Forget fancy restaurants and overpriced luaus – if you want to truly experience Hawaiian cuisine, you need to dive headfirst into the world of plate lunch. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a cultural institution, a local staple, and the quickest way to fuel up for a day of surfing, hiking, or simply soaking in the sun. This guide will steer you clear of tourist traps and point you toward the hidden gems where you’ll find the most authentic, mouthwatering plate lunches the islands have to offer.
Oahu: Beyond Waikiki’s Shores
Alright, Oahu. It’s the most visited island, which also means the most tourist traps. But don’t let that scare you away. Just step outside of Waikiki and you’ll find plate lunch gold. Let’s start in Honolulu, but venture outwards.
Rainbow Drive-In (Kapahulu): A Honolulu Institution
Rainbow Drive-In, located at 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, is a classic for a reason. Open since 1961, it’s a walk-up counter with covered outdoor seating. Their “Mixed Plate” is the go-to for many: featuring two scoops of rice, macaroni salad (more on that later), and your choice of two entrees. What to order: the Mixed Plate with BBQ short ribs and teriyaki beef. The gravy is legendary, and it’s poured liberally over everything. The cost is around $12-$15 per plate, incredibly reasonable for the amount of food you get.
Getting there: From Waikiki, take Kuhio Avenue east and turn onto Kapahulu Avenue. Rainbow Drive-In will be on your right. Parking can be a challenge, but there’s usually street parking available nearby. Alternatively, TheBus (Oahu’s public transportation) has routes that stop close by.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Kalihi): A Taste of Old Hawaii
If you’re looking for a more traditional Hawaiian experience, Helena’s Hawaiian Food, at 1240 N School St, Honolulu, is a must. Be warned: it’s tiny, and there’s almost always a line. But trust me, it’s worth the wait. They specialize in classic Hawaiian dishes like Kalua Pig, Pipikaula (dried beef), and Lomi Salmon. What to order: The Kalua Pig plate is phenomenal. Their short ribs are also incredibly popular, but be prepared for very tender, very fatty pieces. This place is known for traditionally tasting food, and it is very authentic.
Cost: Plates range from $15-$25, depending on the options chosen. Pro-tip: Arrive early (before they open) to minimize your wait time. They often sell out of popular items. Reservations are recommended if available, but it’s also a great place for takeout to enjoy at a nearby park.
Getting there: Helena’s is located in the Kalihi neighborhood, a bit outside of the main tourist areas. TheBus is a good option, or you can drive. Parking is limited.
Ono Seafood (Kapahulu): Poke Perfection
Okay, this one is technically a poke place, but their poke bowls come with rice, making them totally legitimate plate lunch contenders. Ono Seafood, at 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, serves up incredibly fresh and flavorful poke. What to order: the Ahi Poke bowl (spicy or regular) is a winner. The freshness of the fish is undeniable, and the simple seasonings allow the flavors to shine. They are closed on Sunday and Monday so plan accordingly. Yelp reviews consistently rave about their freshness and flavor.
Cost: Poke bowls are around $13-$17. Getting there: Ono Seafood is on Kapahulu Avenue, making it easily accessible from Waikiki. It’s a small shop that you might miss, so pay close attention to the addresses. Expect a line during peak hours, but it moves quickly.
Highway Inn (Waipahu & Kaka’ako): Modern Hawaiian with a Twist
If you want a more modern take on Hawaiian food in a comfortable sitting, Highway Inn has two locations, with the original being in Waipahu (94-210 Pupukahi St, Waipahu). They offer many of the same traditional dishes as Helena’s, but with a slightly more upscale presentation and ambiance. What to order: The Laulau plate is a must-try, featuring pork and butterfish wrapped in lu’au leaves and steamed. For a classic sample of everything, try the Hawaiian Plate.
Cost: Plates are generally in the $18-$28 range. The Kaka’ako location offers a more modern setting (680 Ala Moana Blvd Suite 105, Honolulu). Consider this a slightly ‘fancy’ plate lunch, but still extremely grounded in Hawaiian flavors and tradition.
Kapolei: A Growing Culinary Hotspot
Venture further west to Kapolei, and you’ll find a growing number of excellent plate lunch options. This rapidly developing area offers a mix of local favorites and newer establishments catering to the local community.
AJA Sushi & Bento (Kapolei): Hidden Gem
Despite the name, AJA Sushi & Bento (91-5431 Kapolei Pkwy Ste 101B, Kapolei) offers a surprisingly good selection of plate lunches alongside their sushi and bento boxes. What to order: The Garlic Chicken plate. The chicken is crispy, flavorful, and not overly greasy. It’s a generous portion at a reasonable price. The Korean Chicken is another strong contender. Expect a little bit of a wait, as everything is prepared fresh.
Cost: The prices here are incredibly reasonable, with most plates costing around $10-$13. Getting there: AJA Sushi & Bento is located in a strip mall in Kapolei. There’s ample parking available.
Maui: Beyond the Road to Hana
Maui is rightfully famous for its beautiful beaches and the Road to Hana, but don’t let those distractions keep you from exploring its culinary scene. Some of the best plate lunches on the islands can be found tucked away in unassuming spots.
Star Noodle (Lahaina): Noodles and Much More
While primarily known for its noodles, Star Noodle, located at 286 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, also serves up some delicious plate lunch-esque options. It’s more of a sit-down restaurant, but their dishes are often served in a similar style and offer a unique twist on local flavors. Their website showcases their menu.
What to order: The Hapa Ramen with pork belly is a popular choice. The Pohole Salad with ferns, tomatoes, and ginger dressing makes a refreshing start to a heavier meal. Cost: Expect to pay slightly more here than at a traditional plate lunch spot, with dishes ranging from $15-$25. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
Geste Shrimp Truck (Kahului): Shrimp Scampi Paradise
Okay, it’s a shrimp truck, not a plate lunch joint per se, but the generous portions of garlic shrimp served with rice make this totally qualify. Geste Shrimp Truck typically sets up shop in Kahului (check their social media for their exact location day-to-day—Facebook is kept updated). What to order: Garlic Shrimp scampi is legendary. They are using a flavorful marinade and cook the shrimp perfectly resulting in juicy, flavorful shrimp. You get a generous portion of shrimp, rice, and a scoop of macaroni salad.
Cost: Around $15-$18. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, as this place is popular. There is often an option for spicy or mild garlic shrimp – spicy is recommended only if you can handle some heat.
Sam Sato’s (Wailuku): Noodle Powerhouse
Sam Sato’s, located at 1750 Wili Pa Loop, Wailuku, is another local favorite famous for its dry mein noodles. They also offer a variety of other plate lunch options. What to order: The Dry Mein is their signature dish, but don’t overlook their BBQ stick, teriyaki plate, or fried noodles. The portions are substantial, and the prices are reasonable. Be prepared for a wait, especially during lunchtime.
Cost: Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a plate lunch. Getting there: Sam Sato’s is located in Wailuku, the central part of Maui. Parking can be a bit challenging, especially during peak hours.
Kauai: The Garden Isle’s Culinary Delights
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, boasts stunning natural beauty, and its food scene is equally compelling. Beyond the resorts, you’ll find numerous local spots dishing out delicious plate lunches.
Pono Market (Kapa’a): A Local’s Favorite
Pono Market, at 4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa’a, is a no-frills deli that’s a favorite among locals. They offer a wide range of prepared foods, including plate lunches, poke, and bentos. What to order: Their Lau Lau is a standout, and their poke selection is fantastic. You can mix and match different items to create your perfect plate. They also sell different Hawaiian food items, so this is a great place to stock up on local specialties.
Cost: Plates are very reasonably priced, generally under $15. Getting there: Pono Market is located in Kapa’a, a central town on Kauai’s east side. It’s easy to find and accessible by car or bus.
Koloa Fish Market (Koloa): Fresh Fish, Simply Prepared
Similar to Ono Seafood on Oahu, Koloa Fish Market (5302 Koloa Rd, Koloa) focuses on fresh fish poke and other seafood dishes. You can get these in a bowl with rice as a plate lunch, or get some fresh ahi to cook at home. What to order: Their ahi poke is exceptional, especially the spicy ahi. The simple preparations allow the quality of the fish to shine through. The smoked meat is also a must-try.
Cost: Expect to pay around $13-$17 for a poke bowl. Getting there: Koloa Fish Market is located in the historic town of Koloa on Kauai’s south shore. It’s a small shop, so be sure to look for it.
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. Food Truck (Hanalei): A Unique & Very Kauai Experience
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. Food Truck is a local gem that should be on everyone’s list. Located right in the middle of a taro field in Hanalei (5-5070 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei), this food truck offers unique and authentic local flavors. What to order: The Kalua Pig plate is a standout, and the Kulolo (taro pudding) is a must-try for dessert. It’s a true farm-to-table experience, and the setting is unforgettable.
Cost: Most plate lunches are around $15-$20. Getting there: The food truck is located on Kuhio Highway in Hanalei, right next to the taro fields. It’s hard to miss.
Big Island: A Culinary Adventure Across Diverse Landscapes
The Big Island, with its diverse landscapes ranging from volcanic deserts to lush rainforests, also boasts a great diversity of culinary experiences. Here are some plate lunch spots worth seeking out.
Pine Trees Cafe (Kailua-Kona): Ocean View Plate Lunch
Pine Trees Cafe, at 73-4390 Holualoa, Kailua-Kona, offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views of the ocean. They are known for their generous portions and reasonable prices. What to order: The Kalbi Ribs are succulent and flavorful. The Mixed Plate allows you to sample a variety of their offerings.
Cost: Plate lunches are priced around $12-$18. Getting there: Pine Trees Cafe is located in Kailua-Kona, making it easily accessible from most hotels and resorts in the area. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Tex Drive In (Honoka’a): Malasadas & Plate Lunches
Tex Drive In (45-690 Pakalana St, Honoka’a) is famous for its hot, freshly made malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts), but also offers solid plate lunches. However, come for the malasadas AND explore the plate lunch menu. What to order: You must get a malasada (or two, or three!). As far as plate lunches, try the Loco Moco – a Big Island staple featuring a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy over rice.
Cost: Plate lunches are around $10-$15, and malasadas are about $1.50 each. Getting there: Tex Drive In is located in Honoka’a, a charming town on the Hamakua Coast. It’s a popular stop for travelers on the way to Waipio Valley.
The Fish and the Hog (Waimea): Dry Rub Heaven
This one is a bit of a different vibe, but The Fish and the Hog is located at 64-1067 Mamalahoa Hwy, Waimea, and their menu centers around southern-style BBQ and fresh seafood, offering some incredible plate-lunch type options. What to order: Their dry-rub ribs are out of this world. The smoked meat is tender and flavorful. Try the brisket or pulled pork for something unique.
Cost: Plates are in the $15-$25 range. Parking is available, and outdoor seating is the norm. This restaurant offers a delicious change from the typical Hawaiian plate lunch.
The Anatomy of a Plate Lunch: Decoding the Classics
Before you embark on your plate lunch adventure, it’s helpful to understand the basic components that make up this iconic meal:
The Rice: The Foundation
Almost every plate lunch includes two scoops of white rice. It’s typically short-grain rice, cooked until slightly sticky. Brown rice is sometimes offered as a healthier alternative, but white rice is the traditional choice. Don’t underestimate the importance of the rice! It serves as a blank canvas for soaking up all the delicious gravies and sauces.
The Macaroni Salad: A Love-It-or-Hate-It Staple
Macaroni salad is a non-negotiable component of a traditional plate lunch. It’s made with elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and various other ingredients like celery, onion, and sometimes even peas or carrots. This style is also commonly referred to as Mac Salad. Hawaiian mac salad is usually on the sweeter side, and the proportion of mayo is very generous. Fair warning: It can be a polarizing dish. Some people absolutely adore it, while others can’t stand it. Either way, you have to try it. It’s a quintessential part of the plate lunch experience.
The Meat (or Fish): The Star of the Show
This is where you get to customize your plate lunch to your liking. The options are seemingly endless, but here are some of the most popular choices:
- Kalua Pig: Slow-roasted pork cooked in an underground oven (imu) until incredibly tender and smoky.
- Teriyaki Beef/Chicken: Grilled meat marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
- BBQ Short Ribs: Korean-style short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection.
- Chicken Katsu: Breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlet served with a sweet and tangy sauce.
- Loco Moco: A hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and gravy over rice. A Big Island specialty.
- Lau Lau: Pork and butterfish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed until tender.
- Poke: Cubed raw fish (usually ahi tuna) marinated in various sauces and seasonings.
- Garlic Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and served with rice.
Beyond the Plate: Tips for an Authentic Experience
Here are a few tips to elevate your plate lunch experience from touristy to truly authentic:
- Go Where the Locals Go: The best plate lunch spots are often hidden gems that aren’t heavily advertised. Ask locals for recommendations. Look for places with long lines and a large contingent of local customers.
- Embrace the Imperfection: Plate lunches are not about fancy presentation or gourmet ingredients. They’re about simple, hearty food served in a no-frills setting.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things: Step outside of your comfort zone and order something you’ve never had before. You might discover a new favorite dish.
- Be Respectful: Remember that plate lunch is a significant part of Hawaiian culture. Be respectful of the food, the people, and the place.
- Eat with Aloha: Enjoy your food, appreciate the moment, and embrace the spirit of aloha.
The Mac Salad Debate: A Deep Dive
Let’s face it, the macaroni salad is a controversial topic. Some people swear by it, while others wrinkle their noses at the mere mention of it. If you’re on the fence, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- It’s Different: Hawaiian mac salad is not like the mac salad you might be used to. It’s typically sweeter and more mayonnaise-heavy.
- Try It at Different Places: Not all mac salads are created equal. Some places make it better than others. Experiment and find a spot that makes it to your liking.
- Mix It In: A common practice is to mix the mac salad with the rice and the meat/sauce to create balance.
Even if you don’t become a mac salad convert, it’s worth trying as part of the overall plate lunch experience.
Cost Considerations: Plate Lunch on a Budget
One of the great things about plate lunch is that it’s generally affordable. You can easily find a filling and delicious meal for under $15-$20. However, prices can vary depending on the location and the ingredients. Here are a few tips for saving money on plate lunch:
- Skip the Tourist Traps: As mentioned earlier, avoid restaurants in heavily touristy areas. Prices are typically higher, and the quality may not be as good.
- Look for Local Spots: These places often offer better value and more authentic food.
- Order Takeout: Many plate lunch spots offer takeout, which can save you money on tips.
- Share a Plate: Plate lunches are often large enough to share, especially if you’re not a big eater.
FAQ Section: Your Plate Lunch Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about plate lunch:
What exactly is a plate lunch?
A plate lunch is a quintessential Hawaiian meal consisting of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a main entree (usually meat or fish). It’s a hearty and affordable meal that’s popular among locals.
Why is macaroni salad always included?
The exact origins are debated, but it is likely that the macaroni salad represents the various other cultures, such as Portuguese, Japanese, Filipino, and others who have impacted the Hawaiian culture. In short, the Hawaiian plate lunch is a representation of Hawaiian culture.
Is plate lunch healthy?
Traditional plate lunch isn’t usually considered a healthy dish because it’s high in carbohydrates and fats. However, you can make healthier choices by opting for brown rice, grilled or steamed entrees, and smaller portions.
Where can I find the best plate lunch?
The best plate lunch spots are usually local, hole-in-the-wall establishments. Ask locals for recommendations, and look for places with long lines of local customers.
What’s the difference between a plate lunch and a bento box?
A plate lunch usually has two scoops of rice and mac salad, while a bento box typically features various small dishes arranged in a box. The flavors often are completely different as well, as a bento box tends to feature Japanese cuisine.
Call to Action
So, ditch the guidebooks, close your eyes, and point to a backstreet on a map of Hawaii. Chances are, you’ll stumble upon a plate lunch joint that will change your life. Or maybe just fill you up with some delicious, down-to-earth island cuisine. The point is, go explore! Get out there and experience the real Hawaii, one plate lunch at a time. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you. Now, go get some grinds – and let me know your favorite spot!
