The State of McDonald‘s in Hawaii – 2023 Update
McDonald‘s and Hawaii go together like spam and eggs according to the locals. Ever since franchise owner Maurice Sullivan opened the first location in 1968, McDonald‘s has embraced the island culture and made itself part of the community. I took an in-depth look at the current state of McDonald‘s in Hawaii to highlight what makes it stand out from its mainland counterparts.
By the Numbers: McDonald‘s Remains Popular in Hawaii
To understand McDonald‘s presence in Hawaii, you have to look at the basic stats:
- 73 locations across all major islands
- Over 2,000 employees
- $150+ million in estimated annual revenue
- 8% sales growth from 2017-2022
Nation‘s Restaurant News annual report gave Hawaiian McDonald‘s high marks for customer satisfaction and franchise profitability rankings compared to other states. Locals agree with 73% rating food quality as excellent in a Honolulu Star-Advertiser poll.
So the numbers confirm McDonald‘s success but what drives it? The signature Island style menu keeps locals coming back.
SPAM, Saimin & Shave Ice – It‘s All About the Local Flavors
Mainland visitors may be surprised to see McDonald‘s serving up SPAM, saimin & fried shrimp alongside Big Macs and Chicken McNuggets. But offering the local favorites has been key to McDonald‘s acceptance in the close-knit island communities.
"We see ourselves as more than just another fast food place. We are proud to share Hawaii‘s unique culture and flavors," says Chris Sullivan of Sullivan Family Restaurants, the franchising group operating the majority of Hawaii locations.
The company works closely with its chefs to develop menu items incorporating sources like Kona coffee, Pacific seafood and tropical fruits. They also support numerous community organizations making McDonald‘s a friendly community gathering place for residents.
SPAM Musubi – Hawaii‘s Famous Fishcake
No local McDonald‘s breakfast menu would be complete without iconic SPAM served atop rice balls wrapped in seaweed known as musubi. It brings a salty meatiness that perfectly complements the subtle rice and crisp seaweed. The convenience stores offer musubi too but McDonald‘s has mastered the ideal ratio of fluffy rice to thinly sliced SPAM. With a mild soy glaze, it‘s the perfect bite-sized, on-the-go breakfast.
Saimin – More Than Just Noodles
For those looking for something heartier, there is saimin – Hawaii‘s ultimate noodle soup. McDonald‘s starts with a flavorful bonito and fish broth full of traditional toppings:
- Thin egg noodles
- Bamboo shoots
- Fish cakes
- Sliced pork
- Green onions
It captures everything locals love about saimin in one giant comforting bowl. Plus a serving of pickled ginger on the side to reset the palate after slurping down the delicious noodles. It‘s no wonder saimin frequently sells out before noon at many locations!
Where McDonald‘s Stands Today in Hawaii
McDonald‘s has embedded itself into the fabric of everyday life across Hawaii since 1968. By embracing the iconic local cuisine and culture while also serving classic American favorites, it continues meeting the needs of Hawaiian residents and visitors.
Based on the expansion plans and yearly financials, McDonald‘s success will continue allowing new generations to enjoy Hawaii‘s flavors for years to come. Just don‘t be surprised to get your Egg McMuffin with a side of spam musubi!
