Discover the Best Plate Lunch on Oahu: A Mouth-Watering Guide!
Discover the best plate lunch in Oahu! Enjoy delicious and authentic Hawaiian cuisine that will leave you wanting more. Book your table now!
Oahu, the third largest island in Hawaii, is a paradise for food lovers. With its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, Oahu offers a vast array of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Among the many mouth-watering meals that Oahu has to offer, plate lunch stands out as a local favorite. These hearty, filling meals typically consist of rice, macaroni salad, and a protein such as chicken, beef, or fish. If you're looking for the best plate lunch Oahu has to offer, you're in luck. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top spots to grab a plate lunch on the island.
One of the most popular places to get a plate lunch on Oahu is Rainbow Drive-In. This iconic eatery has been serving up plate lunches since 1961 and has become a beloved institution on the island. Their signature dish, the mixed plate, is a must-try. It features a generous portion of teriyaki beef, fried shrimp, and boneless chicken, all served with rice and macaroni salad. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish is simply irresistible.
If you're looking for a healthier option, head to Fresh Catch. This seafood-focused restaurant offers a variety of plate lunches, including their famous poke bowls. Made with fresh, locally sourced fish, these bowls are bursting with flavor and are the perfect choice for those who want a lighter meal. Whether you opt for the classic ahi poke bowl or try something more adventurous like the spicy tuna or octopus poke, you won't be disappointed.
For those who prefer a more traditional plate lunch experience, there's no better place than Ono Hawaiian Foods. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up homestyle Hawaiian cuisine since 1955 and is widely regarded as one of the best places to get a plate lunch on the island. From their kalua pig to their laulau, everything on the menu is made with love and care.
If you're in the mood for something a little different, head to Highway Inn. This restaurant specializes in Hawaiian comfort food and offers a unique take on the classic plate lunch. One of their most popular dishes is the pipikaula short ribs, which are marinated in a special blend of spices and cooked to perfection. Served with rice and macaroni salad, this dish is a true taste of Hawaii.
Another great spot to grab a plate lunch on Oahu is L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. With multiple locations across the island, this chain restaurant has become synonymous with plate lunch culture in Hawaii. Their menu features a wide variety of options, from the classic chicken katsu to the more exotic loco moco. No matter what you choose, you're guaranteed to get a delicious and satisfying meal.
For those who want to take their plate lunch experience to the next level, there's always Helena's Hawaiian Food. This award-winning restaurant has been featured on numerous food shows and has earned a reputation as one of the best places to get authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Their plate lunch offerings include kalua pig, lomi salmon, and poi, all of which are made with the freshest ingredients and prepared with utmost care.
If you're looking for a more upscale plate lunch experience, head to Roy's. This renowned restaurant offers a fusion of Hawaiian and Asian flavors and has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their lunch menu includes a variety of dishes, including the misoyaki butterfish and the Korean fried chicken. With its elegant atmosphere and impeccable service, Roy's is the perfect place to enjoy a plate lunch with a touch of class.
No matter where you go on Oahu, you're sure to find a delicious plate lunch that will satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling happy and satisfied. Whether you opt for a classic mixed plate or try something a little more adventurous, you're guaranteed to get a taste of the local culture and cuisine that makes Hawaii such a special place.
The Best Plate Lunches on Oahu
When visiting Hawaii, one culinary experience that you shouldn't miss is indulging in a plate lunch. A plate lunch is a traditional Hawaiian meal consisting of a meat entrée, two scoops of rice, and macaroni salad. It's a simple and filling meal that you can find at almost any local restaurant or food truck on the island. Here are some of the best plate lunches on Oahu that you should try.1. Rainbow Drive-In
Rainbow Drive-In is a legendary food spot in Oahu that has been serving plate lunches for over 60 years. Their most popular dish is the mixed plate, which includes teriyaki beef, breaded mahi-mahi, and fried chicken. It's a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds. The macaroni salad is also a must-try as it's creamy and delicious.2. L & L Hawaiian Barbecue
L & L Hawaiian Barbecue is a chain restaurant that serves authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Their plate lunches are generous and affordable, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their BBQ chicken plate is a top-seller, but you can also try their kalua pork or beef teriyaki plate. Don't forget to add some spam musubi as a side dish.3. Ono Seafood
Ono Seafood is a small seafood market that also serves fresh and tasty plate lunches. Their poke bowls are a must-try, but their plate lunches are equally good. Their garlic shrimp plate is a standout as the shrimp is perfectly cooked and the garlic sauce is flavorful without being overpowering. You can also add a scoop of their famous crab macaroni salad to complete your meal.4. Helena's Hawaiian Food
Helena's Hawaiian Food is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving traditional Hawaiian cuisine since 1946. Their plate lunches are simple yet delicious, showcasing the flavors of the islands. Try their pipikaula short ribs or kalua pig with cabbage for an authentic taste of Hawaii. The poi, a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro, is also worth trying.5. Highway Inn
Highway Inn has been a fixture in Oahu since 1947, serving homemade Hawaiian comfort food. Their plate lunches are filling and flavorful, and you can choose from a variety of meats like teriyaki chicken, beef stew, or lau lau. Their macaroni salad is also a standout as it's not too heavy and has the right balance of sweetness and tanginess.6. Kahai Street Kitchen
Kahai Street Kitchen is a food truck that serves creative and modern plate lunches. Their menu changes daily, but you can expect dishes like Korean fried chicken, miso-glazed salmon, or pork belly adobo. Their sides are also unique, such as their furikake fries or truffle mac and cheese.7. Yama's Fish Market
Yama's Fish Market is a seafood market that also serves delicious plate lunches. Their ahi poke bowl is one of the best on the island, but you can also try their grilled opah plate or furikake salmon plate. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.8. Kono's
Kono's is a beachside café that serves breakfast and lunch until 2 pm. Their plate lunches are hearty and flavorful, and you can choose from a variety of meats like garlic shrimp, kalua pork, or teriyaki chicken. Their macaroni salad is also a standout as it's not too creamy and has a hint of sweetness.9. Da Kitchen
Da Kitchen is a casual restaurant that serves Hawaiian comfort food. Their plate lunches are huge, so make sure to come hungry. Try their kalbi ribs or teriyaki chicken plate, and don't forget to add some spam musubi as a side dish. Their macaroni salad is also a favorite among customers.10. Kua Aina
Kua Aina is a burger joint that also serves delicious plate lunches. Their grilled shrimp plate is a standout as the shrimp is fresh and perfectly seasoned. You can also try their teriyaki beef or chicken plate. Their macaroni salad is also worth trying as it's not too heavy and has a hint of spice.In conclusion, trying a plate lunch is a must-do when visiting Oahu. With so many options available, you can't go wrong with any of these restaurants. Just make sure to come hungry and enjoy the flavors of Hawaii.The Ultimate Plate Lunch: A Guide to Oahu's Best OptionsIf you're planning a trip to Oahu, you simply can't miss out on one of the most iconic dishes in Hawaii - the plate lunch. This humble meal has its roots in the plantation era, when workers needed a hearty and satisfying lunch to fuel them through long hours of physical labor. Today, the plate lunch is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its delicious flavors, generous portions, and affordable prices.From Loco Moco to Garlic Shrimp: Plate Lunch Favorites on OahuAt its core, a plate lunch consists of protein (usually meat or fish), rice, and macaroni salad. But within that simple framework, there are endless variations and combinations to try. One classic plate lunch option is the loco moco - a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and smothered in gravy. For seafood lovers, garlic shrimp is a popular choice - plump shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and served over rice. And for those who want a taste of everything, the mixed plate offers a little bit of everything - teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, and beef short ribs all on one plate.Hidden Gems: Underrated Plate Lunch Spots on OahuWhile many visitors flock to the famous plate lunch spots in Waikiki, there are plenty of hidden gems around the island that are worth seeking out. Kapolei is a growing city on the west side of Oahu, and it's home to several delicious plate lunch spots. One standout is Boujie's BBQ, which serves up slow-smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork alongside homemade sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw. Another underrated spot is Laverne's, a family-run restaurant that's been serving up classic plate lunches since 1982.Vegetarian and Vegan Plate Lunch Options on OahuIf you're a vegetarian or vegan, you might assume that plate lunches are off-limits. But fear not - there are plenty of meat-free options to choose from. One popular choice is the tofu plate from Rainbow Drive-In, which features marinated and grilled tofu alongside rice and mac salad. The Beet Box Cafe in Haleiwa offers a vegan take on the classic loco moco, featuring a quinoa and black bean patty topped with mushroom gravy and a fried egg. And for a healthier twist on the plate lunch, try the poke bowl from Ono Seafood - chunks of fresh raw fish served over rice and veggies.Cheap Eats: Delicious Plate Lunches Under $10 on OahuOne of the best things about plate lunches is that they're affordable, making them a great option for budget travelers. Some of the best plate lunch deals can be found at food trucks and roadside stands around the island. At Mike's Huli Chicken in Kahuku, you can get a plate of juicy, flavorful grilled chicken with rice and mac salad for just $8. And at Rainbow Drive-In, a local favorite since 1961, you can get a mixed plate with three different meats for under $10.Local Flavors: Plate Lunches That Showcase Hawaiian Cuisine on OahuWhile plate lunches have their roots in the plantation era, they've also been influenced by the many cultures that make up Hawaii's diverse population. Some plate lunches put a Hawaiian spin on classic dishes - for example, the kalua pork plate from Helena's Hawaiian Food, which features tender, smoky pork cooked in an underground oven. And at Highway Inn, a local institution since 1947, you can try laulau - tender pork and butterfish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection.Food Truck Finds: Best Plate Lunches on Wheels on OahuFood trucks have become a popular way to enjoy plate lunches on Oahu, with dozens of trucks serving up everything from Hawaiian-style BBQ to Korean fried chicken. One standout is Aloha Plate, which gained fame after winning the Food Network's Great Food Truck Race in 2013. Their signature dish is the garlic shrimp plate, which comes with rice and a spicy mayo sauce. Another popular food truck is Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, which has been serving up buttery garlic shrimp since 1993.Classic vs. Modern: Comparing the Best Plate Lunches on OahuWhile many plate lunch spots stick to classic recipes, others are putting their own modern twist on the dish. At The Pig & The Lady, a trendy Vietnamese fusion restaurant in Honolulu, you can try their take on the loco moco - a pork belly patty topped with a quail egg and served with kimchi fried rice. Over in Kailua, Moke's Bread & Breakfast is known for their plate lunch benedicts - eggs Benedict with a Hawaiian twist, featuring kalua pork or Portuguese sausage.Brunch Meets Plate Lunch: Oahu's Best Breakfast-Style OptionsWho says you can't have a plate lunch for breakfast? Several restaurants around Oahu are combining the best of both worlds with breakfast-style plate lunches. Koko Head Cafe in Honolulu is famous for their Chirashi Scramble - a scrambled egg dish with fresh fish, avocado, and pickled veggies served over rice. Another popular spot is Moena Cafe in Kapolei, where you can get a breakfast mixed plate with eggs, bacon, and Portuguese sausage alongside rice and mac salad.Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Plate Lunch Desserts to Try on OahuAfter all those savory flavors, it's time for something sweet. While plate lunch desserts aren't as ubiquitous as the main dishes, there are still plenty of options to choose from. At Rainbow Drive-In, you can top off your meal with a slice of creamy, dreamy coconut cake. Over in Kailua, Cactus Bistro serves up a unique dessert called Bananas Foster Lumpia - crispy fried spring rolls filled with caramelized bananas and drizzled with rum sauce.No matter what your tastes or budget, there's a plate lunch out there for you on Oahu. Whether you stick to the classics or try something new, you're sure to leave satisfied and with a newfound appreciation for this beloved Hawaiian tradition.
The Best Plate Lunches on Oahu
Overview
Plate lunches are a popular meal in Hawaii, and Oahu has some of the best places to enjoy them. A plate lunch typically consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and a choice of meat or fish. These meals are filling, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy local cuisine.Pros of Best Plate Lunch Oahu
- Large portions
- Affordable prices
- Fresh and delicious ingredients
- Wide variety of meat and fish options
- Great for takeout or outdoor dining
Cons of Best Plate Lunch Oahu
- High in calories and carbohydrates
- May not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans
- Some locations may have long lines or wait times
- Can be heavy and may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions
Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range | Menu Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gina's BBQ | Wahiawa | $ | Kalbi ribs, chicken katsu, fried rice |
| Rainbow Drive-In | Kapahulu | $$ | Teriyaki beef, mahi-mahi, chili and rice |
| Giovanni's Shrimp Truck | North Shore | $ | Garlic shrimp, spicy shrimp, lemon butter shrimp |
| Ono Seafood | Kapahulu | $$ | Furikake ahi, poke bowls, garlic shrimp plate |
| Helena's Hawaiian Food | Kalihi | $$$ | Kalua pork, laulau, squid luau |
Overall, plate lunches are a must-try when visiting Oahu. With so many delicious options to choose from, you're sure to find a meal that satisfies your taste buds and fills you up. Just be aware of the potential cons, such as high calorie and carbohydrate content, and long lines at some popular locations.
Discover the Best Plate Lunch in Oahu
Welcome to our guide on the best plate lunch spots in Oahu. Whether you are a local or visiting the island, plate lunches are a must-try when it comes to Hawaiian cuisine. These hearty meals typically consist of a protein, rice, and macaroni salad, providing a filling and delicious meal perfect for any time of day.
If you are looking for a classic plate lunch spot, look no further than Rainbow Drive-In. This iconic restaurant has been serving up plate lunches since 1961 and is a favorite among locals. Their most popular dish is the mixed plate, which includes teriyaki beef, chicken, and mahi-mahi served with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad.
For those looking for a healthier option, Ono Seafood is the place to go. This family-owned restaurant is known for its fresh poke bowls and grilled fish plates. Their poke bowls come in a variety of flavors, including spicy ahi and shoyu salmon, and are made with locally sourced seafood.
If you want to experience a fusion of Hawaiian and Korean cuisine, head to Gina's BBQ. This small restaurant in Honolulu serves up delicious plates of kalbi ribs, chicken katsu, and kimchi fried rice. Their portions are generous, and their flavors are bold and delicious.
No guide to plate lunches in Oahu would be complete without mentioning L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. This chain restaurant has locations all over the island and is known for its authentic Hawaiian dishes. Their menu includes everything from loco mocos to Spam musubis, and their portions are always generous.
If you find yourself in the North Shore, be sure to stop by Ted's Bakery. This local favorite is famous for its pies, but they also serve up some of the best plate lunches on the island. Their garlic shrimp plate is a must-try and comes with two scoops of rice and a green salad.
For a unique twist on the classic plate lunch, head to Da Spot. This restaurant in Honolulu offers a build-your-own plate lunch option, allowing you to choose your protein, rice, and sides. They also have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including tofu and tempeh plates.
If you are in search of a seafood plate lunch, look no further than Nico's Pier 38. This casual restaurant overlooks the harbor and serves up some of the freshest seafood on the island. Their fish plates come with your choice of fish, rice, and a side salad or slaw.
For those looking for a more upscale plate lunch experience, head to Helena's Hawaiian Food. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946 and is a favorite among locals. Their menu includes everything from laulau to pipikaula, and their portions are perfect for sharing.
No matter where you go for your plate lunch in Oahu, you are sure to find a delicious and filling meal. From classic mixed plates to unique fusion cuisine, there is something for everyone on the island. So grab a fork and dig in!
Thank you for reading our guide to the best plate lunch spots in Oahu. We hope you found it helpful and that you are inspired to try some new restaurants during your next visit to the island. Mahalo!
People Also Ask About Best Plate Lunch Oahu
What is a plate lunch?
A plate lunch is a popular Hawaiian dish that typically consists of two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad, and a meat entrée such as teriyaki beef, chicken katsu, or kalua pork.
Where can I find the best plate lunch in Oahu?
Oahu has many great options for plate lunches, but some of the most highly recommended include:
- Giovanni's Shrimp Truck - famous for their garlic shrimp plate lunch
- Rainbow Drive-In - a classic spot serving up plate lunches since 1961
- L&L Hawaiian Barbecue - a chain restaurant with multiple locations on Oahu
- Helena's Hawaiian Food - a family-owned restaurant known for their traditional Hawaiian dishes
What is the most popular plate lunch in Oahu?
The most popular plate lunch in Oahu varies depending on who you ask, but some of the most commonly mentioned options include:
- Garlic shrimp plate lunch from Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
- Loco Moco plate lunch from L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
- Kalua pork plate lunch from Helena's Hawaiian Food
- Teriyaki beef plate lunch from Rainbow Drive-In
How much does a plate lunch cost in Oahu?
The price of a plate lunch in Oahu can range from around $7 to $15, depending on where you go and what you order. Some places may offer larger or more expensive options as well.