We know the feeling of standing at the counter, menu in hand, facing the most delicious dilemma on the North Shore.
Selecting the right protein isn’t just about hunger levels.
Our team has watched thousands of locals and visitors wrestle with this exact choice since 2010.
That was the year Joey Fullmer converted an old fast-food building in Hau’ula into the kitchen that started it all.
We have learned that your perfect order depends entirely on your flavor preferences and your daily activity.
This guide will help you find your match among the options on our menu.
The Fish Taco: Our Award-Winning Classic
Best for: First-time visitors, seafood purists, and those seeking the authentic Hawaii experience.
We built our reputation on this specific item.
Locally caught mahi-mahi serves as the foundation for this dish because of its firm texture and mild flavor.
Our kitchen prepares this fish fresh daily to ensure it never tastes “fishy” or overly salty.
You can order it grilled with our house seasoning or beer-battered to a golden finish.
The Science of the Beer Batter
We use a precise temperature for our fryer oil to ensure the batter crisps up immediately upon contact.
This technique prevents the oil from soaking into the fish.
Our batter recipe creates a shell that protects the moisture of the mahi-mahi inside.
Sunset Magazine cited this specific preparation when they named us the #1 Fish Tacos in Hawaii.
The Grilled Alternative
We recommend the grilled option for a lighter meal that highlights the natural taste of the ocean.
High heat gives the fish a slight char that complements the citrus notes in our house-made pico de gallo.
Our legendary Surf Sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish that binds the cabbage and fish together.
Pro tip: Can’t decide between battered and grilled? Order one of each. Many regulars use this “split strategy” to enjoy both textures in a single sitting.
The Shrimp Taco: Sweet, Succulent, and Underrated
Best for: Garlic lovers, fans of sweet-savory profiles, and anyone looking for a break from fish.
We find that this option frequently converts customers who claim they “don’t usually order shrimp.”
North Shore style shrimp is famous for a reason.
Our kitchen uses plump, large shrimp that hold up well to high-heat grilling.
The natural sugars in the shellfish caramelize quickly when they hit the grill.
We toss them in a garlic marinade that permeates the meat rather than just sitting on the surface.
Did You Know? Shrimp is incredibly protein-dense, providing roughly 20-24 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. It is an excellent option for muscle recovery after a long paddle out at the break.
Why people love it:
- Texture: The shrimp provides a distinct “snap” that offers a different mouthfeel than flakey fish.
- Flavor Balance: The savory garlic marinade cuts through the natural sweetness of the meat.
- Pairing: It works exceptionally well with our tropical toppings.
Pro tip: Ask for extra pineapple salsa on the shrimp taco. The acid from the pineapple activates the garlic notes in the shrimp for a bolder flavor.
The Steak Taco: Bold, Hearty, and Satisfying
Best for: Post-surf recovery, meat lovers, and hikers coming down from the trails.
We know that sometimes seafood just won’t cut it after a physically demanding day.
Marinated flank steak serves as the core of this hearty taco.
Our chefs maximize tenderness by slicing the steak against the grain after grilling it to a medium temperature.
The marinade process is crucial here.
We let the beef rest in a blend of lime, garlic, and cumin for hours to break down the fibers and infuse flavor.
The Flour Tortilla Advantage
We serve the steak taco on a flour tortilla by default because of the heavier filling weight.
Corn tortillas can sometimes break under the weight of juicy steak and salsa.
The flour option provides a sturdy vessel that ensures every piece of meat makes it to your mouth.
Why people love it: This item proves we are not limited to just seafood. Locals who visit us multiple times a week often rotate to steak to switch up their protein intake. The portion size is generous enough to refuel you for the afternoon session.
Pro tip: Try the Surf & Turf plate. You get two fish tacos and a steak taco with rice and beans. This combination provides a complete spectrum of flavors and macronutrients.
The Chicken Taco: The Crowd-Pleaser
Best for: Families, picky eaters, and those who prefer familiar, comforting flavors.
We treat our chicken with the same culinary respect as our premium seafood.
Fresh chicken thighs are used instead of breasts because they retain moisture better during grilling.
Our marinade features a citrus-herb blend that keeps the meat juicy and bright.
This option appeals to the widest range of palates.
Why people love it:
- Consistency: It delivers a reliable, savory flavor every single time.
- Versatility: It pairs with every salsa on our bar.
- Kid-Friendly: The seasoning is flavorful without being spicy.
Pro tip: The chicken taco is also the base for our most popular keiki (kids) meal. Parents tell us this is the safest bet for ensuring clean plates at dinner time.
Comparison: Finding Your Perfect Protein
We created this comparison table to help you make a quick decision based on what you are craving right now.
| Feature | Fish (Mahi-Mahi) | Shrimp | Steak | Chicken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Mild, clean, slightly nutty | Sweet, garlicky, rich | Savory, smoky, bold | Herbaceous, citrusy, mild |
| Texture | Flaky (Grilled) or Crispy (Battered) | Firm snap, juicy | Chewy, tender | Tender, moist |
| Best For | The classic North Shore experience | Sweet & savory fans | heavy hunger & refueling | Picky eaters & kids |
| Top Salsa Pairing | Pico de Gallo | Pineapple Salsa | Roasted Red Salsa | Any Salsa |
The Combination Strategy
We suggest mixing your proteins if you are struggling to commit to just one.
Insider regulars have mastered the art of the “Combo Plate” to avoid decision fatigue.
Our menu structure allows you to sample multiple items without over-ordering.
- The Taco Trio: Select any three tacos with different proteins to create your own tasting flight.
- The Family Pack: Our catering-style family packs allow large groups to try a bit of everything.
- The Weekly Rotation: Commit to a different protein each visit to find your personal favorite.
The Bottom Line
We guarantee the same commitment to freshness regardless of which protein you select.
North Shore Tacos has become an award-winning institution because we refuse to cut corners on ingredients.
Your only real challenge is deciding which flavor profile matches your current mood.
Come visit us at our Hau’ula restaurant or Shark’s Cove food truck to taste the difference yourself.
We are always happy to give you a personal recommendation at the counter if you still can’t decide.
