Do I have to eat pork? (restaurants, move, food)

[TheE]

I visited Hawaii a few years ago and pig was on the menu every (tourist) restaurant I saw. I'm a vegan and I understand that there are options for me in Hawaii. (I just didn't find that many when I was there) However, someone told me that if I go to a traditional activity (like a Luau) refusing to eat pork is a sign of disrespect to the people and the culture. I know the saying "When in Rome" but there is no way I will ever willingly eat a piece of meat. Would I offend you if I said no thanks, or will you think I am disrespectful?

[melaniej65]

Eat what you wish- it is the WAY that one refuses that may cause insult. Do not go on and on about being a vegan; simply say "no thank you" and go about your meal!

There are so many fruits and vegetables here in the Islands it IS a bit difficult to find nothing to consume, including many of the rice dishes and noodles that are served. There are many stir fry rice & veggies and most are happy to prepare them with veggie/safflower oil sans protein if they are asked politely with condemnation (after all there are many who are veggies and vegans here and I know that they are not starving!).

[Mar0]

I think that if you refused to eat something, locals would not take any offense. Locals here are very considerate and understanding, aka full of aloha, and would never push something on you that you were uncomfortable with. In fact, many of our foods are not appreciated by visitors, and we expect that- not everyone enjoys poi, spam or a unique food such as laulau.

That being said, I can understand how it would be hard to find something to eat as a vegan. Many local foods are deep fried and are meat dishes are common. Like the above poster said, there still are options out there, so if you are a vegan don't be afraid to visit!

[hothulamaui]

most luau are a tourist production and a buffett style so pick what you want. there are many local foods that I don't eat, again it isn't a problem, you could alsways put a small amount on your plate if you feel odd and move it around a bit but I wouldn't worry about it. there are lots of places that offer food without the pork no worries

[hotzcatz]

If it is a tourist restaurant there probably aren't many ways to insult them since they sort of expect tourists to behave oddly.

[Mick St John]

Pork consumption is required on all of the islands. It's in the agreement you sign before you get off the plane. Be sure to read the fine print.

[whynot?]

There are a number of religious groups and similar philosophical concerns in the islands that either discourage or prohibit the consumption of pork. This is not something that a diverse, multi-culturally-aware population will make a big deal of if you do not make a big deal of it. We have had vegan guests, and have called ahead to restaurants to request that certain dishes not be served at our table, or that our guests not be put in awkward circumstances. I wouldn't worry about the pork, per se.

Enjoy your stay.

[R_Cowgirl]

I posted quite a few links on an earlier thread about finding Vegan restaurants and resources in Hawaii: https://www.city-data.com/forum/hawai...ml#post9106802

Don't listen to peope who tell you things like, "In Hawaii you have to..." Good heavens - there are 1.3 million people there. Trust me, they don't all walk in lock step. Be polite, be kind, be respectful, and don't go around saying, "Well, back in the states..." or "EUUUUWWWw, you eat THAT?" Avoid lecturing people on not being like you, and you'll probably be fine.

[mdand3boys]

R_Cowgirl makes a good point.
Don't make a big deal out of your food choice to others, as in don't preach to them. Don't make faces at what others eat. Don't even bother to mention "I am a vegan" just simply and quietly pass on those items you do not wish to eat. Then, no one will care.

[TheE]

Thank you all. LOL. I don't preach to people about my food choices. I'm coming to Hawaii in a few days again, and I was concerned about offending. Thank you Cowgirl for the link.