pupus

Pupus is the plural form of the Hawaiian term pupu (pūpū), often used in English to describe small dishes served as appetizers. In Hawaii, pūpū refers to bite-sized items that are prepared hot or cold and shared at gatherings, such as luaus, parties, and casual meals.

The term pūpū comes from the Hawaiian language and means “snack” or “nibble.” The macron over the vowel (ū) indicates a long sound in Hawaiian orthography; in many English texts the macron is omitted, yielding pupu. When used in English, pupus typically refer to multiple such dishes or to a pupu platter, a common presentation that combines a variety of options on a single tray.

Culturally, pupus are a central element of Hawaiian social dining, emphasizing variety, communal eating, and hospitality. Common components include seafood (such as poke or shrimp), meats (like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken), vegetables, and fried or grilled items, often served with dipping sauces. The exact assortment varies by establishment and occasion, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients.

Other uses of the term pupus can be found in non-Hawaiian contexts as well, including as a surname or place name in rare cases. However, in standard culinary and cultural references, pupus primarily denotes the assortment of Hawaiian hors d’oeuvres known as pupu, or a pupu platter. See also: pupu, pupu platter.