Forget fancy restaurants; the true taste of Hawaii lies in the plate lunch. A heaping helping of rice, macaroni salad, and your choice of savory protein – that’s the plate lunch in a nutshell. It’s a local staple, a cultural icon, and an absolute must-try for any visitor. This isn’t just food; it’s an experience, a glimpse into the heart of Hawaiian culture, and a darn good meal that won’t break the bank. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the islands, one plate lunch at a time!
Oahu: The King of Variety
Oahu, the “Gathering Place,” is a plate lunch paradise. With its diverse population and bustling food scene, you can find every variation imaginable. Let’s start with Rainbow Drive-In (3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815). This legendary spot has been serving up plate lunches since 1961. Their mixed plate, featuring BBQ beef, boneless chicken, and a scoop of that unforgettable macaroni salad, is a classic. What makes Rainbow Drive-In truly special is its no-frills atmosphere. You order at the window, grab a seat at a picnic table, and soak in the local vibes. Expect to pay around $12-$15 for a plate lunch here.
Beyond Rainbow Drive-In, venture into the heart of Honolulu. Helena’s Hawaiian Food (1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817) is a James Beard Award-winning institution. Prepare for a wait, but trust me, it’s worth it. Their kalua pig, cooked in an underground oven (imu), is melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The pipikaula short ribs, marinated and dried, are another must-try. Helena’s is pricier than some other plate lunch spots (around $20-$25 per plate), but the quality and tradition are unparalleled. Be aware this place closes early and accepts CASH ONLY! Check their hours online to avoid disappointment.
For a more budget-friendly option in Honolulu, consider Zippy’s. Zippy’s is a local chain with locations all over Oahu. While they offer a wider menu, their Korean fried chicken plate is a perennial favorite. It’s crispy, sweet, and spicy, and comes with the obligatory rice and mac salad. A plate lunch from Zippy’s will typically cost you between $10-$12.
If you’re venturing beyond Honolulu, head to the North Shore. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731) is another iconic food truck experience. While technically not a traditional plate lunch, their shrimp scampi plate is legendary. Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in garlic butter, served with rice. It’s messy, flavorful, and utterly addictive. Be prepared for a slightly higher price point here (around $15-$20), but the experience is worth it. The truck is covered in graffiti from past customers, so feel free to add your own mark!
Practical Tip: Don’t be afraid to order “mixed” plates. This allows you to sample different proteins and find your favorites. Also, most plate lunch spots offer brown rice as an alternative to white rice, so don’t hesitate to ask. Finally, remember that plate lunches are typically large portions, so consider sharing if you’re not a big eater.
Maui: More Than Just Beaches
Maui, known for its breathtaking beaches and lush landscapes, also boasts a vibrant plate lunch scene. Star Noodle (286 Kupuohi St Ste 103, Lahaina, HI 96761) in Lahaina might surprise you. While it’s a noodle house, their Hapa Ramen is essentially a deconstructed plate lunch in noodle form. It features pork belly, a poached egg, and a rich broth that will leave you wanting more. This dish is pricier than a typical plate lunch (around $20), but the quality and flavors are exceptional. Star Noodle can get busy, so reservations are recommended.
For a more traditional Maui plate lunch experience, try Eskimo Candy Seafood Market & Cafe (2665 Wai Wai Pl, Kihei, HI 96753) in Kihei. They offer a wide selection of fresh seafood, including poke bowls and fish plates. Their katsu chicken, crispy and flavorful, is also a popular choice. You can get a hearty plate lunch here for around $12-$15. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for a relaxed meal after a day at the beach.
Another hidden gem on Maui is Tin Roof (360 Papa Pl #116, Kahului, HI 96732) in Kahului. Owned by Top Chef alum Sheldon Simeon, Tin Roof elevates the plate lunch experience with its creative dishes and fresh ingredients. Their Mochiko Chicken is a must-try, known for its unique texture and flavor profile. It’s a little more expensive than a traditional plate lunch spot at around $15-$18, but the quality and innovation make it worth the splurge. Be sure to check their daily specials, as Chef Simeon often features unique and exciting dishes.
Don’t Miss: Try the Maui ribs at a local spot like Tasty Crust Restaurant (1770 Mill St, Wailuku, HI 96793). They are slow-cooked and fall-off-the-bone tender.
Insider Tip: Many smaller, family-run plate lunch spots on Maui don’t have websites or social media pages. Ask locals for recommendations – they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction!
Kauai: The Garden Isle’s Hidden Gems
Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” is known for its stunning natural beauty. Its plate lunch scene is a bit more low-key than Oahu’s and Maui’s, but it still offers plenty of delicious options. Pono Market (4-1300 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746) in Kapaa is a local favorite, known for its authentic Hawaiian food and reasonable prices. Their lau lau, pork wrapped in taro leaves and steamed, is a must-try. Their kalua pig is also excellent. A plate lunch here will cost you around $10-$12.
For a taste of Kauai’s unique flavors, head to Kountry Kitchen (1485 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa, HI 96746) which boasts an extensive breakfast and local Hawaiian cuisine. While they do not brand themselves as a plate lunch provider, they offer a variety of traditional Hawaiian dishes that can be modified to a plate option. Dishes like the fried poke, or lilikoi ribs can be made into complete plate lunches with rice and macaroni salad.
Another great option on Kauai is Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. near Hanalei Bay. Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. is not only a restaurant, but also home to local taro farms. This place offers a unique opportunity to taste local farm-to-table cuisine, which focuses on ingredients sourced grown, and processed on the island. Here you can find traditional Hawaiian plates, local drinks, and taro-based treats.
If you’re near Poipu, consider stopping at Koloa Fish Market (5482 Koloa Rd, Koloa, HI 96756). While primarily a fish market, they also serve up delicious plate lunches. Their fresh catch of the day, grilled or fried, is always a good choice. Expect to pay around $15-$18 for a plate lunch here.
Pro-Tip: Plate lunch spots in Kauai tend to close earlier than those on Oahu and Maui. Check their hours before you go, especially if you’re planning a late lunch.
Big Island: Volcanoes and Value
The Big Island, also known as Hawaii Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Its diverse landscape, from active volcanoes to snow-capped mountains, is truly awe-inspiring. The plate lunch scene here is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. Pine Tree Cafe (73-4398A Holualoa Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96725) in Kona is a local institution. Their kalbi ribs, marinated and grilled, are legendary. They also offer a variety of other plate lunch options, including teriyaki beef, katsu chicken, and fried fish. Portions are massive, and prices are reasonable (around $10-$12 per plate).
For a taste of Hawaiian soul food, head to Broke Da Mouth Grindz (70 E Puainako St Suite 108, Hilo, HI 96720) in Hilo. They specialize in local comfort food, with a focus on traditional Hawaiian dishes. Their lau lau and kalua pig are excellent, and their macaroni salad is creamy and delicious. A plate lunch here will cost you around $12-$15.
Another hidden gem on the Big Island is Hawaiian Style Cafe (681 Manono St, Hilo, HI 96720) right across the street from Broke Da Mouth Grindz in Hilo. The Hawaiian Style Cafe is another great option for finding authentic food and plate lunches. Known for HUGE portion sizes, you will get your money’s worth if you come here! Many will share one of their plate lunches between two people.
If you’re visiting Volcanoes National Park, stop by Kilauea Lodge Restaurant for a more upscale take on plate lunch. While pricier than other options (around $20-$25), the ambiance and food quality are exceptional. Try the Loco Moco, a Hawaiian classic consisting of rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and gravy.
Big Island Tip: Driving distances on the Big Island can be long, so plan your plate lunch stops accordingly. Keep an eye out for roadside food trucks – they often offer some of the best and most authentic plate lunches.
Macaroni Salad: The Unsung Hero
No discussion of plate lunches would be complete without mentioning macaroni salad. This seemingly simple side dish is an integral part of the plate lunch experience. While recipes vary from place to place, the basic ingredients are elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and a touch of sweetness. The best macaroni salad is creamy, slightly tangy, and perfectly complements the savory protein and rice. Some spots add additional ingredients, such as peas, carrots, or tuna. Don’t underestimate the importance of the macaroni salad – it’s often the deciding factor in whether a plate lunch is good or great.
Beyond the Plate: The Culture of Sharing
The plate lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of Hawaiian culture. It represents the spirit of ohana (family) and the importance of sharing. It’s common for locals to buy plate lunches to share with their friends and family. The act of sharing a meal is a way of showing love and aloha. So, when you’re enjoying your plate lunch, remember that you’re participating in a cultural tradition that has been passed down for generations.
Respecting Local Customs
When visiting plate lunch spots, it’s important to be respectful of local customs. Be patient, especially during peak hours. Many spots are small and family-run, so service may be a bit slower than you’re used to. Be friendly and polite, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most importantly, remember to say “mahalo” (thank you) when you’re done. A little bit of aloha goes a long way.
Cost Expectations
The price of plate lunches can vary depending on the location and the type of protein you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $10 and $25 for a plate lunch. Seafood plates tend to be more expensive than chicken or beef plates. Touristy areas may also have slightly higher prices. However, even in the more expensive areas, you can still find affordable and delicious plate lunches. Remember to check online reviews and ask locals for recommendations to find the best deals.
Navigating the Menu
Plate lunch menus can sometimes be confusing for first-time visitors. Here’s a quick guide to some common terms: Kalua Pig: Smoked, roasted pig. Lau Lau: Pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. Teriyaki Beef: Beef marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based marinade. Katsu Chicken: Breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlet. Loco Moco: Rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy. Poke: Raw fish salad. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff about the different options – they’ll be happy to explain them to you.
FAQ Section
What is typically included in a plate lunch?
A traditional plate lunch consists of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a main protein such as kalua pig, teriyaki beef, katsu chicken, or fish.
Where can I find the best plate lunches?
Great plate lunches can be found all over the Hawaiian Islands, from hole-in-the-wall eateries to food trucks and local restaurants. Ask locals for their recommendations!
How much does a plate lunch usually cost?
The cost varies, but you can typically expect to pay between $10 and $25 for a plate lunch.
Are there vegetarian or vegan plate lunch options?
While traditional plate lunches heavily feature meat, some places offer vegetarian or vegan options, such as tofu or vegetable stir-fries. Be sure to inquire about these options at the restaurant.
Is it okay to share a plate lunch?
Absolutely! Plate lunches are often large portions, and sharing is a common practice, especially if you want to try multiple dishes.
What is the significance of macaroni salad in a plate lunch?
Macaroni salad is a staple side dish in a plate lunch. Its creamy, slightly sweet flavor complements the savory protein and rice, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
References
Helena’s Hawaiian Food Website.
Zippy’s Hawaii Menu.
Ready to dive into the plate lunch paradise that is Hawaii? Don’t just take my word for it; book your trip, grab a fork, and experience the flavors for yourself! Start with the spots I’ve mentioned, but don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path and discover your own hidden gems. Talk to locals, explore different islands, and most importantly, savor every bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. So go ahead, book that flight, and get ready for a culinary adventure you’ll never forget. Aloha, and bon appétit!
