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Start a Top 5 for Plate LunchEditor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Honolulu Magazine (Hale ʻAina Awards) and Honolulu Magazine (Frolic Hawaiʻi). Updated August 2026.
Helena's Hawaiian Food · Kalihi
2025 Hale ʻAina Gold for Best Hawaiian. The James Beard-honored Kalihi shop open since 1946. Pipi kaula short ribs, kalua pig, lomi salmon; Menu D eats like the definitive mixed plate.
Rainbow Drive-In · Kapahulu
Frolic readers' #2 loco moco (14%) and the island's defining drive-in since 1961. The mixed plate with gravy and the BBQ steak plate are the local lingua franca.
Highway Inn Kaka'ako · Kakaʻako
2025 Hale ʻAina Silver for Best Hawaiian. The Toguchi family's 1947 Waipahu original went to Kakaʻako with laulau, pipi kaula, squid lūʻau and poi intact.
Liliha Bakery · Liliha
Frolic readers' #1 classic loco moco (21%) and Best of HONOLULU 2025's Best Bakery winner. The charbroiled patty and brown gravy at the counter is the benchmark most Oʻahu diners are chasing.
Richie's Drive Inn · Kalihi
Frolic's Best Kalihi Plate Lunch top pick. Carl Shiroma's definitive Kalihi call for the boneless chicken plate with gravy.