Mahimahi/Dolphin Fish/Dorado

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It is sometimes called the Dolphin fish, or Dorado. The mahimahi is a favorite among seafood lovers world-wide. The mahimahi often gathered in schools and usually found throughout the Pacific, and in warm water of Florida.

This fish has a light pink flesh which turns white once cooked, moist, flaky, and mild flavored.

Ulua/Pompano

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The ulua is also known as pompano, but when it is less than 10 pounds, it is known as Papio. This is the ultimate game fish in Hawaii since it can be caught off shore by rod and reel.

Ono/Wahoo

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Ono is also known as Wahoo, and means good to eat in Hawaiian. This fish has a white, flaky, delicate, sweet, and lean taste. The ono becomes popular in recent years when chefs look for substitution to the mahimahi.

Onaga/Ruby Snapper/Long-Tail Red Snapper

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Onaga is also known as long-tail red snapper or ruby snapper. This is Hawaiian favorite fish. The onaga has a light pink flesh, and second most important bottomfish in total weight and value. It is peak during December, in demand for New Year, and wedding celebrations.
Onaga has a delicate taste and often use to serve raw (sashimi style).

Ahi/Bigeye/Yellowfin Tuna

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Ahi is also known as Bigeye and Yellowfin tuna, and the word ahi means fire. Ahi is in the tuna species, and can be served raw (sashimi style).

Ahi has a deep red color flesh, which turns white once cooked. The fat content is higher in the larger fishes, deeper red color, and higher price.

Well, if you did not catch one of these fishes for dinner, you know a little more about them when you are in the restaurant.

Native Hawaiians originate from the Polynesian South Pacific and came to the islands around AD 500. The Hawaiian language is closely related to Polynesian and basically consists of 12 letters. Hawaiian speak consonants: k,l,m,n,p,w and the vowels: a,e,i,o,u. Of course, the state is English speaking, but there's a revival going on to bring back native language & culture in schools.

Today, a lot of Hawaiian words are part of the American lexicon. Here are the more recognizable ones. For a little fun, we've added our own meaning.

• Akamai- smart,brainy, "The Trusted Choice for online business."
• Alii - ancient Hawaiian royalty - Long live the king!
• Hale - a house that you will never be able to afford
• Haole- foreigner, mainlander, pays full price.
• Heiau - a pile of rocks where you leave fruit and wine coolers to ward off the wrath of the deities, "Fruit of the Gods"
• Hula - a dance, a giant hoop that made millions.
• Kahuna - the boss, the chief or gnarly surf dude
• Kamaaina - old-timer Hawaiian, your passport to island discounts
• Keiki - young child, rugrat, brat
• Lanai - veranda, porch, a room with a view for cheap/poor visitors from the mainland.
• Lei - garland of flowers, what tourists think is the word for sex
• Luau - traditional Hawaiian feast or when tourists pay $90.00 each to eat poi with their fingers and watch sexy naked locals get down.
• Mele - song or chant. Mele Christmas!
• Muumuu- loose-fitting gown or tent by Omar
• Ono- delicious, yummy, Yoko's last name
• Pupu- hors-d'oeuvres that don't stink.
• Shaka- hang loose hand greeting, not the singer
• Kapu - taboo which I have made mocking the Hawaiian gods with this piece.

Aloha!