Must-try Dishes
Breadfruit - Latiya (filling breakfast) - Soft, steamed breadfruit served with a savory coconut sauce and often cooked with onions and tomatoes. Locals enjoy it first thing in the morning, typically paired with a cup of hot chamorro coffee.
BBQ Skewers - Talaya (popular street food) - Marinated chicken or pork skewered and grilled over open flames, coated in a sweet, tangy sauce. Perfect for lunch on the go, these are commonly found at festivals and local markets—keep an eye out for the aroma!
Red Rice - Ahu (local specialty) - Flavorful rice cooked with achiote, giving it a vibrant reddish hue and a hint of earthy flavor. Often served at dinner alongside grilled meats, it's a staple found in many local homes, especially during special occasions.
Chicken Kelaguen - Kelaguen Manok (traditional main course) - Freshly marinated chicken mixed with lemon, onions, and green chilies, served cold. According to tradition, it’s often eaten at family gatherings or barbecues, wrapped in a lettuce leaf for a refreshing bite.
Fish and Rice - Baka (comforting combination) - Grilled fish topped with a light salsa made of diced tomatoes and onions, served with a side of white rice. It’s a simple but satisfying dish, usually enjoyed during a laid-back Sunday lunch by the beach.
Saipan Macadamia - Sioh (seasonal variation) - Fried chicken wings smothered in a rich macadamia nut sauce, creating a unique twist for the holidays. You’ll find this dish popping up during autumn when locals gather for family feasts—definitely worth trying if you’re lucky to be around!
Chamarro Plate - Plate Chamorro (hearty local specialty) - A generous serving of pork, red rice, and a side of potato salad, showcasing the island’s rich flavors. Enjoyed casually at large family meals, it’s perfect for sharing—with everyone digging in from one big plate, embracing the communal dining culture.
Desserts & Drinks
Guam Coffee - Kape (local coffee) - Strong, rich coffee made from locally grown beans often brewed with sugarcane syrup for extra sweetness. It’s a daily staple enjoyed in the mornings, often accompanied by breakfast chats among friends (by the way, you might want to ask for it "latte style" to avoid getting just black coffee, which can be an ordering mistake).
Passion Fruit Juice - Mela‘e (refreshing cold drink) - Bright and tangy juice made from fresh passion fruits, typically served chilled over ice. Locals love to sip it while lounging at the beach or during community events, especially in the hot summer months; it’s a fantastic way to stay hydrated and enjoy the tropical flavors.
Rhum Sour - Rhum Sour (tropical alcoholic drink) - A fabulous cocktail made with local rhum, lime juice, and often a splash of vanilla syrup, served over ice. You’ll find it at local beach bars on a warm evening, where friends gather to unwind after a long day (locals often debate the best mixture, so feel free to join in).
Empanada - Empanada (pastry dessert) - Flaky pastry stuffed with sweetened coconut, often enjoyed during festivals or as an afternoon snack. They’re usually served warm from street vendors, but be wary; locals prefer them oven-baked rather than fried for that delightful texture.
Fried Ice Cream - Ice Cream Frito (cold dessert) - A playful treat where ice cream is battered and quickly fried, creating a crispy shell while keeping the inside cold and creamy. It’s especially popular at summer fairs and celebrations, guaranteed to please kids and adults alike on a hot day.