If you've ever dined at Trader Vic’s or visited Hawaii, you may have come across the word pūpū on a menu. But what does it mean? Pūpū (pronounced poo-poo) is a Hawaiian term that refers to small, bite-sized appetizers—delicious, shareable plates perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
Pūpū: More Than Just an Appetizer
In Hawaiian culture, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way to bring people together. Pūpū are often served in variety platters, offering a mix of flavors, textures, and influences from different culinary traditions. Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail at Trader Vic’s or enjoying a beachside luau, a selection of pūpū is the perfect way to start any meal.
Pūpū Around the World
While pūpū are a Hawaiian tradition, the concept of small, shareable plates is embraced across many cultures:
🇪🇸 Tapas – In Spain, tapas are small dishes ranging from olives and cheeses to sizzling shrimp and croquettes, designed for sharing over drinks.
🇱🇧 Mezza – A staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, mezza includes a variety of dips, breads, skewers, and salads served as appetizers or even as a full meal.
🇫🇷 Canapés – In France, canapés are elegant bite-sized hors d’oeuvres, often topped with cheese, smoked salmon, or pâté, and served at festive gatherings.
Pūpū at Trader Vic’s
At Trader Vic’s, we honor the tradition of pūpū by offering a delicious selection of island-inspired appetizers, perfect for sharing:
🥢 Trader Vic’s Pupu Platter – A mix of our signature bites, great for two or more.
🦀 Crab Rangoon – Crispy wontons filled with creamy crab goodness.
🍢 BBQ Pork Spare Ribs – Tender, flavorful ribs with our signature sauce.
🍗 Crispy Chicken Wings – A must-try with our house-made dipping sauces.
Pair these pūpū with one of our world-famous Mai Tais or shared cocktails, and you’ve got the perfect start to a tropical dining experience.
So next time you see pūpū on the menu, remember—it’s not just an appetizer, it’s a Hawaiian way of bringing people together over great food and drinks.
Join Us for a Pūpū Feast
Whether you’re visiting for happy hour, date night, or just craving a taste of the islands, Trader Vic’s is the perfect place to enjoy authentic pūpū. Gather your crew and let’s feast! 🍹🌺