In Hawaiʻi, the plate lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol rooted in the Islands’ plantation era. Originating from the practice of workers from diverse backgrounds sharing home-cooked meals, the plate lunch represents a unique fusion of flavors that define Hawaiʻi’s distinct cuisine. Today, both locals and visitors flock to various restaurants to enjoy this hearty dish, each with their own take on the classic components.
On the Garden Isle of Kauaʻi, several eateries have made a name for themselves by serving delicious variations of the iconic plate lunch. HAWAIʻI Magazine readers have highlighted some of the best spots to indulge in this beloved dish.
First on the list is Kōloa Fish Market, nestled in Old Kōloa Town. Known for its fresh fish and poke, this local favorite offers a diverse plate lunch menu featuring fried chicken, Korean chicken, and traditional Hawaiian options like kālua pig and lau lau. For the very hungry, the Hawaiian combo includes both proteins, and daily specials provide even more temptations for patrons. You can explore their offerings at koloafishmarket.com.
Next up is Pono Fish Market in Kapaʻa, a no-frills establishment celebrated for its generous portions. This casual spot allows customers to build their own plates from a selection of daily entrees, showcasing local favorites such as kālua pig, lau lau, and shoyu chicken. The straightforward approach and hearty meals keep customers coming back for more, and you can visit their website at ponomarketkauai.com to learn more.
Located on Kauaʻi’s North Shore is Hanalei Taro & Juice Co., which has been run by the Haraguchi family since the 1920s. This farm-to-table food truck, launched in 2000, emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their plate lunches feature a choice of poi or rice (or both), taro macaroni salad, lomi lomi salmon, and a delectable taro-based dessert for a true taste of Hawaiian culture. More about their offerings can be found at hanaleitaro.com.
For those looking for a quick bite upon arriving on the island, Mark’s Place in Līhuʻe is a must-stop location. Just a short drive from the airport, this popular takeout eatery serves hearty plate lunches complete with generous portions, desserts, and omiyage (gifts). Notably, the mixed plate features chicken katsu, teriyaki beef, and beef stew, all accompanied by rice and potato macaroni salad—sure to satisfy any craving. Visit marksplacekauai.com for more information.
Sueoka Snack Shop offers a more hidden gem experience tucked away in Sueoka Market in Kōloa. Usually, a line of customers can be seen eagerly waiting at the window for their turn. Known for plate lunches that include options like hamburger steak, mochiko chicken, and fried mahi mahi, Sueoka also has chili bowls and weekly specials, creating a variety of choices for patrons. Head to sueokastore.com to see their menu.
Finally, for those who appreciate a versatile menu, Kīlauea Fish Market provides an array of offerings in the historic Kīlauea Plantation Center. In addition to their popular poke bowls and ʻahi wraps, the plate lunch selection showcases items like Korean barbecue chicken, Hawaiian chili pepper pork, grilled fish, and garlic shrimp. They even cater to vegetarians with a plate featuring tofu, pinto beans, and local greens. After enjoying a satisfying meal, patrons can treat themselves to shave ice from the market’s patio. Visit kilaueafishmarket.com for more details.
Kauaʻi is rich with restaurants that honor the traditions of Hawaiian cuisine through their plate lunches, making it easy for anyone to find their perfect bowl of local flavors.
image source from：hawaiimagazine
