The Best Places to Eat in Pago

You're on vacation, so why not treat yourself to some incredible local flavours?

Here's what we love about dining on Tutuila LINK#D006 and in Pago Pago: there's no pretentious tourist food here. Instead, you'll discover authentic local favourites that reflect the island's unique cultural blend: hearty Chinese and Korean comfort dishes, classic American staples, and delicious South Pacific influences all rolled into one delightful culinary experience.

From what we've experienced, this authentic approach means you'll taste exactly what locals love, which makes every meal feel like a genuine cultural discovery.

Let's jump into the dining hotspots, from the heart of the harbour to the hidden gems out east, in this guide to the best restaurants in Pago Pago and Tutuila.

1.Goat Island Cafe at Sadie's By The Sea

Sadies Goat Island Cafe Food Restaurant CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

See how this iconic dining destination compares to the 20 Best Restaurants in American Samoa LINK#TTD050.

Location:

Route 001, Utulei, Pago Pago, Tutuila.

Price Range:$$

2.DDW Beach Cafe

DDW Beach Cafe Food Panikeke Local CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 001, Utulei, Pago Pago, Tutuila. Opposite the Territorial Bank and adjacent to Utulei Park.

Price Range:$$

3.Oasis

Oasis Restaurant Food CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 014, Tafuna, west side of Tutuila. On the western side of the main road, behind the Sports Bar. Across the road from Tropical Pizza and Tropical Chicken.

Price Range:$$

4.A&E Cafe

A&E Cafe Robin Dining CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 014, Tafuna, west side of Tutuila. Located across the car park from Cost U Less.

Price Range:$$

5.Dr Vaasa's Hideaway

Dr Vaasa's Hideaway Restaurant CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 008, Utumea East, east side of Tutuila. Along the main road approximately 710 yards (650 m) east of 'Auasi Harbor.

Price Range:$

6.Vila's Snack Bar

Vila's Snack Bar Food Restaurant 1 CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Because of their reasonable prices, you'll also find Vila's among friends in The Top Cheap Eats in American Samoa LINK#TTD048.

Location:

Route 016, Tafuna, west side of Tutuila. Next to the Pala Lagoon Swim Center.

Price Range:$

7.Sadie Thompson Inn

Sadie Thompson Inn Restaurant Fine Dining Food CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

For more upmarket experiences, check out the 10 Most Luxurious Experiences in American Samoa LINK#TTD069.

Location:

Route 001, Pago Pago, Tutuila. Along the main road, approximately 200 yards/metres west of the Fagatogo Market.

Price Range:$$$

8.Paradise Pizza

Paradise Pizza Food Pasta CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 001, Pago Pago, Tutuila. Between Pago Pago and Satala villages, on the north coast of the Pago Pago Harbor.

Price Range:$

9.Flying Fox Gastropub

Flying Fox Gastropub Drink Nightlife Cocktail CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Route 001, Pava'ia'i, west side of Tutuila. Orange building on the north side of the main road, opposite the Latter-Day Saints Church.

Price Range:$$

10.Manuia Restaurant

Manuia Restaurant Korean Food 1 CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

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.

Location:

Fagaima, Tafuna, west side of Tutuila. Take the western exit at the northernmost roundabout of Route 014. The restaurant is below the Historic Preservation Office.

Price Range:$

More About Places to Eat and Restaurants in Pago Pago and Tutuila

That’s it for our list of the best restaurants in Pago Pago and Tutuila. Plan more treats for your palate with the following articles:

  • The Top Cheap Eats in American Samoa LINK#TTD048
  • 10 Best Foodie Experiences in American Samoa LINK#TTD042
  • The Food Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila: Places to Eat & Food Tours LINK#D003

Finally, don’t miss our foodie must-dos in The Food Guide to American Samoa: Places to Eat & Food Tours LINK#TTD040.