The Food Guide to American Samoa: Places to Eat & Food Tours

What are the best islands for food in American Samoa? Well, that totally depends on what style of dining experience you're seeking in this remote Pacific territory.

Tutuila and the capital Pago Pago represent your best bet for diverse dining options with their unique American-meets-Polynesian food culture. Not only can you find everything from Korean-Hawaiian fusion at Oasis to upscale American steakhouse dining at Sadie Thompson Inn, but authentic Samoan cuisine thrives through fresh seafood markets like Fagatogo Fish Market and cultural food demonstrations offered by tour operators like Tisa's Barefoot Bar.

For truly authentic food experiences and traditional cooking methods, the remote Manu'a Islands (Ta'ū, Ofu and Olosega) offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience genuine Polynesian food culture. While restaurant options are virtually non-existent, accommodations like Va'oto Lodge and Fitiuta Lodge arrange traditional umu earth-oven cooking demonstrations with village experts, featuring specialties like coconut crab and fresh-caught seafood that showcase centuries-old preparation methods.

The outer islands also provide the most immersive self-catering experiences, where shopping at family-run convenience stores and cooking in communal kitchens becomes part of understanding how island communities actually live and eat. These islands offer cultural food experiences that simply can't be replicated in more developed destinations.

Aunu'u Island, while smaller and less developed, provides a glimpse into subsistence island living where traditional food gathering and preparation methods remain essential to daily life.

Discover more about the best islands for food in American Samoa in our complete foodie guides covering each unique dining landscape across this fascinating US territory:

• The Food Guide to Pago Pago & Tutuila: Places to Eat & Food Tours
• The Food Guide to the Manu'a Islands: Places to Eat & Food Tours

Make food a central part of your American Samoa adventure. While you won't find formal food tours like in larger destinations, American Samoa offers something far more genuine: traditional umu demonstrations, vibrant local markets and community-centred dining that beautifully reflects the territory's deep Polynesian roots.

Umu Demonstrations

The ancient Polynesian art of slow-cooking fresh fish, tropical root vegetables and dishes like palusami with hot rocks remains at the heart of American Samoan culture. From what we've experienced, there are several fantastic ways to witness this time-honoured cooking technique.

Tisa's Barefoot Bar (Alega Beach) hosts the most established umu experience on the island. Every Wednesday evening, they present traditional Samoan umu feasts in their stunning beachfront setting—a tradition that's been going strong for over 25 years.

What we love about their approach is how they combine authentic earth-oven cooking with sustainable ecotourism. You'll witness the entire process from preparation to the final feast, something we've found absolutely captivating.

Best Tours' shore excursions cater brilliantly to cruise ship passengers, weaving umu demonstrations into their cultural tours. You'll watch traditional food preparation alongside other cultural activities like weaving and 'ava ceremonies, and naturally, you get to sample everything with local refreshments.

Meanwhile in the Manu'a Islands, Fitiuta Lodge (Ta'ū) prepares an umu every Sunday, which comes included with their highest-tier rooms (though you can request it separately). This is where you'll get to try island staples like taro, fresh fish, breadfruit when it's in season and fai'ai, octopus or fish cooked in coconut shells that's simply delicious.

Fagatogo Market

We can't get enough of Fagatogo Market—it's where you'll experience the genuine heart of local food culture. The day begins before dawn, with vendors setting up their stalls by 5:30 am (early birds definitely catch the best selection here!).

This intimate marketplace delights with its authentic mix of handmade crafts (admittedly from Independent Samoa, China and Hawaii) alongside the freshest local fruit and vegetables. The atmosphere is refreshingly low-key and genuinely local—you won't find any commercial tourist trap vibes here.

Pancake and coffee shops within the market open around 7 am, making for a tempting breakfast option during your early morning visit. Don't miss the Fish Market around the back: their poke nachos have quite the local following!

Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway Tour

According to our very own travel manager, Robin, Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway ranks among the best tour operators for foodie experiences. Their signature "Aunu'u Island Tour" is absolutely worth considering if you want to explore the island's plantations whilst trying authentic Samoan dishes along the way.

This comprehensive walking tour begins with transfers to 'Au'asi Harbor, where you'll take the traditional alia boat over to Aunu'u. The tour takes you through the island's renowned taro plantations, where you'll discover why Aunu'u produces the finest taro in the islands—the history behind this superior variety is absolutely fascinating.

The experience showcases the island's distinctive geological features, including a rare quicksand area and the dramatic Sina and Tigilau cliffs positioned beside a crater with breathtaking views. Your guide also demonstrates the island's rainwater catchment systems and functioning water wells—one of only two locations in American Samoa where you can still draw water using traditional bucket methods.

Traditional cooking demonstrations and cultural activities provide deeper insights into Samoan heritage, with Pika's personal connections ensuring an authentic local perspective throughout your visit.

The taro plantation visit and traditional cooking demonstrations offer fascinating insights into indigenous ingredients and time-honoured Samoan culinary techniques that you simply won't find elsewhere.

North Shore Tours

We've found North Shore Tours to be another amazing sightseeing operator for foodie experiences, thanks to their access to a tropical nursery and Rory's flexibility in tailoring tours to food-related interests.

Operator Rory crafts each experience like a smorgasbord, allowing you to pick what genuinely interests you rather than following rigid itineraries—something we personally love about his approach.

The diverse tour offerings centre around off-the-beaten-track experiences. Traditional cultural experiences include hands-on fishing lessons using bamboo poles and natural bait in spots where locals don't typically fish, whilst historical tours leverage Rory's extensive knowledge of American Samoa's colonial period from 1900-1929.

Hiking experiences range from accessible walks to challenging Mt Matafao ascents, with beach and swimming tours visiting pristine locations like Sa'ilele on the "north shore". Tours average five hours but can be shortened for cruise passengers, and they're very reasonably priced with a minimum of two people.

For the food element woven into your tour, ask to visit Rory's nursery—you'll get to touch and taste a myriad of tropical fruit, which we've found absolutely delightful.

More Food Experiences in American Samoa

The food scene in American Samoa offers additional authentic experiences, including:

• Experience Sustenance Fishing with Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway
• ... Or Take Fishing to the Next Level with Pago Pago Marine Charters
• Experience Destination Dining at Dr Vaasa's Hideaway
• Buy a Loaf From American Samoa's Oldest Business
• Experience Palolo Rising
• Explore the plantations of Ofu or Olosega Taufusi
• Treat the Tastebuds at One of Tutuila's Cafes or Restaurants

… For elaboration on each activity, check out the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in American Samoa.

Admittedly, American Samoa has a pretty limited choice when it comes to dining options compared to larger Pacific destinations, but Pago Pago more than makes up for it with an authentic array of restaurants, family-run eateries, fresh seafood markets and cultural food experiences that reflect the territory's unique blend of Polynesian and American influences.

If you just sit down anywhere, chances are you'll be at a family-run establishment serving hearty portions of local favourites like "fish-and-chips" or loco moco. To experience the full spectrum of American Samoa's diverse culinary scene, here are more details about the best places to eat in American Samoa in categories of the best restaurants, best weekend dining, best breakfast spots and more.

The Best Restaurants in American Samoa

Check out some of our top picks for the best restaurants in American Samoa below, covering everything from Korean fusion to traditional Pacific cuisine.

Sadie's by the Sea - Goat Island Cafe (Utulei, Tutuila)

Easily one of the most comprehensive dining experiences in American Samoa, Goat Island Cafe at Sadie's by the Sea brings together American comfort food with Pacific influences. Their extensive menu spans from breakfast classics like "Big Breakfast" and seafood omelettes to dinner favourites including ribeye steak and fresh local specialities like "Sadie's Oka" and "Sadie's Poke". Don't miss their Friday night live bands (5:30-9 pm) and happy hour (4-6 pm).

The beachfront setting with conference facilities for up to 80 people makes this a popular choice for both casual dining and special events.

Oasis Restaurant (Tafuna, Tutuila)

Oasis Restaurant, open all day Monday to Saturday, stands out as American Samoa's premier Korean-Hawaiian fusion destination. Their authentic Korean specialities include kalbi, bibimbap and fresh sashimi platters. The restaurant also serves excellent Korean pot stews, kimchi fried rice and traditional dishes like beef bulgogi alongside American favourites.

This is where locals and visitors come when they want something completely different from typical American fare, making it a must-visit for adventurous eaters.

Good Vibes Bar & Grill (Tafuna, Tutuila)

Known for serving the territory's best iced tea - properly brewed, not too sweet - Good Vibes, open for lunch and dinner, Monday to Saturday, specialises in sizzling plates and Asian cuisine. Their beef kalbi and grilled steaks are particular local favourites, while their sizzling black pepper beef and seafood "GoodVibes" package showcase their signature cooking style.

Popular with cruise ship passengers and locals alike, Good Vibes offers both familiar dishes and Asian specialities in a welcoming atmosphere.

Vila's Snack Bar (Tafuna, Tutuila)

One of the newer dining establishments, Vila's Snack Bar, open for breakfast and lunch, Monday to Saturday, has gained popularity for its Mexican-Hawaiian fusion approach and commitment to fresh, homemade ingredients. Their birria tacos and mixed plates featuring teriyaki chicken, roast pork and wahoo keep prices affordable while supporting local suppliers.

The variety allows customers to choose from burgers, Mexican food, Hawaiian favourites like musubi or traditional plates depending on their mood.

Manu's Pizza (Nu'uuli, Tutuila)

For straightforward pizza and Italian-American fare, Manu's Pizza, open all day Monday to Saturday, offers reliable dining with their combo pizzas and calzones. They boast the most authentic European-style pizzas on the island, providing consistent quality for those seeking familiar flavours.

The Best Weekend Dining in American Samoa

Flying Fox Gastropub (Pava'ia'i, Tutuila)

Flying Fox Gastropub, open Thursday to Saturday evenings, brings American Samoa's most creative weekend dining experience with their unique ordering system and gourmet burger focus. Their signature "Tobi Kitsune" burger with unagi-glazed patty and shiitake mushrooms is a must-try, while their "Sneaky Pilkyl" cocktail has become legendary among locals.

The gastropub's innovative approach includes everything from Hawaiian poke bowls to kalua pork loaded fries, making "weekends for Flying Fox" a local mantra.

Koko Bean Cafe (Nu'uuli, Tutuila)

For the most sophisticated dining experience, Koko Bean Cafe offers American Samoa's only smoking programme with specialities like smoked ribeye steak and coconut smoked swai. Their fresh poke preparations and creative sushi rolls showcase the territory's excellent seafood in elevated presentations.

This upscale establishment brings fine dining techniques to local ingredients, creating a truly unique Pacific dining experience.

Dr. Vaasa's Hideaway (Utumea East, Tutuila)

As the easternmost restaurant and the only dining option on the far east side, Dr. Vaasa's Hideaway (open early morning daily, and afternoons on Sundays) serves the territory's best pani popo (coconut milk buns) and amazing cinnamon rolls. Their all-day menu includes island favourites like loco moco and fresh fish preparations, while guests can swim in the back of the restaurant at no extra charge.

Perfect as a rest stop while exploring the dramatic eastern coastline, this family-run establishment represents authentic island hospitality.

The Best Breakfast & Cafe Options in American Samoa

A&E Cafe (Tutuila)

A&E Cafe, open Tuesday to Sunday, specialises in hearty breakfast and lunch fare with their beef loco moco being the most popular dish. Their extensive breakfast menu includes everything from traditional panikeke Samoa to substantial breakfast combos, while lunch features fresh fish, steaks and local specialities.

DDW Beach Cafe (Tutuila)

Known as Sadie's rival, DDW Beach Cafe, open for breakfast and early lunch Monday to Saturday, distinguishes itself by making its own cakes and offering substantial breakfast and lunch menus. Their signature "Sione's Burger" is a must-try, while their extensive breakfast offerings include everything from Samoan panikeke to ribeye steak and eggs.

The beachfront location and homemade desserts create direct competition with the Sadie's empire, giving visitors authentic choice in American Samoa's dining scene.

For a closer look at all these restaurants and more, check out the 20 Best Restaurants in American Samoa.

Contemporary meals enjoyed and found in American Samoa mostly reflect Asian and American cuisine with deep-fried food, chop suey, tacos, pizzas and burgers being national favourites. When it comes to the roots of American Samoan cooking, however, the traditional meals and ingredients have gone mostly unchanged for centuries and American Samoa certainly has its fair share of dishes to try.

Traditional Meals of American Samoa

One of the easiest dishes to find is oka, raw fish marinated in coconut cream with a few other spices or chillies for extra flavour. You'll find oka available as an entrée at quite a few restaurants across American Samoa, hopefully, presented in a coconut shell for a truly authentic island look!

An iconic American Samoan food, palusami is taro leaves cooked in coconut cream to make a rich and creamy dish. It's traditionally cooked in a hot-rock oven called an umu.

Fai'ai elegi is fish cooked with coconut cream and a few other flavours like onions to enhance the dish. It's typically served in the shell of the coconut that has been grated for the meal. Scooping out the creamy fish with a piece of talo is the way to go!

There's a lot more where that came from, so head to our guide, Traditional American Samoan Food: 20 Foods to Try in American Samoa for more meals.

Where to Try Traditional Food in American Samoa

The best place to try traditional American Samoan food is during an umu, with Tisa's Barefoot Bar taking centre stage as the most reliable umu night in American Samoa – see the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in American Samoa. If you're lucky enough to be invited to a Sunday to'onai, you may also get to try these traditional foods – see 10 Things to Do in American Samoa on a Sunday LINK#TTD028.

We also list some restaurants where you can try some of American Samoa's iconic dishes in the 20 Foods to Try in American Samoa.

American Samoan Drinks

Like in many of the Polynesian islands of the South Pacific, 'ava or kava is a popular drink used for ceremonial purposes. 'Ava is made from the root of a pepper plant that has been ground up and mixed with water. It has narcotic/sedative properties, but the quantity usually consumed by tourists won't have much effect.

The American Samoan version of fresh lemonade, vai tipolo is made with lemons (moli), water and sugar as the base, while some establishments might have "secret recipes" to add an extra zing to their beverage.

What we love about the American influence in American Samoa is the free drink refills of coffee and iced tea! Iced tea is on the menu almost everywhere in Tutuila, where the best brews we've tried have been at Good Vibes and Paradise Pizza.

Deriving from across the pond in Independent Samoa, Vailima is a popular drink also found in American Samoa! Of course, Budweiser and Bud Light are also abundant in this American territory,

So, what about if you want to cater for yourself? Perhaps you have food allergies that you’d like to keep in check (if it’s a gluten allergy, then check out The Gluten-Free Guide to American Samoa). Or maybe you just want to save some money. Whatever the reason, self-catering is totally viable across all of the islands in American Samoa.

Self-catering across American Samoa offers excellent options, with Tutuila providing a wealth of supermarkets and Manu'a Islands offering convenient village stores to meet your needs.

On Tutuila, you'll find popular supermarkets like KS Mart and Cost U Less in Tafuna. There are roadside stalls in Pava'ia'i and at the Fagatogo Market to pick up fresh local fruit and veg. Otherwise, you're never too far from a convenience store stocking the essentials. Cost U Less has a surprising variety of food from the US, New Zealand and Australia, while convenience stores in Tutuila are mostly Chinese-owned and well-stocked with American snacks, dry food and toiletries.

Convenience stores in Ofu, Olosega and Ta'ū are typically small, family-run establishments that serve as essential community lifelines. These modest shops stock basic necessities including canned goods, pasta, milk, sodas, snacks and household items, though selection varies significantly based on recent supply shipments and local demand.

Operating hours are generally flexible, with most stores opening between 6:30-8 am and closing around 7-10 pm on weekdays. Sunday hours are often limited, reflecting the islands' strong Christian culture. Store owners frequently memorise prices rather than relying on electronic systems, and many items may not be individually price-tagged.

Learn more about shopping experiences in American Samoa in A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in American Samoa LINK#TT011.