu and Hawaiian chili peppers, takes the dish to a whole new level.

Here are some insider tips for your Ray’s experience:

  • Watch the magic happen: The chicken is broiled in an open-top trailer, filling the air with an aroma that’ll make your stomach growl.
  • For easier eating, ask for your chicken cut into smaller pieces.
  • Plan for takeout – there’s no seating nearby, but who needs chairs when you’ve got beautiful Hawaiian scenery?

Ray’s is only open on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly[1]. Trust me, it’s worth scheduling your North Shore adventure around this chicken!

Address: 66-160 Kamehameha Hwy Parking Lot, Haleiwa, Oahu

Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 9am – 5pm

Maui Mike’s Fire-Roasted Chicken: A Hidden Gem in Wahiawa

When it comes to authentic Huli Huli chicken, sometimes the best spots are the unassuming ones. Enter Maui Mike’s Fire-Roasted Chicken, a small but mighty eatery that’s making waves in Wahiawa.

While Maui Mike’s puts a unique spin on the traditional Huli Huli recipe, their version is a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. They roast the chicken to perfection, then slather it in a spicy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance. The result? Juicy, tender meat that’s bursting with flavor.

Here’s what to order:

  • Half chicken plate with creamy coleslaw and crispy Cajun fries
  • BBQ chicken sandwich (trust us, it’s a game-changer)

Insider tips:

  • Service is lightning-fast – you’ll be digging in minutes after ordering[1]
  • Portions are generous and prices won’t break the bank
  • Free drink refills with your meal (score!)

Heads up: There’s no seating area, so plan for a picnic or car feast[1]. Pro tip: Grab your food after visiting the nearby Dole Plantation for the perfect lunch combo.

Address: 96 S Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, Oahu

Hours: Open daily 11am-8pm

Maui Mike’s might not be traditional Huli Huli, but their fire-roasted chicken is a must-try Oahu experience. Your taste buds will thank you!

Koala Moa: A Taste of Authentic Huli Huli Chicken

Craving that old-school Huli Huli flavor? Look no further than Koala Moa. This small eatery is keeping the traditional taste alive, serving up the same mouthwatering chicken that made Huli Huli famous decades ago[1][2].

Here’s what to try:

  • The Jumbo plate: A hefty portion of fall-off-the-bone tender chicken, infused with smoky Kiawe flavors
  • Mix and match: Choose up to three sides like rice, mac salad, kimchi, or corn
  • For the ultimate feast: Share a full chicken and their famous Lemongrass Ribs

What sets Koala Moa apart is their commitment to authentic Hawaiian flavors. Each bite is a trip down memory lane, reminiscent of the fundraiser chickens many locals grew up with.

Insider tips:

  • Enjoy your meal in their comfortable, uncrowded indoor dining area
  • Big portions at reasonable prices – perfect for hungry travelers on a budget
  • Planning an event? They offer catering with live cooking

Koala Moa isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a local institution. Open daily (except Mondays) from 10am to 6pm, it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your Huli Huli cravings.

Address: 1199 Dillingham Blvd Ste C108, Honolulu, Oahu

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Huli Huli chicken, Koala Moa offers a taste of Hawaii that’ll keep you coming back for more. Don’t miss this hidden gem on your Oahu food adventure!

Wrap-Up: Your Ultimate Guide to Oahu’s Best Huli Huli Chicken

No trip to Oahu is complete without sinking your teeth into some authentic Huli Huli chicken. This local favorite has been a Hawaiian staple for decades, and for good reason. Forget the fancy restaurants – the real deal is found at roadside stands and food trucks across the island.
Here’s your cheat sheet for the best Huli Huli experiences on Oahu:
Mike’s Huli Chicken: Unique spices and mouthwatering lunch plates that’ll have you coming back for more.
Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken: Smoky flavors that’ll transport your taste buds to chicken heaven.
Maui Mike’s Fire-Roasted Chicken: A spicy twist on the classic that’s worth the detour.
Koala Moa: The go-to spot for that authentic, old-school Huli Huli taste.
Remember, these aren’t just meals – they’re a bite of Hawaiian culture. Each spot offers its own unique take on this island classic, from secret spice blends to special smoking techniques.
Pro tip: Many of these places are only open on weekends or have limited hours, so plan ahead. And don’t be surprised if you see locals lining up – that’s how you know you’ve found the good stuff!
So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, make sure to add these Huli Huli hotspots to your Oahu itinerary. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this flavorful adventure across the island!


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