Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine Comes to Michigan at Aloha Cookin'

This unassuming restaurant in Troy brings the flavors of the Pacific to the Detroit suburbs.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a stack of Spam Musubi repeated in a tight grid pattern, utilizing flat, vibrant neon colors and heavy black photographic outlines to transform the everyday Hawaiian snack into modern pop art.Aloha Cookin's vibrant menu of Hawaiian classics brings a taste of the islands to an unexpected suburban setting, proving that great food can thrive anywhere.Troy Today

Aloha Cookin' in Troy, Michigan offers an authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine, serving up classic plate lunches, island-inspired entrees, and tropical treats in a casual, welcoming setting. Despite its strip mall location, the restaurant is committed to delivering the real deal when it comes to Hawaiian flavors, with no attempt to cater to tourist expectations.

Why it matters

In a region known more for its hearty Midwestern fare, Aloha Cookin' stands out as a unique culinary destination that celebrates the diverse, multicultural influences that make Hawaiian cuisine so vibrant. The restaurant's dedication to authenticity provides Michigan residents with a legitimate escape to the islands, right in their own backyard.

The details

The menu at Aloha Cookin' features a wide range of Hawaiian classics, from the signature Huli Huli Chicken and Loco Moco to Kalbi Short Ribs and Spam Musubi. The kitchen pays careful attention to traditional preparation methods, ensuring each dish delivers bold, unapologetic flavors. The casual, no-frills atmosphere allows the food to take center stage, with simple decor that evokes the islands without feeling like a themed restaurant.

  • Aloha Cookin' opened in Troy, Michigan in the summer of 2021.
  • The restaurant is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year.

The players

Aloha Cookin'

A restaurant in Troy, Michigan that specializes in authentic Hawaiian cuisine, offering classic plate lunches, island-inspired entrees, and tropical treats in a casual, welcoming setting.

Gordon Edgar

A longtime employee at Aloha Cookin' who oversees the restaurant's cheese counter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

Aloha Cookin' proves that great Hawaiian food doesn't need a beachfront location or tiki bar atmosphere - just a commitment to authenticity and a passion for bold, flavorful cuisine. In a region dominated by Midwestern comfort foods, this unassuming restaurant in Troy offers Michigan residents a legitimate taste of the Pacific, transporting them to the islands one plate lunch at a time.