Where to Find the Best Plate Lunch on the Big Island

The plate lunch is more than just a meal in Hawaiʻi; it's a cultural institution served in a takeout container. A hearty, delicious, and affordable window into the islands' plantation past, it's a must-try experience for any visitor. Forget fine dining for a moment and embrace the simple perfection of two scoops of rice, one scoop of creamy macaroni salad, and a generous serving of a savory main dish.

On the Big Island, with its diverse communities and deep agricultural roots, the plate lunch tradition is alive and well. From roadside stands to hole-in-the-wall diners, you'll find countless spots serving up their unique take on this local classic. This guide will take you on a culinary tour of the island's best, helping you navigate the menus and find your new favorite grindz.

What is a Plate Lunch?

The standard plate lunch formula is beautifully simple: two scoops of white rice, one scoop of mayonnaise-based macaroni salad, and an entrée. The entrées reflect Hawaiʻi's multicultural heritage, a delicious blend of Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Chinese, Portuguese, and Hawaiian cuisines.

Common plate lunch offerings include:

• Chicken Katsu: A Japanese-style breaded and fried chicken cutlet, often served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce.
• Kalbi Ribs: Korean-style marinated and grilled short ribs.
• Shoyu Chicken: Chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based broth.
• Loco Moco: A true local creation—a hamburger patty over rice, topped with a fried egg and smothered in brown gravy. (A plate lunch superstar!)
• Kalua Pig: Smoky, shredded pork traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu.
• Lau Lau: Pork and butterfish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed until tender.
• Teriyaki Beef/Chicken: Thinly sliced meat marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce and grilled.

This meal evolved from the hearty, portable lunches packed by plantation workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was fuel for a hard day's work, and that spirit of providing a satisfying, filling meal remains central to the plate lunch today.

Hilo and East Hawaiʻi: The Heart of Plate Lunch Country

Hilo is arguably the epicenter of classic, old-school plate lunch culture on the Big Island. The rainy city's vibe lends itself perfectly to these comforting, hearty meals.

Cafe 100

No discussion of plate lunches on the Big Island is complete without mentioning Cafe 100. They claim to be the inventors of the Loco Moco back in 1949, and it remains their signature dish. They offer over 30 varieties of the iconic meal, but you can't go wrong with the original. It's a Hilo institution, always busy with locals, and a perfect first stop on your plate lunch journey.

Hilo Lunch Shop

For a taste of tradition, Hilo Lunch Shop is essential. This small, unassuming spot has been serving the community for generations. Their bentos and plate lunches are legendary. The menu changes daily, often written on a whiteboard, featuring classics like shoyu chicken, fried noodles, and their famous corned beef hash patties. Get there early; they often sell out.

Verna's Drive-In

Located in the small town of Honomū on the Hāmākua Coast just north of Hilo, Verna's is a classic drive-in (the local term for a casual takeout restaurant) that has been a favorite for decades. Their plate lunches are straightforward, delicious, and satisfying. It's the perfect place to stop for a bite before or after visiting ʻAkaka Falls.

Kailua-Kona and West Hawaiʻi: Sun, Surf, and Grindz

The sunny Kona side has its own stellar lineup of plate lunch spots, often with a focus on fresh fish to go along with the classics.

Broke Da Mouth Grindz

As the name implies, this place serves food so good it will break your mouth. Specializing in Filipino-Hawaiian fusion and classic garlic furikake chicken, their portions are generous and packed with flavor. The line can get long, but it's a testament to the quality. This is a must-visit for foodies in Kona.

Big Island Grill

Known for its massive portions and a wide-ranging menu that feels like a local diner, Big Island Grill is a Kona staple. While they have a full sit-down restaurant, their plate lunches are a huge draw. From traditional adobo to a fantastic chicken katsu, it's a reliable choice for a filling and tasty meal that won't break the bank.

Da Poke Shack

While famous for its award-winning poke, Da Poke Shack also offers hot plates that are among the best in Kona. Their lau lau and kalua pig plates are phenomenal, made with care and tradition. Combining a scoop of their fresh poke with a hot plate lunch is a pro move for a truly epic local-style feast.

Waimea and North Hawaiʻi: Upcountry Favorites

The cool, green pastures of Waimea are home to paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture and some seriously hearty appetites. The plate lunch spots here are known for their generous servings.

Hawaiian Style Cafe

With locations in both Waimea and Hilo, Hawaiian Style Cafe is famous for its colossal portions. Their motto is "where the locals eat," and it's true. While they are renowned for breakfast, their plate lunches are equally impressive. Be prepared to be served a mountain of food—a single plate can often feed two people. Their loco moco and kalua pig are legendary.

Earl's Waimea

This deli and takeout counter inside the main grocery store in Waimea is a local secret. Earl's offers fantastic daily specials, sandwiches, and of course, excellent plate lunches. It's a great place to grab a high-quality, convenient meal to take to the beach or up to a scenic lookout. The quality is a step above your average takeout joint.

The Unwritten Rules of Plate Lunch

To enjoy your plate lunch experience like a local, keep a few things in mind:

• The Drink: The unofficial-official beverage to accompany a plate lunch is POG (Passion-Orange-Guava juice) or another local fruit drink like guava or lilikoʻi passionfruit.
• Where to Eat: Plate lunches are designed for takeout. The best way to eat one is at a beach park, a scenic lookout, or even in your car while enjoying the view. Part of the experience is finding your own perfect spot.
• Customization: While the classic combo is sacred, many places now offer options. You can often substitute a green salad for the mac salad, or brown rice for the white rice, sometimes for a small upcharge. Don't be afraid to ask.
• Embrace the Mix: Don't be afraid to let your mac salad touch your rice and your entrée's sauce run all over everything. It's all part of the flavor experience!

From the plantation fields to the modern-day food truck, the plate lunch is a delicious thread connecting Hawaiʻi's past and present. Exploring the Big Island's plate lunch scene is more than just a culinary quest; it's a way to connect with the local culture and taste the true aloha spirit. For more ideas on how to structure your culinary adventures, check out our 7-Day Big Island Itinerary.

Related Posts:

• Find the Perfect Scoop: A Guide to the Best Shave Ice on the Big Island (/blog/best-shave-ice-big-island)
• A Food Lover's Guide to Big Island Farmers Markets (/blog/big-island-farmers-markets)
• Tasting Hawaiʻi: A Beginner's Guide to Local Food (/blog/guide-to-local-food-hawaii)