Forget fancy restaurants; the real heart of Hawaiian cuisine lies in the humble plate lunch. It’s more than just food; it’s an experience, a taste of local culture, and a belly-busting bargain. But beyond the standard tourist traps, there’s a whole world of hidden plate lunch gems waiting to be discovered. This is your local’s guide to finding them.
Beyond the Wiki Wiki Chicken: Understanding the Plate Lunch Mentality
First, let’s get one thing straight: a plate lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an identity. It’s the fuel that powers everyday life in Hawaii. Think of it as a balanced (or unbalanced, depending on your perspective) equation: protein (usually meat), starch (rice or macaroni salad or both!), and sometimes, a token vegetable, all packed into a styrofoam container. The beauty lies in the simplicity and the sheer variety. You might pay anywhere from $8 to $15, depending on the establishment and the contents of your plate but expect generous portions. It’s designed to fill you up!
When you’re venturing into plate lunch territory, remember that asking for directions is perfectly acceptable, and often rewarded with even more local insights. Don’t be afraid to try new things. That “mystery meat” might turn out to be the best kalua pig you’ve ever tasted. And most importantly, embrace the “pau hana” spirit – that feeling of relaxation and satisfaction after a hard day’s work, best enjoyed with a plate lunch in hand.
Oahu’s Best Kept Secrets: Where the Locals Eat
Oahu, being the most populated island, boasts the widest array of plate lunch spots. But the gems are often tucked away, far from the Waikiki crowds. Here are a few must-try locations:
Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Kalihi). This is legendary. Helena’s is a James Beard Award-winning institution. Their signature dish is the kalua pig ribs, smoky, tender, and falling off the bone. Be prepared for a line, especially during lunchtime, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. The prices are moderate, with plates averaging around $15-20. Note hours are restricted to Tuesday – Friday and that they tend to close before stated hours if they run out of food.
Getting there: Helena’s is located at 1240 N School St, Honolulu. Parking can be tricky, so be prepared to circle the block or park a short walk away.
What to order: Kalua Pig Ribs, Pipikaula Short Ribs (dried beef), and Poi (if you’re feeling adventurous).
Pro-tip: Call ahead to check their daily specials, and consider ordering takeout to avoid the crowds. If you are able to dine in, the building is very small and can feel quite cramped.
Ono Seafood (Kapahulu). You can’t talk about Hawaiian food without mentioning poke, and Ono Seafood serves some of the freshest and most flavorful poke bowls on the island. Their fish is sourced daily, and the selection varies depending on what’s available. The ahi poke is a classic for a reason, but don’t be afraid to try the octopus poke, if they have it. Poke bowls are $12-18. This a small building with only outdoor seating available.
Getting there: Ono Seafood is located at 747 Kapahulu Ave #101, Honolulu. Parking is limited, consider ordering take-out or coming before the lunch rush.
What to order: Ahi Poke, Tako (Octopus) Poke, and Spicy Ahi Poke.
Pro-tip: Ask for a sample before you commit to a particular poke flavor. Try it over brown rice for a healthy twist.
Rainbow Drive-In (Kapahulu). A true institution, Rainbow Drive-In has been serving up plate lunches since 1961. It’s a no-frills, old-school drive-in with a loyal following. Their mixed plate (BBQ beef, boneless chicken, and fried fish) is a classic, as is their gravy burger. This is affordable comfort food at its finest, with plates under $10. Be prepared for long lines regardless of time.
Getting there: Rainbow Drive-In is located at 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu.
What to order: Mixed Plate, Gravy Burger, and Loco Moco.
Pro-tip: Add a side of their famous gravy fries. Prepare for a food coma!
Zippy’s (Various locations). While Zippy’s has multiple locations and isn’t exactly “hidden,” it’s a quintessential local chain that deserves a mention. Their chili is legendary, and their Korean Chicken plate is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great option for a quick and affordable meal, especially late at night. The prices are competitive, with plates generally under $12. The locations are open late and some even 24 hours.
Getting there: Numerous locations across Oahu. Check their website for the one nearest you.
What to order: Chili, Korean Chicken, and Zip Pac.
Pro-tip: Order a “chili moco” – a loco moco topped with their famous chili.
Ethel’s Grill (Kalihi). This is a small, unassuming restaurant serving up delicious Okinawan-influenced dishes. Expect authentic flavors and dishes that many locals love, but tourists rarely know about. Look forward to dishes that blend Japanese and local Hawaiian style.
Getting there: 232 Kalihi St, Honolulu, HI 96819
What to order: Mochiko Chicken, Garlic Ahi, and the special daily bentos.
Pro-tip: Call ahead, as hours may vary, and ask what the daily specials are for the best experience. Also, expect a small, intimate dining area, which some frequent visitors enjoy.
Maui’s Munchies: Plate Lunch Paradise
Maui offers a slightly more laid-back vibe, and the plate lunch scene reflects that. Here are a few spots where you can find authentic local grinds:
Star Noodle (Lahaina). While technically a restaurant (and not a drive-in), Star Noodle is a Maui hotspot that serves modern Asian-inspired dishes with a local twist. While not strictly a plate lunch, it is considered good eats by many local residents. The food is more high-end than many local plate lunch locations and comes with a larger bill.
Getting there: 286 Kupuohi St #104, Lahaina, HI 96761
What to order: Pork Buns, Lahaina Fried Soup, and Hapa Ramen.
Pro-tip: Booking is highly recommended since it can get busy really fast with both locals and out-of-state visitors alike.
Tin Roof (Kahului). Owned by Top Chef finalist Sheldon Simeon, Tin Roof serves modern Hawaiian comfort food with a focus on quality ingredients. It may seem counter-intuitive to expect “hidden” and “top chef” in the same breath, but this modest-looking eatery has an affordable lunch plate menu that shouldn’t be missed. The pork belly is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and their garlic noodles are legendary. Expect to pay between $12 and $18 for a satisfying meal.
Getting there: Tin Roof is located at 360 Papa Pl #116, Kahului.
What to order: Pork Belly, Garlic Noodles, and Mochiko Chicken.
Pro-tip: Arrive early, as they often sell out of popular items.
Sam Sato’s (Wailuku). A Maui institution, Sam Sato’s is known for its dry mein, a unique ramen noodle dish tossed with a savory sauce. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that locals swear by. It closes fairly early, so check the hours of operation beforehand!
Getting there: Sam Sato’s is located at 1750 Wili Pa Loop, Wailuku.
What to order: Dry Mein
Pro-tip: Go early, if at all possible.
Island of Hawai’i (The Big Island) Bites: Exploring Local Flavors
The Big Island offers diverse landscapes and flavors. Here are a few plate lunch spots that capture the essence of Hawaiian cuisine:
Pine Trees Cafe (Hilo). This local favorite is located near the airport and is perfect for a quick and tasty meal before or after your flight. Known for its Laulau. Offers a wide variety of options each that captures the essence of Big Island cuisine.
Getting there: 50 E Puainako St #101, Hilo, HI 96720
What to order: Laulau, Kalua Pig, and fresh Poke
Pro-tip: Get there by 11 for prime choices.
Pono’s Fish (Kona). This iconic location offers fresh poke daily and also offers a restaurant with a menu. The dining area has great views and great fish.
Getting there: 74-5563 Kaiwi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
What to order: Fresh Poke, Fish Tacos, and a variety of fish dishes depending on the day’s catch.
Pro-tip: Check the day’s catch, as quality and freshness can vary greatly.
Tex Drive In (Honoka’a). Famous for their Malasadas, Tex Drive In is a must-stop on your way to Waipio Valley. These Portuguese donuts are freshly made and dusted with sugar. They’re best enjoyed hot and fresh. Make sure you take extra napkins!
Getting there: Tex Drive In is located at 45-690 Akoni Pule Hwy, Honoka’a.
What to order: Malasadas
Pro-tip: Order a dozen to share (or not!). Try them plain or with a filling.
Kauai’s Culinary Charms: Hidden Gems on the Garden Isle
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is a paradise for food lovers. Here are a few plate lunch spots that showcase the island’s unique flavors:
Pono Market (Kapa’a). Pono Market is a Kauai institution, offering a wide variety of Hawaiian and local dishes. The staff are super friendly which adds to the local charm of the place. Many visit Pono and consider it a place that reminds many of their local community back in the ’80s and 90s.
Getting there: 4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746
What to order: Laulau, Kalua Pig, and a variety of bentos.
Pro-tip: Visit early, and allow yourself ample time to choose what to get for your plate lunch.
Koloa Fish Market. Specializing in Poke with a wide variety of offerings, you may struggle to choose only one. The fish is fresh and many locals rave about this location.
Getting there: 5482 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756
What to order: Tuna Poke, Octopus Poke, and daily special.
Pro-tip: Try the spicy tuna poke, and have extra for later because you may like it more than your first helping.
Decoding the Plate Lunch Lingo: A Quick Guide
Navigating the plate lunch world can be a bit confusing if you’re not familiar with the local lingo. Here’s a quick guide:
- Mixed Plate: Usually consists of two or three different proteins, rice, and macaroni salad.
- Kalua Pig: Slow-cooked pork, traditionally cooked in an underground oven (imu).
- Lau Lau: Pork (or fish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed.
- Poi: A starchy paste made from taro root. It has a slightly sour taste and is an acquired taste for many.
- Mac Salad: Macaroni salad, a staple side dish consisting of macaroni, mayonnaise, and various other ingredients.
- Loco Moco: Rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy.
- Huli Huli Chicken: Grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
The Mac Salad Mystery: Love It or Hate It
No plate lunch is complete without macaroni salad. This creamy, sometimes overly sweet, side dish is as essential as rice. Every establishment has its own recipe, and preferences vary wildly. Some like it thick and mayonnaise-heavy, while others prefer a lighter, more vinegary version. Regardless of your preference, it’s an integral part of the plate lunch experience. Embrace it or politely decline (but be prepared for confused looks!).
Consider asking “How’s your mac salad?” at your local plate lunch haunt. It’s a great way to cut through the noise and determine whether the establishment actually cares about what they are putting out for locals.
Beyond the Food: The Social Aspect of Plate Lunch
Eating plate lunch is often a social activity. It’s a time to catch up with friends, family, or coworkers. You’ll often see groups gathered around picnic tables, sharing stories and enjoying their meals together. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation with you – it’s all part of the Aloha spirit.
Many times, plate lunch establishments have their own cliques of regulars depending on area. Look for the groups of people, and see if that location may be right for you as a regular!
Takeout Tips: Eating Plate Lunch Like a Pro
Most plate lunch spots are designed for takeout. Here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Bring your own reusable bag: Reduce waste and show your love for the environment.
- Ask for extra sauce: Some dishes are better with a little extra gravy or teriyaki sauce.
- Don’t forget the condiments: Soy sauce, hot sauce, and Hawaiian chili pepper water are all essential additions.
- Find a scenic spot: Enjoy your plate lunch with a view of the ocean, mountains, or a local park.
FAQ Section
What is the average cost of a plate lunch?
The average cost of a plate lunch ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the location and the contents of the plate. Some higher-end establishments may charge more.
Where can I find the best plate lunch on Oahu?
That’s a matter of personal preference! Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Rainbow Drive-In, and Zippy’s are all popular choices. Ask locals for their recommendations; they’ll be happy to share their favorite spots. The best plate lunch will depend on your own personal preferences.
What is the best way to eat poi?
Poi is traditionally eaten with your fingers. Scoop up a small amount and enjoy it with kalua pig or lau lau. Some people prefer to add a little bit of sugar or salt to balance the sourness.
Are there vegetarian or vegan plate lunch options?
While traditional plate lunches are heavily meat-based, some establishments offer vegetarian or vegan options. Look for dishes like tofu stir-fries, veggie burgers, or salads.
What kind of customizations are acceptable when ordering a plate lunch?
Plate lunch spots usually have customizability that depends on the location. You can ask to double your rice, mac salad, or the main dish. However, keep in mind that they may also charge you extra. Ask while you’re there what the cost breakdown might be.
References
- Helena’s Hawaiian Food Website
- Ono Seafood Menu
- Rainbow Drive-In Menu
- Zippy’s Menu
- Star Noodle Website
- Tin Roof Website
- Sam Sato’s Website
Ready to ditch the tourist traps and dive into the authentic flavors of Hawaii? Use this guide to find your own hidden plate lunch gems. Talk to locals, try new things, and embrace the spirit of Aloha. Your taste buds will thank you. Go out and experience plate lunch like a true kama’aina!
