Saimin: Hawaiʻi's noodle soup and where to get it

Saimin is Hawaiʻi's own noodle soup, born in the plantation era, with wavy noodles in light dashi broth topped with green onion, kamaboko and char siu. Classics: Hamura Saimin in Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi (since 1952, cash only, famous lilikoʻi chiffon pie), Palace Saimin in Kalihi, Shiro's Saimin Haven in ʻAiea, and Sam Sato's dry mein on Maui.

• Hamura Saimin: 2956 Kress St., Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi; since 1952; counter seating; cash only; get the lilikoʻi chiffon pie.
• Palace Saimin: 1256 N. King St., Honolulu (Kalihi); old-school, recipes unchanged since the 1940s.
• Shiro's Saimin Haven: ʻAiea (98-020 Kamehameha Hwy.); 60+ versions, since 1969.
• Sam Sato's (Wailuku, Maui): dry mein, a Maui twist with the broth on the side.
• Zippy's: Oʻahu's local diner chain also serves saimin at many locations.
• Hours change and many small spots sell out or close early; call or check online before you go.

Sources: Onolicious Hawaiʻi: Hamura Saimin · Hawaiʻi Guide: Best saimin on Oʻahu (Mar. 2026) · Hawaiʻi Magazine: 12 dishes every traveler to Kauaʻi should try

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.