20 Best Restaurants in American Samoa

Nestled right by the beach with stunning harbour views, Goat Island Cafe at Sadie's by the Sea offers one of American Samoa's most atmospheric dining experiences. And the food ain't half bad either.

Part of the renowned Sadie's Hotels group, this waterfront restaurant has earned a reputation for its vibrant Friday evening live band performances from 5:30 to 9 pm, complete with happy hour from 4 to 6 pm.

The extensive menu masterfully blends authentic Samoan flavours with international cuisine, serving everything from hearty breakfast options to sophisticated dinner selections. Local favourites include "Sadie's Oka", a beloved dish of raw fish with coconut, lime, onions and ginger, and "Sadie's Poke" served with taro, nachos or rice.

The seafood selection particularly shines, featuring grilled wahoo prepared multiple ways and Atlantic salmon, whilst their house favourite ribeye steak represents the premium end of their offerings. Daily specials keep the menu exciting with rotating dishes like seafood chowder, Reuben sandwiches, Fijian chicken curry with homemade roti and BBQ ribs.

This one is well worth scouting out, hidden away in the Laufou Shopping Center (and, trust us, it's far better than Carl's Jr). Koko Bean Cafe isn't just a place to grab breakfast, but it's open all the way to dinner, so there's no excuse not to pop in.

The extensive menu features everything from fresh salads and creative sushi rolls to flavourful poke bowls, ensuring there's something for every palate.

The mains showcase impressive variety, with smoked specialities like ribeye steak and pork chops alongside seafood favourites including fish and chips, grilled salmon, and Cajun-style seafood boil. Meat lovers can indulge in baby back ribs, beef kalbi, hamburger steak, and BBQ lamb, while chicken enthusiasts will appreciate options ranging from classic katsu and teriyaki BBQ chicken to Mediterranean-style and pasta dishes.

The café's picturesque setting features picket fencing and fairy lights that create an intimate corridor, cleverly partitioned from the main shopping centre. This tastefully decorated, modern space provides the perfect backdrop for people watching while enjoying your meal.

Conveniently located on the Pago Pago Harbor's edge and boasting something for everyone, DDW Beach Cafe should certainly make it to your lunch itinerary at least once.

Despite its name, this harbourside cafe isn't exactly on the "beachfront" but offers both indoor seating where locals gather under the A/C and shaded outdoor tables in the tropical warmth.

The extensive breakfast menu ranges from classic eggs and toast to island specialties like loco moco with homemade beef patties, wahoo moco, and Samoan panikeke pancakes. Standout dishes include the hearty "Breakfast Scrambler" loaded with eggs, roasted potatoes, bacon, ham, Portuguese sausage and vegetables, plus elaborate options like smoked salmon bagels and Pago Pago fish and chips.

House-made cakes satisfy sweet cravings, while the beverage selection spans fresh coconut (niu) when they have them, smoothies, juices and refillable drinks. Beer and wine are available with mimosas by the bottle.

You have to get in early, though; opening hours are 7 am to 3 pm, Monday to Friday (although they'll sometimes pack up at 2 pm if it's slow), and 7 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

Nestled around the back of Tafuna's Sports Bar, Oasis Restaurant is hidden gem offering Asian sharing plates that will keep you coming back for more.

The restaurant serves an impressive fusion of Korean, Hawaiian and American-style dishes that cater to every palate. The extensive menu features everything from classic comfort foods like chicken wings, nachos and fish-n-chips to authentic Korean specialities including beef bulgogi, kimchi pot stew and bibimbap.

Hawaiian favourites like loco moco and saimin noodle soups sit alongside hearty American steaks and fresh seafood options. The restaurant's strength lies in its variety – whether you're craving crispy chicken katsu, spicy Korean kalbi or a simple cheeseburger, you'll find it here.

Open daily except Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm, this mid-range establishment offers generous portions and combination platters perfect for sharing.

There are many reasons to venture out east, but Dr Vaasa's Hideaway is unmissable for any road trip out this way.

Opening at 6 am daily (much earlier than most restaurants), this easternmost eatery serves up local favourites alongside hearty comfort dishes, with their famous cinnamon buns and popular pani popo buns (sweet coconut milk buns) drawing visitors from across the island, especially for Sunday pastries.

The menu features everything from fish and chips to loco moco, katsu chicken and cheeseburgers, all priced very reasonably compared to Pago Pago's cafes. What sets this place apart is the complimentary swimming area behind the restaurant, which is a perfect way to cool off after your meal and is particularly popular on weekends.

The relaxed, island-style atmosphere includes deck seating and occasional live music from local musicians, making it an ideal rest stop for east side explorers.

Vila's Snack Bar is a delightfully fresh addition to the local dining scene, with a cute dine-in area of window-side booths and long tables for larger tribes.

This isn't your typical grab-and-go spot. Everything is made fresh each morning, from their homemade cookies to their carefully prepared sauces, with a firm commitment to avoiding processed ingredients.

The menu is a delicious journey across multiple cuisines, featuring Hawaiian favourites like musubi and customisable mixed plates with roast pork, teriyaki chicken and wahoo. Mexican specialities shine here, particularly their signature birria tacos: slow-cooked tender beef or chicken marinated in rich spices, shredded and stuffed in corn tortillas, then fried to crispy perfection with a savoury dipping broth. American classics like smash burgers and the intriguingly named "Tummy Burger" round out the diverse offerings.

Find this delightful diner open Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 4 pm.

Although there are quite a few pizza places in American Samoa, and everyone has their favourite, Manu's Pizza tops our list for the authentic European style mixed with island flavours.

This local family-owned establishment serves authentic pizzas with all the usual suspects for toppings, plus the flexibility to go half-and-half if you can't decide. Don't worry, the pizzas are big enough!

The friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere in the cute dine-in seating area, where TV music videos entertain the locals. From medium combo pizzas to calzones, the menu caters to various appetites and preferences. If you need recommendations, the Manu Combo is the speciality pizza!

International visitors will particularly appreciate the European-style approach to pizza-making, which we found to be a refreshing change from typical island fare.

Good Vibes Bar & Grill has earned a stellar reputation among both locals and cruise ship visitors for its exceptional sizzling dishes and what many consider the island's best iced tea.

The restaurant's multicultural menu spans Asian cuisine, premium steaks, and local favourites, with their signature beef kalbi (grilled steak) consistently ranking as the most popular dish.

The extensive menu caters to all budgets, from affordable vegetable spring rolls to premium US cuts like T-bone steak. Their specialty sizzling dishes include black pepper beef and grilled diced steak with garlic rice, while the "GoodVibes Extra Specials" feature stuffed salmon and tomahawk ribs.

The casual, welcoming atmosphere successfully mixes different culinary traditions, offering everything from Filipino-inspired pancit canton to Niuean-style seafood coconut cream soup called "Topipa Panagongo".

The venue is airy and roomy with partitions down the middle, making it a comfortable dine-in option from 10 am to 2 pm for lunch, and 5 pm until 9:30 pm for dinner, Monday through Saturday.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to relax at lunch or making the most of the fact that it's open on Sunday, A&E Cafe is one of the most endearing cafes in Tafuna.

Open Tuesday through Sunday from early morning until mid-afternoon, this popular spot excels at hearty breakfasts featuring standout dishes like beef loco moco (their most popular Hawaiian dish), panikeke Samoa, and a variety of omelettes alongside classic pancakes, waffles and French toast.

The extensive menu caters to all appetites with lighter options like fruit bowls and banana or papaya porridge for breakfast, while lunch brings everything from soups and salads to burgers, pasta and fresh seafood plates. Island specialities shine with lamb neck soup, curry, stir fry, and Sunday-only treats like kalua pork bowl and to'oanai special, complemented by grilled swordfish and shrimp cocktail.

Experience authentic Samoan culture at Tisa's Barefoot Bar with their legendary Wednesday umu night, a tradition that's been delighting visitors for over 25 years.

Watch as CandyMann dramatically unveils the earth oven by removing the encompassing banana leaves at 7 pm sharp, revealing perfectly cooked traditional food whilst Tisa shares fascinating insights about this ancient cooking method.

The spectacle takes about 15 minutes to unfold, creating both a dining experience and educational opportunity that immerses you in authentic Samoan culinary traditions. Guests dine at traditional tables in a communal setting on the elevated deck overlooking Alega Beach, which captures the true essence of Samoan hospitality, with piña coladas and fruit punch served throughout the evening.

For those who can't make the Wednesday schedule, Tisa offers flexible alternatives to ensure no visitor misses out on experiencing genuine local cuisine during their stay, whether you're a cruise ship passenger or wanting a place to stay inside their eco-fales.

If you're looking for that "treat yourself" dining experience in Pago Pago, Sadie Thompson Inn is the place.

Housed within a registered historical landmark, the restaurant offers the closest thing to fine dining in American Samoa, blending steakhouse classics with Samoan flavours. The restaurant specialises in premium imported meats and quality ingredients, with the standout dish being the traditional oka – a coconut-based raw fish specialty that's beloved by both staff and regulars.

The extensive menu features island-influenced "appetisers" (think Samoan portions) like oka and poke alongside international favourites, hearty soups and fresh salads. Mains range from pasta dishes and seafood plates to an impressive selection of prime steaks including ribeye, T-bone, filet mignon and even tomahawk cuts, all served with classic sides and on plates that only just fit on the table.

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday, the bar opens earlier at 4 pm, serving fruity tropical drinks and classic cocktails where you can enjoy a game of pool.

On the northern shores of the Pago Pago Harbor, Paradise Pizza offers a charming retreat close to town.

Open from 8 am to either 9 or 10 pm Monday through Saturday, this local favourite excels beyond pizza with hearty breakfast options like the "Big Breakfast" featuring eggs, bacon, Portuguese sausage, potatoes, toast, baked beans and fresh fruit.

The extensive menu spans everything from gourmet pizzas with signature white sauce to substantial mains like fish and chips, grilled wahoo, hamburger steak and seafood pasta loaded with shrimp, mussels and fish. Burgers and sandwiches come with fries, whilst speciality dishes are served with local vegetables and your choice of rice, taro or potatoes.

What sets this place apart is its heartwarming backstory—the restaurant honours the memory of Pafuti Makelika Vaivao, whose favourite meal was pepperoni pizza and orange Fanta, creating the warm, welcoming atmosphere she loved.

This place was pumping when we popped in on a Sunday, which coincides with Alora's Restaurant's pumping reputation.

The extensive menu spans everything from classic breakfast favourites like eggs benedict, chicken and waffles, and fluffy pancakes to satisfying lunch and dinner options including Philly steak burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and chicken alfredo.

What sets this spot apart is its commitment to generous portions and quality ingredients, with most mains accompanied by classic sides like chips or onion rings. The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences with vegetarian and vegan options available alongside their signature comfort dishes.

Operating Monday to Saturday from 7 am for breakfast through to 10 pm for dinner (kitchen closes at 9 pm), and their very popular Sunday brunch from 9:30 am to 2 pm, it's perfectly positioned for any meal of the day.

Not many people choose to scout the roads of Pava'ia'i for something to eat, but those who do will find an awesome dining venue and bar behind an unassuming orange facade: meet the Flying Fox Gastropub.

Inside are neon lights and a real nightly vibe with drinks and laughs becoming more of a party place later into the evening, while outside is a tranquil beer garden with plenty of seating among the natural tropical trees and options to sit under the fale.

The menu showcases everything from loaded fries topped with kalua pork or carne asada steak to Hawaiian poke served as bowls, nachos or classic style. Burgers are the real highlight here, with the "Tobi Kitsune" standing out as a must-try alongside creative options like the "Smokey Fox" with bourbon mesquite BBQ sauce and bacon, or the indulgent "Notorious BIG Burger" featuring two large patties.

And be warned, their portions are, indeed, BIG, so don't be shy to order at least one to two meals for a table of four. Signature cocktails like the "Sneaky piniki" (Sneaky Pink) complement the social atmosphere perfectly, making this a popular local weekend destination.

You would never know this place was here, hidden beneath the Historical Preservation Office. But the locals certainly know it's here and will not wait long to tell you about the Korean fusion cuisine of Manaia Restaurant!

This Korean restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with private partitions, creating cosy spaces perfect for groups seeking both privacy and authentic flavours.

The diverse menu masterfully blends traditional Korean dishes with local and pan-Asian influences, featuring everything from fresh ahi tuna sashimi and spicy tuna salads to Korean staples like bulgogi bibimbap and kalbi. Appetisers include crispy wontons and egg rolls, while soup lovers can choose from wonton, chicken corn, seaweed tofu, and Korean soybean paste stew.

The casual, approachable atmosphere makes it equally welcoming for solo diners and large groups, with sharing dishes like sizzling seafood, kung pao chicken, and egg fu yong encouraging communal dining. The beverage selection spans from traditional teas to soju and sake, completing the experience.

Manuia is open from 11 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday, but closes for lunch on Wednesday.

If you're craving authentic Vietnamese flavours, you'll want to head straight to TJD Vietnamese Restaurant.

What makes this place truly special is that you won't find these Vietnamese dishes anywhere else on the island. We're big fans of restaurants that offer something completely unique, and this one delivers authentic flavours that'll have you coming back for more.

The menu is seriously impressive. You'll find 20 different beef pho combinations ranging from simple rare beef steak to more adventurous options with brisket, tendon, tripe and beef balls (perfect if you're feeling brave!). The fresh summer rolls come in four varieties—vegetarian, shrimp, pork and combination—whilst the seafood selection really shines with stuffed fried fish, baby octopus stir-fried with vegetables and grilled oysters served with both cheese and Vietnamese onion sauce.

Here's something we discovered during our last visit: TJD Vietnamese isn't just about the food. They've got three conference rooms that can handle groups from six to 45 people, complete with television facilities and even karaoke if you fancy a sing-along.

If you're looking for a charming place to dine in for breakfast, not to mention something healthy, you have to try Cafe Felila.

This stylish café serves everything from classic espresso-based coffees and refreshing smoothies to inventive breakfast dishes like bagels with smoked salmon, tropical chia oatmeal, and oat-banana pancakes drizzled with local syrup.

The globally inspired menu features hearty sandwiches, wraps, and creative bowls including Mediterranean hummus crunch, Korean-style bibimbap, and fresh sushi bowls. The café's signature laupele rolls, made with local spinach, are particularly beloved by locals.

With comfortable seating options ranging from cosy couches to traditional tables, plus high chairs for little ones, the atmosphere is both welcoming and sophisticated.

Again, Chinese food isn't too difficult to find in American Samoa, but Manaia Restaurant is the one recommended to us by locals time and time again, so we made sure to check it out.

The restaurant serves everything from fresh sashimi and cold appetisers to hearty seafood dishes like steamed fish, pepper salt fish, and fried long fish.

Diners can choose from an impressive array of pork, beef, chicken, and duck preparations, ranging from classic stir-fries and sweet and sour dishes to specialities like Hong Kong duck and mapo tofu. Vegetarian options abound with various tofu and vegetable dishes, complemented by soups and rice or noodle plates.

Open daily from morning until late evening, the restaurant maintains a casual atmosphere that suits both locals and visitors. The drinks menu features soft drinks, juices, iced tea, beer, wine and mixed cocktails to complement your meal.

Ruby Red Café offers a delightful blend of local Samoan flavours and international favourites in the heart of Pago Pago.

This welcoming Filipino café serves everything from hearty breakfast wraps and power bowls to refreshing smoothies featuring tropical combinations like "Mango Sunrise" and "Samoan Greens".

The menu caters to health-conscious diners with options like chia parfait and oatmeal bowls, while also satisfying heartier appetites with speciality sandwiches and wraps. Local influences shine through their beverage selection, including "Hibiscus Cooler", "Samoan Limeade", and "Lemongrass Mint" alongside a full coffee programme.

Open from 6:30 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday and until 2 pm on Saturday, the café perfectly captures both the breakfast rush and lunch crowds. The atmosphere is friendly, while the biggest letdown is that everything is served in plastic, even if you're eating in.

Finally, ChEAT Day has carved out a sweet spot as Samoa's premier dessert destination, blending American-style baked goods with distinctive local flavours.

The star of the show is undoubtedly their famous Koko Samoa brownies, a signature creation that draws customers from across the island specifically to experience this unique local twist on a classic treat.

Beyond the brownies, you'll find an impressive selection of freshly baked cookies, including chocolate chip, Oreo stuffed, snickerdoodle and peanut butter varieties, alongside blondies, s'mores bars and butter mochi that showcase both American and Samoan influences. Their ice cream offerings are equally tempting, from simple single scoops to elaborate sundaes and trifles, with the option to customise your dessert by adding cookies or bars to any ice cream order.

The creative beverage programme features their signature "Moana mix" – Sprite blended with blue raspberry – alongside other mixed sodas, milkshakes, frappes and iced coffee. Special Koko Samoa flavoured cakes and cupcakes are available by order for those seeking something extra special.

Make your "Cheat day" from 10 am to 7 pm Monday to Thursday, and 10 am to 8 pm Friday and Saturday.