Pronunciation: oh-noh

In Hawaiian, ‘ono means delicious — and around Hawaii, you’ll hear it a lot, especially when talking about food.

Locals will say, “That was so ‘ono!” after a really good meal, whether it’s fresh poke, a plate lunch, or shave ice on a hot day. ‘Ono can be used for anything tasty — it’s the go-to compliment for food that hits the spot.

Some people even confuse ‘ono with the ono fish (also called wahoo), which is popular in local dishes. But when you hear someone say something is ‘ono, they’re not just talking about fish — they’re talking about food that’s truly satisfying and delicious.

Local Tip: 
If you want to sound local, skip saying “delicious” and call your food ‘ono instead. It’s a small word with big flavor— just like the dishes you’ll find all across the islands.

Cultural Note:
In Hawaii, food isn’t just about eating— it’s about gathering, sharing, and showing love. Calling something ‘ono is a way of celebrating that connection through flavors that bring people together.

When you’re ready to explore Hawaii, we’re here to help you find all the ‘ono moments along the way. Contact us today.