Hawaii’s Best Plate Lunches: Cheap Eats & Big Flavors

The plate lunch is Hawaii’s soul food, a culinary emblem as iconic as shave ice and surfing. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a reflection of the islands’ diverse cultures and a cornerstone of local life, offering hearty portions at prices that won’t break the bank. Let’s dive into the world of Hawaiian plate lunches, exploring the best spots, navigating the menu, and understanding why this simple yet satisfying meal holds such a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and visitors alike.

What Exactly is a Plate Lunch?

At its core, a plate lunch consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and a main entrée. This trinity of flavors and textures is the base upon which countless variations are built. The rice is usually steamed white rice, sometimes short-grain, offering a slightly sticky consistency perfect for soaking up sauces. Macaroni salad, a creamy, slightly sweet concoction, is a uniquely Hawaiian twist, often made with mayonnaise, elbow macaroni, and sometimes vegetables like carrots or celery. But the real star is the entrée, which can range from traditional Hawaiian dishes to Asian-inspired flavors. It serves as the highlight of the plate, allowing the plate’s consumers to explore and appreciate the diversity of Hawaiian cuisine.

Navigating the Menu: The Entrees

The sheer variety of entrees available in a plate lunch joint can be overwhelming, but that’s part of the fun. Here are some of the most popular and noteworthy options:

Kalua Pig: This is a must-try for anyone new to Hawaiian cuisine. Kalua pig is traditionally cooked in an underground oven (imu) and has a smoky, tender, and intensely flavorful taste. Many plate lunch places offer a simpler version, often slow-cooked in specialized ovens, but the essence remains the same: a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a plate lunch featuring kalua pig.
Lau Lau: Another classic, laulau is pork (or sometimes fish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. The taro leaves impart a subtle, earthy flavor to the meat, creating a unique and satisfying dish. It’s typically very tender and flavorful after steaming. Cost is similar to kalua pig.
Chicken Katsu: A Japanese influence, chicken katsu is breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlets served with a tonkatsu sauce (a sweet and savory brown sauce). This is a perennial favorite, especially for those who enjoy something a little crispy and familiar. A plate lunch with chicken katsu typically costs between $9-$13.
Beef Teriyaki: Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s a quick and easy favorite, offering a satisfying combination of sweetness and umami. Expect to pay between $8-$12 for a plate.
Loco Moco: The loco moco is a quintessential Hawaiian comfort food. It consists of a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and smothered in gravy, all served over rice. It’s a hearty and delicious dish that will leave you feeling completely satisfied. You can find variations with different types of gravy (like brown gravy or mushroom gravy) and toppings. The price range is typically $8-$14, depending on the size of the patty and the restaurant.
Garlic Shrimp: A popular dish, especially on Oahu’s North Shore, garlic shrimp is typically sautéed in butter, garlic, and other seasonings. It’s a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for shrimp lovers. Prices vary but usually fall between $12-$18, which reflects the increasing prices of seafood.
Kalbi Ribs: Marinated Korean short ribs, grilled or pan-fried. Kalbi offers a robust and savory flavor profile that nicely complements the rice and macaroni salad. Expect to pay a bit more for this, usually between $14-$20.
Spam Musubi Plate: For the uninitiated, spam musubi is a slice of grilled spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with nori (seaweed). This is a very popular snack, but some places offer a plate version featuring the musubi along with other sides. It’s a very affordable option, with plates often costing under $10.

The Macaroni Salad: A Hawaiian Staple

No plate lunch is complete without a scoop of macaroni salad. While seemingly simple, macaroni salad is a deeply personal thing. Each establishment has its own recipe, and everyone has their favorite. Some are sweeter, some are tangier, some include vegetables, and some are just plain creamy. The key is finding one you love. Don’t be afraid to ask if you can sample a small bit of macaroni salad before ordering. Asking about the macaroni salad’s ingredients can offer insights into its taste and texture; some spots use miracle whip instead of mayonnaise. Its function is the counter-balancing element to rich and savory main dishes, and the unique combination of textures make it a vital part of the plate lunch experience.

Finding the Best Plate Lunches: Island by Island

Hawaii is a collection of islands, and each island has its own unique plate lunch scene. Here are some notable places to find amazing plate lunches on each of the main islands:

Oahu
Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Honolulu): This legendary spot is known for its traditional Hawaiian dishes, including kalua pig, laulau, and pipikaula (dried beef). Be prepared for a line, as it’s a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Their menu is relatively small but everything there is made with a great attention to detail and traditional cooking methods. Located at 1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817.
Rainbow Drive-In (Honolulu): A classic drive-in serving plate lunches since 1961. Their mixed plate (beef teriyaki, chicken katsu, and kalua pig) is a popular choice. It’s a great option for a quick and inexpensive meal. Located at 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815.
Zippy’s (Various Locations): A local chain with locations all over the island, Zippy’s is a reliable option for plate lunches and other local favorites. Their chili is famous, and they offer a variety of plate lunch entrees.
Ono Seafood (Honolulu): If you’re craving poke (a raw fish salad), Ono Seafood is the place to go, but they also offer plate lunches with options like ahi (tuna) and tako (octopus). Located at 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816. This establishment is great for trying Hawaiian dishes.
Maui
Star Noodle (Lahaina): While not strictly a “plate lunch” place, Star Noodle offers a modern take on Asian-inspired dishes, including a delicious dry mein (noodles) that can be considered a gourmet plate lunch. Great spot with high ratings. Located at 286 Kupuohi St #104, Lahaina, HI 96761.
Sam Sato’s (Wailuku): Another noodle institution, Sam Sato’s is known for its dry mein and manju (a Japanese pastry). It’s a local favorite, so be prepared for a wait. It’s the perfect spot for a budget friendly plate lunch. Located at 1750 Wili Pa Loop, Wailuku, HI 96793.
Tin Roof (Kahului): Run by a “Top Chef” finalist, it features elevated versions of local favorites, served in a casual setting. Their garlic noodles and mochiko chicken are popular dishes. Located at 360 Papa Pl #116, Kahului, HI 96732.
Visit their website for ordering information, hours, and locations.
Kauai
Pono Market (Kapaa): A local institution offering a wide variety of plate lunches, including kalua pig, laulau, and poke. It’s a great place to try authentic Hawaiian food at reasonable prices. Pono Market offers consumers with many unique Hawaiian dishes. Located at 4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746.
Kilauea Fish Market (Kilauea): This spot is known for its fresh fish plates, including grilled ahi, mahimahi, and ono. It’s a bit pricier than other plate lunch spots, but the quality of the fish is worth it. Located at 4270 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754.
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. (Hanalei): Serving traditional Hawaiian food, including poi (pounded taro root), kalua pig, and laulau. It’s a great place to learn about Hawaiian culture and cuisine. It offers a unique dining experience compared to other establishments in the area. Located at 5-5070 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714.
Big Island (Hawaii Island)
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue (Various Locations): A chain, but a reliable one. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue has various location, and serves all the plate lunch staples. It is great for those who are familiar with the food.
Pine Trees Cafe (Hilo): A local spot known for its generous portions and affordable prices. They offer a wide variety of plate lunches, including kalua pig, chicken katsu, and beef teriyaki.
Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill (Kailua-Kona): Jackie Rey’s is a restaurant with a solid lunch plate selection. It’s one of the more popular plate lunch places to go to in the area. Located at 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

Tips for the Plate Lunch Newbie

If you’re new to the world of plate lunches, here are a few tips to help you navigate the experience:

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The staff at plate lunch places are typically friendly and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask them about the different entrees and what they recommend.
Consider sharing. Plate lunches are often quite large, so if you’re not a big eater, consider sharing a plate with someone else.
Embrace the “local” vibe. Plate lunch places are often no-frills establishments, but that’s part of their charm. Don’t expect fancy decor or impeccable service; just focus on the delicious food.
Try something new. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try an entree you’ve never had before. You might discover a new favorite.
Check opening hours. Some plate lunch places, especially the smaller, family-run ones, tend to have limited hours, so check online reviews or call ahead to confirm.
Bring cash. While many places now accept cards, some smaller establishments still prefer cash.
Look for the “specials”. Many spots run daily or weekly specials which often feature unique or seasonal dishes.

The Plate Lunch as a Cultural Icon

The plate lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of Hawaii’s unique cultural blend. It reflects the islands’ history as a melting pot of different cultures, including Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese. Each culture has contributed to the plate lunch in its own way, creating a diverse and delicious culinary tradition. The affordability and heartiness of the plate lunch also makes it the go-to option for many locals. The way it’s served also lends it to community; you aren’t just eating, you’re connecting with the common experience of island culture. It’s a symbol of the Aloha spirit, a sharing and generosity.

Beyond the Basics: Variations and Upgrades

While the classic plate lunch formula remains the same, you can find endless variations and upgrades. Some places offer brown rice as a healthier alternative to white rice. Others provide different types of macaroni salad, such as spicy or vegetarian versions. You can also often add extras like kimchi, seaweed salad, or pickled vegetables. A common “upgrade” is to add a side of fried noodles or chicken karaage. The possibilities are endless. Also, it should be noted that some variations of “plate” lunches have different side dishes. The sides of choice are the elements that help the dishes stand out. While rice and macaroni salad are common, the main courses are the highlights of any plate lunch.

The Economic Impact of the Plate Lunch

The plate lunch industry is a significant part of Hawaii’s economy. It provides jobs for countless people and supports local farmers and suppliers. Many plate lunch spots are small, family-owned businesses, and they play an important role in their communities. Plate lunches offer an affordable meal option for many people, and it is not uncommon to see construction workers go to a plate lunch place to eat. These establishments are typically highly rated by the local members.

Why the Plate Lunch Matters

In a world of culinary trends and ever-changing food fads, the plate lunch remains a constant in Hawaii. It’s a reminder of the islands’ unique culture, a celebration of its diverse flavors, and a symbol of its enduring spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing a plate lunch is an essential part of any trip to Hawaii. It is something that is enjoyed by residents and tourists alike. It’s a very important facet of the dining experience to many in Hawaii.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about plate lunches:

What’s the best way to find a great plate lunch spot?

Ask the locals! The people working at your hotel, the clerks at the grocery store, or even the person sitting next to you on the bus are all likely to have their own favorite plate lunch spots. Online reviews can also be helpful, but be sure to read them with a grain of salt.

How much should I expect to pay for a plate lunch?

Prices vary depending on the entrée and the location, but you can generally expect to pay between $8 and $20 for a plate lunch. Some places will be more expensive if the plate lunch has higher quality meats and ingredients.

Is it okay to eat a plate lunch every day?

While delicious, plate lunches are often high in calories and fat, so it’s probably not a good idea to eat them every day. Moderation is key!

What’s the difference between a plate lunch and a bento box?

While both are convenient and portable meals, a plate lunch is typically Hawaiian-style food, while a bento box is Japanese-style food with a variety of smaller dishes. A plate lunch tends to have substantial servings of a singular dish, while a bento box contains small portions of various dishes.

Are there vegetarian or vegan plate lunch options?

Vegetarian and vegan plate lunch options are becoming more common, but they can still be hard to find. Look for places that offer tofu, vegetable stir-fries, or other plant-based entrees. Call ahead to be sure and ask about the ingredients of sauces and macaroni salad, as they may contain animal products.

Can I customize my plate lunch?

In many places you can! Don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions or additions. You might be able to swap out the macaroni salad for a side salad, or add extra rice. However, there may be an additional charge for doing so.

Are there any etiquette tips for eating a plate lunch?

Not really! Just dig in and enjoy! It’s perfectly acceptable to eat with your hands, especially if you’re eating something like kalua pig or laulau. It’s meant to be a casual and enjoyable dining experience.

References

The Food of Paradise: Exploring the Culinary Traditions of Hawai’i by Rachel Laudan
Lonely Planet Hawaii
Various online reviews and restaurant guides

Ready to embark on your own plate lunch adventure? Book that flight to Hawaii, skip the fancy restaurants for a day, and head straight to a local plate lunch spot. You won’t just be filling your stomach; you’ll be experiencing a genuine piece of Hawaiian culture, one delicious bite at a time. Go ahead. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!

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Emily Carter

I’m Emily Carter, a passionate traveler, writer, and adventure seeker who loves uncovering hidden gems around the world. Whether I’m snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring vibrant local markets, or hiking scenic trails, I find joy in discovering new places and sharing them with others. Photography, storytelling, and trying new cuisines fuel my wanderlust, and I’m always on the lookout for my next adventure. Through my writing, I strive to bring destinations to life, offering vivid descriptions and practical tips to inspire fellow explorers. If there’s a new place to discover, you can bet I’m already planning my next trip!
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