03-15-2025
Best Places to Eat Manapua
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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Where to Find the Best Manapua in Hawaii
If you’re visiting Hawaii or just craving a delicious bite, manapua is a must-try. These fluffy, steamed, baked buns—filled with savory or sweet fillings—are Hawaii’s take on the classic Chinese char siu bao. While many places serve them, a few spots are local favorites.
Here’s your ultimate guide to finding the best manapua in Hawaii, with top-rated bakeries and hidden gems locals swear by.
What Makes a Great Manapua?
The best manapua has a soft, pillowy dough with a flavorful, well-seasoned filling. Traditional manapua is stuffed with char siu (Chinese-style BBQ pork), but you’ll also find creative variations like curry chicken, sweet black bean, or even kalua pork. Steamed manapua is soft and fluffy, while baked manapua has a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
Manapua isn’t just a blatantly delectable food. It’s a unique piece of history. It’s deep connection to Chinese culture is one more testament to how globally significant and connected Hawaiian history and culture itself is. Tasting it while you visit is to participate, in your own momentary way, in this marvelous phenomenon; particularly so if you make the encouraged choice to do so at a prized local venue.
As always, eating local food at the local spots is a brilliant opportunity for connection. We always recommend venturing in this direction; few places are as rewarding as Hawaii when one does so.
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Published by: John C. Derrick
Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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