Hilo Lunch Shop
421 Kalanikoa St, Hilo, HI, 96720
Hilo Lunch Shop Menu
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Address :
421 Kalanikoa St
Hilo, HI, 96720 - Phone (808) 935-8273
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Amanda Z.
Woo hoo okazuya! I LOVE Hilo Lunch Shop! Especially the nori chicken...soooo good!!! Wide variety of musubis (plain, nori, spam, hot dog), cone sushi, and the normal smattering of okazuya faves. Also recently tried the shoyu chicken, hamburger patty (ooo good gravy), fish cake, omelet, mac salad, fried spam, shrimp tempura and more. Gotta go early before they run out! It's def. worth a visit (or two, or more!!).
(5)Janice H.
Sum it up in 3 points, Miss J: 1) Affordable, extremely delicious okazuya (delicatessen) offering local-style Japanese/Hawaiian foods that you can buy a la carte (by the piece) 2) Hours: Tues - Sat, 5:30 AM - 1 PM. If can, come here before 10 or 11 AM before the lunch crowd forms & before all da good stuff goes. 3) Bring cash. Haven't read any reviews where they take credit card & I'll verify this when I go back home soon. ---------- Definitely the best okazuya in Hilo (as c-a p. so expertly pointed out)! :) For the newbies, okazuya is a Japanese term broken down as follows: okazu = side dishes ya = store A store (delicatessen, to be exact) where local delicacies are prepared and laid out, so the customer can pick and choose what they want to buy (À la carte, as you haoles/mainlanders call it). Items are normally priced by the piece, so watch out! You may find that you want to sample each and everything of what they have to offer. Easy foa rack up one bill at dis place. According to this old Honolulu Star-Bulletin article, okazuya stems from Hawai'i's old sugar plantation days when the Japanese women used to prepare "portable lunches" (bento) for the single men in camp. Whatever the case, okazuyas are a dying breed with many closing down from the Big Island to Honolulu. archives.starbulletin.co… Nori chicken is winnahs! Cone sushi is winnahs! Korean chicken is winnahs! Mostly everything in here is winnahs! I have fond memories of my faddah (dad) taking me here really early in the morning (6:30 AM) to get breakfast; this was his favorite place to go in town outside of Ken's House of Pancakes or the Firehouse Restaurant in Hilo. His favorite was the cone sushi. Come here before lunch hour because the line starts flowing out there door. This place is a favorite for all kines of people - construction workers to state workers to surfers. If you going go beach, plan on a long road trip, or going visit one dear aunty/relative, stop by here for your grinds. Anyone's face would beam up to know that you brought dem something from hea. :)
(5)Leanne L.
Good food... But be ready to order when it's your turn... And don't waste their time, the ladies may give you a nasty look...
(2)Kevin S.
Hilo Lunch Shop is my favorite okazuya in Hawaii. Make sure you order two of everything, and enjoy your bento at Hilo's bayfront. Strengths: - Food - Location - Friendly staff - Accepts credit cards - Cheap Weakness: - Closed during holidays
(5)Fran C.
I'm not gonna lie to you.....hopping between islands several times a week is a grind! But one of the "bennys" about traveling, is getting to eat a different places. This past week I had to go to the big island on Monday, & Wednesday. On Monday, after driving back from Kamuela to Hilo, I made my way to the Hilo Lunch Shop around 2 PM. Guess what??? They were closed........can you say "Loser!" Lol!!! Well, I hate to lose and be turned away, so on Wednesday I made my way back again! And guess what??? WINNAS bruddah!!!!! I been to this place several times..........but haven't been here recently. I remembered this place was run by a nice local family, and that the food served here (okazuya style) was all so ono!!! Well, nothing has changed.........in fact, I think the food was even better than I remembered it to be! Only problem with ordering okazuya style food......well, at least for me........is that my eyes are BIGGER, than my stomach! When I walked in, I just started ordering up, and to be truthful, I was trying to hold myself back, cuz there were so many onolishes stuff over there. I ordered the following that day....... 1. Ume Musubi 2. Fried Chicken (2 piece) 3. Nori Fried Chicken (1 piece) 4. Shrimp Tempura 5. Egg Omlet or Egg Foo Young 6. Veggie Temura 7. And to wash all of this down.............a bottled water. All of this for $11.57, not bad for okazuya. I must say, what I really liked about Hilo Lunch Shop's food, was that most of the items I picked up like the - fried chicken, nori fried chicken, & shimp tempura, was that the food was still kinda warm/hot. I found that kinda cool, as if you know about okazuya.........most times the food is served cold, as they usually cook the food early in the morning, then sell it through out the day........when they sell out the items, then that's it. The fried chicken I ate was all so crispy, and warm. When I bit into it, it squirted out it's delicious juices, and the skin was all so crunchy! The fried chicken was not oily at all. Ummmmmm nom, nom, nom, nom!!!! Whoa, feel like I gotta go back again! Lol!!! Lots of parking in the private parking lot. There is no seating inside, as this is a grab & go kinda place. Very popular with the locals, and it was quite busy on Wednesday (the day I was there). Check 'em out gang.........no can go wrong!
(5)Chad Y.
Hilo Lunch Shop is one of those okazuya's that take you to a bygone era where you purchase those tasty noshes to go with your rice and let's just say...a lot of things are fried. Or not... When we asked people what to get from Hilo Lunch Shop, one thing kept coming up over and over: the Mustard Cabbage Maki Sushi. It definitely was different and something to try out, but was it that much better than a traditional maki sushi roll? No, but definitely worth trying and I have to say better than their maki sushi roll. Eggplant is supposed to be healthy right? Well, what if you add a piece of spam, tempura batter it, and then fry it? Not so healthy anymore. It definitely was different and very filling. Flavor is definitely something acquired and on the heavier side. The fried chicken was good, but check out their nori chicken. It was different and added a nice briny flavor to the traditional saltiness you would expect. The tempura is definitely respectable and nothing to sneer at. Service is generally quick and the line moved pretty quickly even though there were certain people buying up a storm. Prices are very reasonable (by Honolulu standards, never really tried to compare it in Hilo though) and you can definitely get your bang for your buck here. Word of advice: Go early, things can sell out pretty quickly and you definitely do not want to be the one to not get some tasty goodness!
(4)Tony L.
Hilo Lunch Shop was our first stop when we got to Hilo from our hotel in Waikoloa. It is kind of hidden about a block away from the main highway, but it was easy to find with GPS. We got there a little before lunch time, but the line was 8 or 9 deep already. Luckily, all of the food is prepared already, and they have 3 or 4 people helping you at the same time. Our wait time was only about 5 minutes in line. We ordered: 2 Shrimp tempura: not bad, but by the time we got to our picnic area, it was a little cold and soggy 2 Spam musubi: good, and pretty large-sized 2 Fishcakes: not bad (a little too much cake part: wish it had more fish) 4 chicken nori: this was really good. Although the pieces of chicken (thigh meat?) were small, I liked the addition of the nori wrap around it. 1 beansprout salad: good (got to have some veggies, right?) All this food was boxed up for only $13, which is a pretty good deal. We were going to stop by before heading to the airport the next day, but we thought we were running a little late and decided to head straight to the airport (bad decision: we didn't realize how easy it would be to refurn the car and go through security at Hilo Airport). If you are in Hilo, definitely stop by here for breakfast (I believe that they open at 5 AM) or lunch for some good and cheap food.
(4)Sarah M.
The ladies at hilo lunch shop are amazing, always so happy to help me and the food is so ono!!! I especially I've the laulau...
(5)Benjamin A.
First off, if you come to Hilo and want grab some food for a sit down lunch at a park, this is one place you can stop at and grab plate or even a box. Gotta a lot of selections in Local food and can pick and choose you choices. Watch picking, cause it can turn from a plate to a box shortly. Also you want to get there early, because thing can run out and fast as they make them. Overall service is great and is fast, be able to give your order as fast as they put it in your box or plate. This is another place to stop and grab something to eat.
(5)Zoey P.
Pros: The salads and boiled peanuts. Eh: The vegetarian fried things were a little lack luster and at some point I didn't know exactly what I was eating. I will definitely go back for the salads though! Apple maps also doesn't have its correct location.
(3)Lynette T.
Out of the three bento shops that we visited while in Hilo, this was our favorite. In addition to the Japanese items, there was Hawaiian food too. We sure stuck out as tourists here. "What's this? What's that?" I saw a kamaboko (Japanese fishcake) & greens mix. The lady said it was (a long Hawaiian named dish) called "pipi"-something yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… She gave me a sample and it was so delicious, I ordered a double serving. My favorite lomi salmon was also in the case, so I doubled up on that as well. yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… My husband sure loaded up his lunchbox! yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… Funny thing about the item on the bottom right. He asked if those were "Inari" sushi. They were a lot larger than those I usually make and the ones we buy back home. One of the impatient regulars behind him piped up with, "No! That's "cone" sushi!" with an eyeroll that clearly signaled she was thinking, "Stoopid!" We took all this food and enjoyed it on a stone pier at a beach on the Kona side. We wanted to watch some monk seals at play, but they were all MIA. Aw well, food was good and the scenery was lovely!
(4)Joyce B.
One of my favorite places in Hilo. We made a stop here right before our road trip south. Luckily, there was only one person ahead of us in line. By the time we were done with our order, the line was literally out the door. The vegetable tempura was a delicious huge mound of fried veggies...Nori chicken and Korean chicken were both good. We also enjoyed the cone sushi and fish cake. For a medium sized box full of goodies, we spent around $17. For the variety and amount of food we got, I think I got my money's worth. Any of the fried food is definitely best when consumed right away. Otherwise, don't be surprised if it's a little soggy after a little while. Nonetheless, I enjoyed my food and I will definitely make another stop here on my next vacation. The only downside is they close pretty early.
(4)Tiffany C.
This place was good! Here's my overall experience: Positives (+) (+) nori chicken was really good (+) they have this Teri beef sushi type roll which was really good (+) corn beef hash was good (+) affordable prices (+) fast service (+) good variety of food (+) chicken was really good I'd definitely come here again. Great for a quick bite.
(4)Jacob N.
One of the many delicious okazuya in Hilo is Hilo Lunch Shop. They've got a pretty big selection of items, and everything I've tasted was delish! I especially enjoyed the sweet potato tempura, and the nori chicken. They also have some hot and spicy boiled peanuts that are a great buy. The person helping me was pretty courteous and helpful, but some of my other friends who had other people helping them said that they got some pretty grumpy people. The Good: Tasty food, low prices, big selection, Hot and Spicy boiled peanuts! The Bad: Not in Honolulu, some workers are kinda grumpy
(4)Anne C.
Good okazuya food. Order ahead so you don't have to wait in line. My daughter and I love the ogo salad. My friend from Oahu loves the warabi salad and fish cake. My son always gets the spam musubi and nori chicken. They have a wide variety of food to please all kinds of people. Great place to get a picnic meal. Go early! The food sells out quickly.
(3)Dean I.
Okazu style food. Its popular with locals because of the good value and friendly staff, also because of the great food of course! The food here is never greasy and the ordering is fast paced. Its busy here from opening to closing, the parking lot is usually filled whenever I drive by.
(5)Eric D.
Absolutely amazing food. BUT YOU GOTTA GO EARLY. They often run out of things because they are so popular. The line moves rather slowly but that gives you a good amount of time to figure out what you want. I highly recommend this place. It also has the hole-in-the-wall feel, which is something that u always desire. If you are looking for local, Japanese-Hawaiian food that's from "grandma's kitchen" go ahead and stop by Hilo Lunch Shop.
(5)Taryn L.
Located in the quiet town of Hilo, Hilo Lunch Shop is one of my favorite okazuyas. They offer delicious entrees that you can choose from to include in your personal bento. I'm a simple (or picky, depending on who you ask) eater. I went with the nori chicken, hot dog musubi, vegetable tempura, cone sushi, and hash patty. The hash patty was good - it was fluffy and the standard okazuya fare. The same goes for the cone sushi - standard item in an okazuya shop (not to take away from the fact that it is delicious; I was always a sucker for sushi rice). The hot dog musubi was more unique to this shop and was tasty - I love the combo of hot dog, takuan, and furikake. The nori chicken was great because it wasn't oily and seasoned well (definitely not the bland piece of chicken I was expecting). It was a perfect portion size too. However, my favorite item was the vegetable tempura. I was lucky enough to get a fresh piece, so it was perfectly crisp and not oily and/or soggy. I loved it. It reminded me of my favorite okazuya when I was growing up (they closed, unfortunately). I have to admit that I wish it had a bit more seasoning, but the texture was spot on. What really makes me give them the 5 stars is the customer service. There was a line when I got there, but I was expecting that. However, while I was waiting in line, I kept looking and I couldn't see any vegetable tempura available (I was really looking forward to the tempura). When I got to order, I asked about it and the employee said that they were currently out...then she said she'll go in the back to check for me. Mid rush. For some, this may be expected as customer service, but for me, it was a big deal because I really was looking forward to trying their tempura. Lo and behold...she comes back out with one piece of freshly fried tempura. I was estactic. And the tempura certainly exceeded expectations. Totally. Worth. The. Wait.
(5)Austin N.
Overall impression: Outstanding taste and great value for what you get. Avg price: depending on how much you eat, $6-10 for lunch, ~$1/piece of food Tips: -come early! food runs out by 11/12ish Positives: -the food is just outstanding -cheap Negatives: -only open for breakfast or lunch -food runs out -long line (which shows how good it is) -probably not the healthiest (but seriously, who cares?) There have been more than enough reviews on here to convince you of how great this place is. Let me just say that I ordered about 12 different things and they were all excellent. In fact, many were better than I've had at other okazuyas. And very cheap for what you get. I try to come here whenever I come to Hilo. Just bee sure to get there early.
(5)Edwin N.
This place is one of my favorite okazuya joints. If you can get there early, then that's great for you because the line gets long real quick real fast. Regardless if there's a lot of people, don't get discouraged, the food is worth waiting in line for. Customer service is awesome. About 5-6 associates helping multiple customers at once to alleviate the line. When my wife and I get the chance to hit that spot, we get the box lunch. We usually get the Spam musubis, hot dog musubis, Nori Chicken, Shrimp Tempura, Hash patties, and Yakitori Chicken. There are so much good choices! All that food goes a long way. I highly recommend Hilo Lunch Shop! Good local food with great customer service!
(5)Donna M.
Our flight got in at a crazy early time--think 6am, and the first thing on my mind was food! I was on the hunt to get my hands on some warabi salad, but it was a little too early in the morning, and the warabi wasn't out yet. All good though, since we were already there, how could I say no to all the other okazuya goodies to choose from?! Talk about goodies--there are so many delectable looking items out on the okazuya line that it's easy to go overboard while ordering. My parents picked up a bento to share between the two of them for $5. Me and the BF however, went a little nuts and got a ton of food for $15! My favorites include the nori chicken, nishime, corn beef hash patties, and the spam musubi! Nori chicken is now easily one of my favorite foods! Super easy to eat, simple and tasty. Easily one of my new favorites! I loved the light texture of the corn beef hash patties too, even though I'm not typically a huge fan of corned beef! I loved how light it was, and easy it was to eat in patty form. The spam musubis are absolutely heavenly, and I loved how fluffy and light the rice was. Pass on the cucumber kimchi though, this was just OK compared to the amazingness of everything else. Even at a super early hour, the line here was real! I always get nervous at okazuya joints, and this was no exception. With so many hungry people behind me, and so many goodies laid out before me, oh mannnnnn. The ladies here are super efficient though, and get through with orders quick! Definitely a must visit if in Hilo!
(5)Garret U.
This place is great for picking up a quick to-go lunch. So many choices to choose from. If you're the indecisive type then just do what I do, while waiting in line listen to what other people are ordering and get the same thing. I did that and ended up with an ume musubi ($0.85), nori chicken ($1), vegetable tempura ($0.95), sweet potato tempura ($0.90), and long rice ($1.45). Total with tax, $5.36. Not bad for the amount of food (see picture). As you can see, you order everything a la cart. If you're not careful you can end up with a feast suitable for a small army, so try not to get carried away. But either way, everything I've tried there I liked. My favorite is probably the nori chicken. The vegetable tempura was also very good. I recommend starting off with those two and then just go from there. Have fun!
(5)R. B.
You haven't visited Hawaii or Hilo without coming here for some great local food.
(5)Brennan T.
Few restaurants get five stars from me, but there's something so nostalgic and enjoyable about Hilo Lunch Shop that I must extend a hand of generosity. From order-by-the-piece shrimp and fish tempura to spam musubi, warabi salad, and fried chicken, Hilo Lunch Shop boasts bento-style foods put into a box for enjoyment with family and friends or just by yourself. Checkout a great review by Corey Masao Johnson: thehawaiiherald.com/2014… .
(5)Bev W.
Went to Hilo Lunch Shop today. Wow what a change. The food is soooo BAD. The cone sushi is really junk. The fried chicken was fried so long it was unedible. The mac salad had so much mayonaise it tasted awful. The nishime had 2 carrots, 2 potatoes, 2 beans and the rest chopped aburage. Was it supposed to be Umani?? A few weeks back they forgot to put vinegar in the sushi and did not rinse the mustard cabbage koko it was unedible. It was sooo salty. What happened???? Not going back for a long time.
(2)Jere S.
I visit Hilo every year and make it a point to grab my food from here. Then we go to Banyan Drive, sit by the water and eat. Very relaxing. Also stop here before leaving for the airport. Very convenient to pick up our food, around the corner we gas up the rental car, cross the highway to Airport road, very convenient. Great sushi too.
(5)Arlene H.
we got the nori wrapped chicken, but everything else that they're known for was all gone by the time the lunch hour was ending. sigh. maybe i just missed what made them so amazingly yummy... the prices were really affordable. they people working there were super friendly. at closing time, they even gave us a few free rolls that they themselves did not want to take home (they have it everyday!) this is definitely one of those places you grab food and go.
(3)Fran C.
I'm not gonna lie to you.....hopping between islands several times a week is a grind! But one of the "bennys" about traveling, is getting to eat a different places. This past week I had to go to the big island on Monday, & Wednesday. On Monday, after driving back from Kamuela to Hilo, I made my way to the Hilo Lunch Shop around 2 PM. Guess what??? They were closed........can you say "Loser!" Lol!!! Well, I hate to lose and be turned away, so on Wednesday I made my way back again! And guess what??? WINNAS bruddah!!!!! I been to this place several times..........but haven't been here recently. I remembered this place was run by a nice local family, and that the food served here (okazuya style) was all so ono!!! Well, nothing has changed.........in fact, I think the food was even better than I remembered it to be! Only problem with ordering okazuya style food......well, at least for me........is that my eyes are BIGGER, than my stomach! When I walked in, I just started ordering up, and to be truthful, I was trying to hold myself back, cuz there were so many onolishes stuff over there. I ordered the following that day....... 1. Ume Musubi 2. Fried Chicken (2 piece) 3. Nori Fried Chicken (1 piece) 4. Shrimp Tempura 5. Egg Omlet or Egg Foo Young 6. Veggie Temura 7. And to wash all of this down.............a bottled water. All of this for $11.57, not bad for okazuya. I must say, what I really liked about Hilo Lunch Shop's food, was that most of the items I picked up like the - fried chicken, nori fried chicken, & shimp tempura, was that the food was still kinda warm/hot. I found that kinda cool, as if you know about okazuya.........most times the food is served cold, as they usually cook the food early in the morning, then sell it through out the day........when they sell out the items, then that's it. The fried chicken I ate was all so crispy, and warm. When I bit into it, it squirted out it's delicious juices, and the skin was all so crunchy! The fried chicken was not oily at all. Ummmmmm nom, nom, nom, nom!!!! Whoa, feel like I gotta go back again! Lol!!! Lots of parking in the private parking lot. There is no seating inside, as this is a grab & go kinda place. Very popular with the locals, and it was quite busy on Wednesday (the day I was there). Check 'em out gang.........no can go wrong!
(5)Chad Y.
Hilo Lunch Shop is one of those okazuya's that take you to a bygone era where you purchase those tasty noshes to go with your rice and let's just say...a lot of things are fried. Or not... When we asked people what to get from Hilo Lunch Shop, one thing kept coming up over and over: the Mustard Cabbage Maki Sushi. It definitely was different and something to try out, but was it that much better than a traditional maki sushi roll? No, but definitely worth trying and I have to say better than their maki sushi roll. Eggplant is supposed to be healthy right? Well, what if you add a piece of spam, tempura batter it, and then fry it? Not so healthy anymore. It definitely was different and very filling. Flavor is definitely something acquired and on the heavier side. The fried chicken was good, but check out their nori chicken. It was different and added a nice briny flavor to the traditional saltiness you would expect. The tempura is definitely respectable and nothing to sneer at. Service is generally quick and the line moved pretty quickly even though there were certain people buying up a storm. Prices are very reasonable (by Honolulu standards, never really tried to compare it in Hilo though) and you can definitely get your bang for your buck here. Word of advice: Go early, things can sell out pretty quickly and you definitely do not want to be the one to not get some tasty goodness!
(4)Arlene H.
we got the nori wrapped chicken, but everything else that they're known for was all gone by the time the lunch hour was ending. sigh. maybe i just missed what made them so amazingly yummy... the prices were really affordable. they people working there were super friendly. at closing time, they even gave us a few free rolls that they themselves did not want to take home (they have it everyday!) this is definitely one of those places you grab food and go.
(3)David C.
Sorry, but I don't know how this place got 4.5 stars, the food was pretty awful. The nori chicken was highly reviewed but I thought it was borderline at best.
(1)Terry K.
Yelp Challenge 365 # 151/365 So, I'm making my way back to Honolulu, heading to the Hilo Airport...... with much time to spare. My brother (my driver to the airport) suggests I stop for some food on the run... and we decided to stop at Hilo Lunch Shop. It's been years since I've stopped here. You need to go there EARLY in the morning. By 10 am much of their delicious food is GONE. I am checking in on my Iphone and my brother heads towards the deli... he says! "Hey! Look at the sticker on the door!!!! It's a YELP sticker.... Yep! Hilo Lunch Shop is loved by Yelpers throughout. Well, deservingly so because the food is good! Not too sweet, not to oily.... okay for a box of food to take on the run... A little trivia and a jewel of knowlege that you may need to use one day....one day..... and that is: Hilo, HI is the hometown for fishcake. They had Amano Fishcake (now sold in retail stores throughout the state, including Costco), Sumida Fishcake (no longer available as the family retired and none of the kids wanted to run the factory ;() and then, there is Hilo Lunch Shop. A long way to go and a longer story to tell but I went to Hilo Lunch Shop specifically for its fishcake. Bought a box of fishcake (about 36 pcs) ; shared 6 with my brother and carried the rest home to Honolulu. I should have gotten more... but all that says is I have another reason to visit that great little city of Hilo.
(5)Federico I.
Where locals shop for heart attack waiting to happen type of food. Not for vegetarians.
(2)Bev W.
Went to Hilo Lunch Shop today. Wow what a change. The food is soooo BAD. The cone sushi is really junk. The fried chicken was fried so long it was unedible. The mac salad had so much mayonaise it tasted awful. The nishime had 2 carrots, 2 potatoes, 2 beans and the rest chopped aburage. Was it supposed to be Umani?? A few weeks back they forgot to put vinegar in the sushi and did not rinse the mustard cabbage koko it was unedible. It was sooo salty. What happened???? Not going back for a long time.
(2)Jere S.
I visit Hilo every year and make it a point to grab my food from here. Then we go to Banyan Drive, sit by the water and eat. Very relaxing. Also stop here before leaving for the airport. Very convenient to pick up our food, around the corner we gas up the rental car, cross the highway to Airport road, very convenient. Great sushi too.
(5)Benjamin A.
First off, if you come to Hilo and want grab some food for a sit down lunch at a park, this is one place you can stop at and grab plate or even a box. Gotta a lot of selections in Local food and can pick and choose you choices. Watch picking, cause it can turn from a plate to a box shortly. Also you want to get there early, because thing can run out and fast as they make them. Overall service is great and is fast, be able to give your order as fast as they put it in your box or plate. This is another place to stop and grab something to eat.
(5)Tony L.
Hilo Lunch Shop was our first stop when we got to Hilo from our hotel in Waikoloa. It is kind of hidden about a block away from the main highway, but it was easy to find with GPS. We got there a little before lunch time, but the line was 8 or 9 deep already. Luckily, all of the food is prepared already, and they have 3 or 4 people helping you at the same time. Our wait time was only about 5 minutes in line. We ordered: 2 Shrimp tempura: not bad, but by the time we got to our picnic area, it was a little cold and soggy 2 Spam musubi: good, and pretty large-sized 2 Fishcakes: not bad (a little too much cake part: wish it had more fish) 4 chicken nori: this was really good. Although the pieces of chicken (thigh meat?) were small, I liked the addition of the nori wrap around it. 1 beansprout salad: good (got to have some veggies, right?) All this food was boxed up for only $13, which is a pretty good deal. We were going to stop by before heading to the airport the next day, but we thought we were running a little late and decided to head straight to the airport (bad decision: we didn't realize how easy it would be to refurn the car and go through security at Hilo Airport). If you are in Hilo, definitely stop by here for breakfast (I believe that they open at 5 AM) or lunch for some good and cheap food.
(4)Sarah M.
The ladies at hilo lunch shop are amazing, always so happy to help me and the food is so ono!!! I especially I've the laulau...
(5)Joyce B.
One of my favorite places in Hilo. We made a stop here right before our road trip south. Luckily, there was only one person ahead of us in line. By the time we were done with our order, the line was literally out the door. The vegetable tempura was a delicious huge mound of fried veggies...Nori chicken and Korean chicken were both good. We also enjoyed the cone sushi and fish cake. For a medium sized box full of goodies, we spent around $17. For the variety and amount of food we got, I think I got my money's worth. Any of the fried food is definitely best when consumed right away. Otherwise, don't be surprised if it's a little soggy after a little while. Nonetheless, I enjoyed my food and I will definitely make another stop here on my next vacation. The only downside is they close pretty early.
(4)Tiffany C.
This place was good! Here's my overall experience: Positives (+) (+) nori chicken was really good (+) they have this Teri beef sushi type roll which was really good (+) corn beef hash was good (+) affordable prices (+) fast service (+) good variety of food (+) chicken was really good I'd definitely come here again. Great for a quick bite.
(4)Jacob N.
One of the many delicious okazuya in Hilo is Hilo Lunch Shop. They've got a pretty big selection of items, and everything I've tasted was delish! I especially enjoyed the sweet potato tempura, and the nori chicken. They also have some hot and spicy boiled peanuts that are a great buy. The person helping me was pretty courteous and helpful, but some of my other friends who had other people helping them said that they got some pretty grumpy people. The Good: Tasty food, low prices, big selection, Hot and Spicy boiled peanuts! The Bad: Not in Honolulu, some workers are kinda grumpy
(4)X X.
Ignored by the workers. Walked out and left.
(1)Zoey P.
Pros: The salads and boiled peanuts. Eh: The vegetarian fried things were a little lack luster and at some point I didn't know exactly what I was eating. I will definitely go back for the salads though! Apple maps also doesn't have its correct location.
(3)Dean I.
Okazu style food. Its popular with locals because of the good value and friendly staff, also because of the great food of course! The food here is never greasy and the ordering is fast paced. Its busy here from opening to closing, the parking lot is usually filled whenever I drive by.
(5)Lynette T.
Out of the three bento shops that we visited while in Hilo, this was our favorite. In addition to the Japanese items, there was Hawaiian food too. We sure stuck out as tourists here. "What's this? What's that?" I saw a kamaboko (Japanese fishcake) & greens mix. The lady said it was (a long Hawaiian named dish) called "pipi"-something yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… She gave me a sample and it was so delicious, I ordered a double serving. My favorite lomi salmon was also in the case, so I doubled up on that as well. yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… My husband sure loaded up his lunchbox! yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… Funny thing about the item on the bottom right. He asked if those were "Inari" sushi. They were a lot larger than those I usually make and the ones we buy back home. One of the impatient regulars behind him piped up with, "No! That's "cone" sushi!" with an eyeroll that clearly signaled she was thinking, "Stoopid!" We took all this food and enjoyed it on a stone pier at a beach on the Kona side. We wanted to watch some monk seals at play, but they were all MIA. Aw well, food was good and the scenery was lovely!
(4)Eileen G.
Greasy and delicious. I liked the taro-wrapped pork more than I thought I would. Their pasta/mac salad was yum.
(4)Kristen N.
Hilo lunch shop no ka oi! The nori chicken, the shrimp with batter, sweet and sour spareribs are so dear to me! I wish I lived near it so I can go all the time!
(5)Amanda Z.
Woo hoo okazuya! I LOVE Hilo Lunch Shop! Especially the nori chicken...soooo good!!! Wide variety of musubis (plain, nori, spam, hot dog), cone sushi, and the normal smattering of okazuya faves. Also recently tried the shoyu chicken, hamburger patty (ooo good gravy), fish cake, omelet, mac salad, fried spam, shrimp tempura and more. Gotta go early before they run out! It's def. worth a visit (or two, or more!!).
(5)Casey W.
Best plate lunch I have had in Hilo and been back at least 5 times. Fried chicken is not to be missed! The tempura is really good as is the miso chicken and teriyaki beef. Best place to stop and get a plate lunch to take with you to the beach. There is no seating so you pretty much have to take it to go or eat in your car.
(5)Sonny K.
Hilo lunch shop provides delicious bentos that can withstand the punishment of the work day. Fair prices, quick service and food that is both easy on the palette and strong enough for man's work. The Food: I've accidentally left my bento in the sun, direct sun for over 7 hours and it was still fine. I also rarely have the luxury of a microwave to heat up my food and its still pleasantly edible at room temperature. I also purchase lunch at around 5:45 am and don't eat until at least 11:30am. One thing though, make sure you get the styrofoam clamshell bento if you don't plan on having your bento in a cooler. Those plastic ones are not good in the heat or moisture. The Price. The bentos are custom made and you can pick out what musubis and meats you would like off the hot bar. If you go in there starving you will probably spend more than you planned. I have a habit of buying two of everything i pick and end up eating only one of each. The price is fair if you are fair in your bento creation. If you are a big eater or like to load your bento you will probably spend about 8-9 dollars. I can usually get away with 6-7. The service. Hilo Lunch Shop is open at 5:30am. From what I understand is they are closed early like 1 or 2 pm. They are also not open on on Holidays or Monday. Monday is a day that I would prefer them be open. Once Sunday night comes along, I am often to lazy to pack a lunch for work the following day. But meh, minor inconvenience. Even if they have a long line the service is quick. They have a good system of serving customers and all the food is already made (unless you order breakfast or a plate lunch which is made at time of order). They have a large staff and at least 3 people up front to cycle the morning rush. The serving line is much like Subway local food style but you don't leave the shop smelling like bread.
(5)X X.
Ignored by the workers. Walked out and left.
(1)David C.
Sorry, but I don't know how this place got 4.5 stars, the food was pretty awful. The nori chicken was highly reviewed but I thought it was borderline at best.
(1)Janice H.
Sum it up in 3 points, Miss J: 1) Affordable, extremely delicious okazuya (delicatessen) offering local-style Japanese/Hawaiian foods that you can buy a la carte (by the piece) 2) Hours: Tues - Sat, 5:30 AM - 1 PM. If can, come here before 10 or 11 AM before the lunch crowd forms & before all da good stuff goes. 3) Bring cash. Haven't read any reviews where they take credit card & I'll verify this when I go back home soon. ---------- Definitely the best okazuya in Hilo (as c-a p. so expertly pointed out)! :) For the newbies, okazuya is a Japanese term broken down as follows: okazu = side dishes ya = store A store (delicatessen, to be exact) where local delicacies are prepared and laid out, so the customer can pick and choose what they want to buy (À la carte, as you haoles/mainlanders call it). Items are normally priced by the piece, so watch out! You may find that you want to sample each and everything of what they have to offer. Easy foa rack up one bill at dis place. According to this old Honolulu Star-Bulletin article, okazuya stems from Hawai'i's old sugar plantation days when the Japanese women used to prepare "portable lunches" (bento) for the single men in camp. Whatever the case, okazuyas are a dying breed with many closing down from the Big Island to Honolulu. archives.starbulletin.co… Nori chicken is winnahs! Cone sushi is winnahs! Korean chicken is winnahs! Mostly everything in here is winnahs! I have fond memories of my faddah (dad) taking me here really early in the morning (6:30 AM) to get breakfast; this was his favorite place to go in town outside of Ken's House of Pancakes or the Firehouse Restaurant in Hilo. His favorite was the cone sushi. Come here before lunch hour because the line starts flowing out there door. This place is a favorite for all kines of people - construction workers to state workers to surfers. If you going go beach, plan on a long road trip, or going visit one dear aunty/relative, stop by here for your grinds. Anyone's face would beam up to know that you brought dem something from hea. :)
(5)Leanne L.
Good food... But be ready to order when it's your turn... And don't waste their time, the ladies may give you a nasty look...
(2)Nam N.
Two Words: Nori Chicken. How do they do it? I have no freaking idea. So simple, so tasty, so good. Boneless chicken that are deep fried with a lightly sweet coating and wrapped with a thin sheet of Nori. mMMMMM!!! We made a quick stop into the Hilo Lunch Shop to pack a little picnic to enjoy up at the tidepools. 6 pieces of Nori Chicken, 2 Rice wrapped in Nori, and a few veggie fritters. Perfectly delicious accompanied by cold beers, amazingly gorgeous tide pools, and my honey on our anniversary :) Definitely a local spot SO worth stopping in for. Make sure you get there early as they close at 1 and may run out of the dee-lish Nori chicken before you get there!
(4)Melissa D.
Inexpensive, good food and selection. You might want to get there early morning though because the good stuff sells out fast.
(5)Nam N.
Two Words: Nori Chicken. How do they do it? I have no freaking idea. So simple, so tasty, so good. Boneless chicken that are deep fried with a lightly sweet coating and wrapped with a thin sheet of Nori. mMMMMM!!! We made a quick stop into the Hilo Lunch Shop to pack a little picnic to enjoy up at the tidepools. 6 pieces of Nori Chicken, 2 Rice wrapped in Nori, and a few veggie fritters. Perfectly delicious accompanied by cold beers, amazingly gorgeous tide pools, and my honey on our anniversary :) Definitely a local spot SO worth stopping in for. Make sure you get there early as they close at 1 and may run out of the dee-lish Nori chicken before you get there!
(4)Eileen G.
Greasy and delicious. I liked the taro-wrapped pork more than I thought I would. Their pasta/mac salad was yum.
(4)Kristen N.
Hilo lunch shop no ka oi! The nori chicken, the shrimp with batter, sweet and sour spareribs are so dear to me! I wish I lived near it so I can go all the time!
(5)Sonny K.
Hilo lunch shop provides delicious bentos that can withstand the punishment of the work day. Fair prices, quick service and food that is both easy on the palette and strong enough for man's work. The Food: I've accidentally left my bento in the sun, direct sun for over 7 hours and it was still fine. I also rarely have the luxury of a microwave to heat up my food and its still pleasantly edible at room temperature. I also purchase lunch at around 5:45 am and don't eat until at least 11:30am. One thing though, make sure you get the styrofoam clamshell bento if you don't plan on having your bento in a cooler. Those plastic ones are not good in the heat or moisture. The Price. The bentos are custom made and you can pick out what musubis and meats you would like off the hot bar. If you go in there starving you will probably spend more than you planned. I have a habit of buying two of everything i pick and end up eating only one of each. The price is fair if you are fair in your bento creation. If you are a big eater or like to load your bento you will probably spend about 8-9 dollars. I can usually get away with 6-7. The service. Hilo Lunch Shop is open at 5:30am. From what I understand is they are closed early like 1 or 2 pm. They are also not open on on Holidays or Monday. Monday is a day that I would prefer them be open. Once Sunday night comes along, I am often to lazy to pack a lunch for work the following day. But meh, minor inconvenience. Even if they have a long line the service is quick. They have a good system of serving customers and all the food is already made (unless you order breakfast or a plate lunch which is made at time of order). They have a large staff and at least 3 people up front to cycle the morning rush. The serving line is much like Subway local food style but you don't leave the shop smelling like bread.
(5)Queenie I.
My favorite spot to stop in at for breakfast/lunch! I wake up early just to come here, haha! Which FYI, if you don't want to miss out on all the yummy, get here early! Most times they run out =[ Suuuper ono! Affordable! & Great to-go! This is the place to stop for snacks for a group on the go. They have a big selection of different things and will everything being so ono and cheap, try one of everything! Guarantee, you're going to like something if not everything. ;] Oh maang, just writing this review has me itching to fly home to stop here. I definitely recommend everyone trying this place. Its my favorite!
(5)Kevin S.
Hilo Lunch Shop is my favorite okazuya in Hawaii. Make sure you order two of everything, and enjoy your bento at Hilo's bayfront. Strengths: - Food - Location - Friendly staff - Accepts credit cards - Cheap Weakness: - Closed during holidays
(5)Taryn N.
Okazuya's are one of the best things about Hawaii. And the sweet potato tempura at Hilo Lunch Shop is one of the best things about Hilo.
(5)Michelle M.
Went there yesterday and the lady dee who waited on me was so rude don't recommend this place the food pretty much taste like the service . Kawamotos I will always be faithful. So sad a place can run a buisness and be so rude.;(
(1)Anya E.
If you like heart attack on a plate, then Hilo Lunch Shop is the place for you. It is among the best of okazuya on the east side of Hawaii. Okazuya is like a deli-style eatery where prepared food is displayed in a glass case and you buy a la carte. HLS offers just about every type of okazu, something to please everyone. Here's a short list: spam musubi, cone sushi, kalua pig, lau lau, nori chicken, cornbeef hash patties, tofu cakes, fried chicken, shrimp tempura, teri chicken, korean chicken, mac salad, etc. For us, HLS is great for most occasions from picnics to the beach to day hikes. They package food by the plate, small box or big box. We usually pick up a small box with an assortment of our favorites for a day at the beach and such. I love their fried chicken. It's some of the best fried chicken I've had. Their fried taro cake bun is pretty darn good as well. If you plan to grab some food here, be sure to get here before lunch time as they usually sell out by then.
(4)Jaynie K.
Affordable, insanely tasty, with so many choices, I just want to bring a huge trough and just have them throw their entire menu right into it so I can bury my face in it and die in happiness!!! Standard okazuya items, excellent flavors! See photos! I need to go back to Hilo just to get some more of this.
(5)Shannon M.
Yet another lunch counter place; you'd better figure out fast what you want because the ladies industriously slinging food into styrofoam containers are moving at warp speed -- in fact, so quickly that they took my boyfriend's order and forgot about me (it was quickly rectified, at least). Everyone on yelp seemed to recommend the nori chicken, which I sense is one of those things that's probably at its best when it's fresh out of the fryer; ours had a little age on it. Still, the outside was flavorful and the inside retained moisture. It just would have been better warm. Thin circles of Portuguese sausage tasted like smoky kielbasa (greasy and good). I got a giant wad of tempura veggies, which were light and crisp on the outside, but somewhat underdone on the inside (this could have been rectified by making a smaller wad --) Massive onigiri and fat sushi rolls will fulfill your starch quotient for the day. Again, the incomplete board menu is somewhat impenetrable to newcomers, and none of the trays are labeled. Basically you can dive in, point to something and see what you think. Chances are it'll be pretty good.
(3)Terry K.
Yelp Challenge 365 # 151/365 So, I'm making my way back to Honolulu, heading to the Hilo Airport...... with much time to spare. My brother (my driver to the airport) suggests I stop for some food on the run... and we decided to stop at Hilo Lunch Shop. It's been years since I've stopped here. You need to go there EARLY in the morning. By 10 am much of their delicious food is GONE. I am checking in on my Iphone and my brother heads towards the deli... he says! "Hey! Look at the sticker on the door!!!! It's a YELP sticker.... Yep! Hilo Lunch Shop is loved by Yelpers throughout. Well, deservingly so because the food is good! Not too sweet, not to oily.... okay for a box of food to take on the run... A little trivia and a jewel of knowlege that you may need to use one day....one day..... and that is: Hilo, HI is the hometown for fishcake. They had Amano Fishcake (now sold in retail stores throughout the state, including Costco), Sumida Fishcake (no longer available as the family retired and none of the kids wanted to run the factory ;() and then, there is Hilo Lunch Shop. A long way to go and a longer story to tell but I went to Hilo Lunch Shop specifically for its fishcake. Bought a box of fishcake (about 36 pcs) ; shared 6 with my brother and carried the rest home to Honolulu. I should have gotten more... but all that says is I have another reason to visit that great little city of Hilo.
(5)Federico I.
Where locals shop for heart attack waiting to happen type of food. Not for vegetarians.
(2)Jesse W.
7/1/10: Two and a half years since my first review and the breakfast plate is still the same price ($2.75)!!! Awesome, how places can boast about their customer service! Hands down, the best okazuya around - thanks for keeping up the awesome food and holding your prices!
(5)Taryn N.
Okazuya's are one of the best things about Hawaii. And the sweet potato tempura at Hilo Lunch Shop is one of the best things about Hilo.
(5)Michelle M.
Went there yesterday and the lady dee who waited on me was so rude don't recommend this place the food pretty much taste like the service . Kawamotos I will always be faithful. So sad a place can run a buisness and be so rude.;(
(1)Keau K.
Easily my favorite place to get okazu in Hilo. Make sure you get here before 11:30am, because there's a good chance they'll run out of food. My favorite things here are the fishcake, tuna-tofu patty, nori chicken and pork hash, but there are so many other great things to try. If you're visiting Hilo and looking to take a lunch with you (to the volcano, for example), I recommend stopping here and picking something up. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Jenn K.
I eat here every time I'm back home. My usual is a musubi, ono tempura, shrimp tempura, and scoop mac salad. And they do take credit card, I know some people weren't sure.
(5)Jon L.
Located on a side street just off Kamehameha Avenue is Hilo Lunch Shop. The street that it is on is full of construction related businesses which makes the area it is in kind of like Kakaako in Honolulu. The restaurant is an okazuya or Japanese deli so everything is sold ala carte style. Despite its moniker, Hilo Lunch Shop actually opens bright and early in the morning and closes in the early afternoon. I believe it is 1 pm. Understandable given the locale. Came here after a muggy, sunny and rainy walk from the Hilo Airport. The items offered are pretty diverse. I got here a little later in the day so many of the items I wanted were already gone. And this was like just before noon. Anyways, I got a Spam and hot dog musubi, namasu (Japanese cucumber salad), ogo (seaweed), egg omelet and a fishcake. Price was under $7 and very filling. The Spam and hot dog musubi was pretty good. The fishcake is one of the best I have tasted, while the namasu and ogo were refreshing which was welcomed given the hot sun I endured to get here. This is pretty much a takeout type of place, though there are several chairs to the side to eat. I decided to take it to go and headed down the street to the park grounds of Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium to dine. Plenty of space there with hardly anyone in sight. All told, Hilo Lunch Shop is a good lunch spot in Hilo to get okazuya.
(4)Terrance Y.
Great place for lunch get the Nori Wrapped chicken yum! the Nishime is good too as well as the Shoyu Chicken good Cone Sushi lots of parking heh though it does get busy during lunch, For a small town place this place is one of the few places that make me feel like it's Honolulu as they don't seem laid back and are busy making the lunches and are not as friendly as most of the other places I've been to but definitely worth going to.
(3)Jason N.
Good bento-ya for lunch. Quite busy with long lines but worth the wait. The cone sushi, nori chicken, and tempura are well made. The chicken and tempura are not oily or greasy. Cone sushi is well packed with a good su. Surprisingly the warabi salad is crisp and fresh with good flavor without having that mass produced blandness. The okinawan sweet potato tempura is well cooked, if slightly over-battered, with great taste. One of the better bento-ya places in HIlo for take out.
(4)John C.
Killer place, great food....all take out, eat at the park. Get there before 11:00 or food will be all gone! It's that good.
(5)A. L.
this place is for local tastes, if you are from the mainland , probably not for you. everything is mostly fried, yummy but not too heart healthy and if you have high blood pressure, the Salt content is bit high too. everything is tasty in the sense of fried foods and CHeAP! if you like to eat a bit of everything and enjoy local food this is the place for you. this is not for health conscious palates.
(3)LL C.
delicious and cheap local food. opens early and closes at 1pm. i especially liked musubi, the seaweed salad, the tuna tofu salad, and the fried eggplant with spam. plus of course that korean chicken everyone here is talking about.
(5)Ian K.
Where is the sushi! Why does this come up when I search SUSHI!!!!
(3)Denise E.
A hidden gem for cheap eats, just off the intersection of Hwy 19 and Hawaii Belt Road. We stopped in to grab some lunch/snacks before heading to Volcanoes Nat'l Park, and then once again before heading up to Waipio Valley. We HAD to try the nori chicken after reading some of the other reviews. It was delicious!!! Boneless chicken pieces cooked in a sweet sauce, wrapped in a piece of nori. They all looked like dark-meat chicken; so they weren't dried out. We got 6 of them, some spam musubi, and tried the tuna-tofu patties. The spam musubi was okay ... the rice to spam ratio was high, kind of disappointing. The tuna-tofu patties were interesting -- they look like mini crab cakes; lightly fried and luckily didn't taste fishy at all, but they were kind of dry. We didn't get any on our 2nd trip here. The 6 musubis, 6 nori chicken, and 2 tofu patties came out to ~$10-11. Definitely a good deal.
(4)Jenifer G.
When I'm in Hilo I always make a pit stop to grab some nori chicken -- so cripsy, tasty and juicy. The other items are good too but nothing beats the nori chicken.
(4)Jade T.
Nori Chicken, Mac Salad and Spam Musubi is all I need! Oishi!!!!
(5)Jason A.
The best fish cake eva! Go early. They run out.
(5)Penny P.
The best okazuya lunch plate place in Hilo, bar none. If this place ever closes, my heart will go with it. I have years of fond memories of take out from here. Unfortunately, I usually miss out on this place when I'm back b/c I can't wake up for the rush hour (6-8 a.m.) so when I go I'm either too late and all of the food is gone, or it's closed. Serious comfort food, the best taste, not the best service, but do you want to be busting your butt starting from 3 a.m. or earlier? Me neither. The fact that the food lands on my plate and i'm leaving with all goodies in tact in my paper box makes me happy enough.
(5)Ama W.
The vegetable tempura is delicious, along with the nori chicken and the fishcakes! Get there early to get everything you want. I've shown up at 11 and they have been out of my favorites.
(5)Andrew W.
Three words: Sweet Potato Tempura! So damn good! My wife was born and raised in Hilo, and she took me here one day on our first visit. We picked up a box of various food, and went to the beach. Everything was good. Musabi, fried chicken, mac salad, the above tempura... it was probably the best picnic lunch of my life, chowing down on this amazing, cold home cooked food, watching the sparkling blue waters in the background... If you are in Hilo for any reason, I highly recommend you stop and make yourself a plate for the day. Get there early, as the best stuff goes fast. Then, hit the beach, volcano, or whatever, and enjoy your tasty lunch (or, as they say locally, your ono grindz.) I love the relaxed, chill vibe of Hilo (God, I hope I can retire there someday) and the same goes for Hilo Lunch Shop!
(4)Melissa D.
Inexpensive, good food and selection. You might want to get there early morning though because the good stuff sells out fast.
(5)Casey W.
Best plate lunch I have had in Hilo and been back at least 5 times. Fried chicken is not to be missed! The tempura is really good as is the miso chicken and teriyaki beef. Best place to stop and get a plate lunch to take with you to the beach. There is no seating so you pretty much have to take it to go or eat in your car.
(5)SENORA F.
This Okazu-ya brought back so many nostalgic memories... One bite of their nishime had me back in the kitchen of my small kid days...making trouble to my aunty as she stirred the enormous pot of Japanese pork, chicken, and vegetable stew. Their corned beef hash patties had the same effect. I also had their cone sushi, nori chicken, fried cod (katsu style), fried ono (tempura style) with tartar sauce and takuan. Hubby had the Portuguese Sausage Breakfast which came with a small coffee. Everything in their display case looked sooo good, but there was a line of hungry customers behind me, so I had to order real fast (not my usual style of umm....ahhh...I don't know what I want????). I was very pleased with the quality and taste of the food and there was a park nearby with covered picnic tables to eat at and ducks to watch swimming in the large ponds. Don't worry, I didn't eat all that okazu-ya food by myself. I had a little, hungry six year old breakfast monster to feed! And we ate every last bite of it!
(5)a t.
We arrived at noon and unfortunately had a very limited selection of food. What we tried was very good. Including a malasada, shoyu pork, fish cakes, spam musubi and sushi. We also tried side orders of cucumber salad and bean sprout salad. Everything was delicious. The server was extremely helpful pointing out all the choices available. She also suggested coming in before 9am for a full menu selection.
(4)Ange M.
Okazuya type place. Good bento. Little of this, little of that. Really busy and long line, but not too long a wait. They close at 1pm, which I do not get as where I am from that is still considered lunch time? The fishcake and nori chicken were my favorite, but everything was good. The service was a little lacking as some of the ladies were rude and huffy to other patrons. The woman who took our order kept rushing us to keep giving her our order and then asked us to repeat it two times. What the hey? Anyway, if the service had been more friendly, I would have rated it higher. Food was good, but not sure it is enough to warrant dealing with service that said "YOU are lucky we are here" and not vice versa.
(3)Travis M.
For Hilo this deserves 5 stars. One of my favs that only the locals know about. One thing thats stands out is their maki sushi roll wrapped with mustard cabbage. Never seen anything like it before and it tastes damn good. Another thing that's really good is their fishcake. Their nori chicken was pretty good as well. I'll definately be back. One thing to note is get there early because the food runs out fast and you'll be standing in a line that goes out the door.
(5)Andrew P.
One of the better places to eat on the Big Island. Here you get good cheap food without a lot of fuss. The nori chicken is super yummy and there's lot of variety. There's always a line and they do run out of food, so get there early for best selection.
(4)Katniss B.
We got here late so there weren't many choices left. Beware that this place closes at 1pm! I think we got here a little after 12pm. Anyway, how it works is that everything is individually priced. I think each piece of nori chicken cost 90 cents. I wanted to try the korean chicken but then were out. So I order two pieces of nori chicken and one shoyu for my daughter. Both chicken dishes were yummy. Definitely a good and affordable place to come for breakfast or lunch.
(4)Jay S.
Great lunch. Traditional japanese food with an Island twist. Pack a lunch and have a great hike and a great meal.
(4)Anya E.
If you like heart attack on a plate, then Hilo Lunch Shop is the place for you. It is among the best of okazuya on the east side of Hawaii. Okazuya is like a deli-style eatery where prepared food is displayed in a glass case and you buy a la carte. HLS offers just about every type of okazu, something to please everyone. Here's a short list: spam musubi, cone sushi, kalua pig, lau lau, nori chicken, cornbeef hash patties, tofu cakes, fried chicken, shrimp tempura, teri chicken, korean chicken, mac salad, etc. For us, HLS is great for most occasions from picnics to the beach to day hikes. They package food by the plate, small box or big box. We usually pick up a small box with an assortment of our favorites for a day at the beach and such. I love their fried chicken. It's some of the best fried chicken I've had. Their fried taro cake bun is pretty darn good as well. If you plan to grab some food here, be sure to get here before lunch time as they usually sell out by then.
(4)Jaynie K.
Affordable, insanely tasty, with so many choices, I just want to bring a huge trough and just have them throw their entire menu right into it so I can bury my face in it and die in happiness!!! Standard okazuya items, excellent flavors! See photos! I need to go back to Hilo just to get some more of this.
(5)Queenie I.
My favorite spot to stop in at for breakfast/lunch! I wake up early just to come here, haha! Which FYI, if you don't want to miss out on all the yummy, get here early! Most times they run out =[ Suuuper ono! Affordable! & Great to-go! This is the place to stop for snacks for a group on the go. They have a big selection of different things and will everything being so ono and cheap, try one of everything! Guarantee, you're going to like something if not everything. ;] Oh maang, just writing this review has me itching to fly home to stop here. I definitely recommend everyone trying this place. Its my favorite!
(5)Terrance Y.
Great place for lunch get the Nori Wrapped chicken yum! the Nishime is good too as well as the Shoyu Chicken good Cone Sushi lots of parking heh though it does get busy during lunch, For a small town place this place is one of the few places that make me feel like it's Honolulu as they don't seem laid back and are busy making the lunches and are not as friendly as most of the other places I've been to but definitely worth going to.
(3)Shannon M.
Yet another lunch counter place; you'd better figure out fast what you want because the ladies industriously slinging food into styrofoam containers are moving at warp speed -- in fact, so quickly that they took my boyfriend's order and forgot about me (it was quickly rectified, at least). Everyone on yelp seemed to recommend the nori chicken, which I sense is one of those things that's probably at its best when it's fresh out of the fryer; ours had a little age on it. Still, the outside was flavorful and the inside retained moisture. It just would have been better warm. Thin circles of Portuguese sausage tasted like smoky kielbasa (greasy and good). I got a giant wad of tempura veggies, which were light and crisp on the outside, but somewhat underdone on the inside (this could have been rectified by making a smaller wad --) Massive onigiri and fat sushi rolls will fulfill your starch quotient for the day. Again, the incomplete board menu is somewhat impenetrable to newcomers, and none of the trays are labeled. Basically you can dive in, point to something and see what you think. Chances are it'll be pretty good.
(3)Keau K.
Easily my favorite place to get okazu in Hilo. Make sure you get here before 11:30am, because there's a good chance they'll run out of food. My favorite things here are the fishcake, tuna-tofu patty, nori chicken and pork hash, but there are so many other great things to try. If you're visiting Hilo and looking to take a lunch with you (to the volcano, for example), I recommend stopping here and picking something up. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Jesse W.
7/1/10: Two and a half years since my first review and the breakfast plate is still the same price ($2.75)!!! Awesome, how places can boast about their customer service! Hands down, the best okazuya around - thanks for keeping up the awesome food and holding your prices!
(5)Jenn K.
I eat here every time I'm back home. My usual is a musubi, ono tempura, shrimp tempura, and scoop mac salad. And they do take credit card, I know some people weren't sure.
(5)Jon L.
Located on a side street just off Kamehameha Avenue is Hilo Lunch Shop. The street that it is on is full of construction related businesses which makes the area it is in kind of like Kakaako in Honolulu. The restaurant is an okazuya or Japanese deli so everything is sold ala carte style. Despite its moniker, Hilo Lunch Shop actually opens bright and early in the morning and closes in the early afternoon. I believe it is 1 pm. Understandable given the locale. Came here after a muggy, sunny and rainy walk from the Hilo Airport. The items offered are pretty diverse. I got here a little later in the day so many of the items I wanted were already gone. And this was like just before noon. Anyways, I got a Spam and hot dog musubi, namasu (Japanese cucumber salad), ogo (seaweed), egg omelet and a fishcake. Price was under $7 and very filling. The Spam and hot dog musubi was pretty good. The fishcake is one of the best I have tasted, while the namasu and ogo were refreshing which was welcomed given the hot sun I endured to get here. This is pretty much a takeout type of place, though there are several chairs to the side to eat. I decided to take it to go and headed down the street to the park grounds of Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium to dine. Plenty of space there with hardly anyone in sight. All told, Hilo Lunch Shop is a good lunch spot in Hilo to get okazuya.
(4)LL C.
delicious and cheap local food. opens early and closes at 1pm. i especially liked musubi, the seaweed salad, the tuna tofu salad, and the fried eggplant with spam. plus of course that korean chicken everyone here is talking about.
(5)Denise E.
A hidden gem for cheap eats, just off the intersection of Hwy 19 and Hawaii Belt Road. We stopped in to grab some lunch/snacks before heading to Volcanoes Nat'l Park, and then once again before heading up to Waipio Valley. We HAD to try the nori chicken after reading some of the other reviews. It was delicious!!! Boneless chicken pieces cooked in a sweet sauce, wrapped in a piece of nori. They all looked like dark-meat chicken; so they weren't dried out. We got 6 of them, some spam musubi, and tried the tuna-tofu patties. The spam musubi was okay ... the rice to spam ratio was high, kind of disappointing. The tuna-tofu patties were interesting -- they look like mini crab cakes; lightly fried and luckily didn't taste fishy at all, but they were kind of dry. We didn't get any on our 2nd trip here. The 6 musubis, 6 nori chicken, and 2 tofu patties came out to ~$10-11. Definitely a good deal.
(4)Jenifer G.
When I'm in Hilo I always make a pit stop to grab some nori chicken -- so cripsy, tasty and juicy. The other items are good too but nothing beats the nori chicken.
(4)Jade T.
Nori Chicken, Mac Salad and Spam Musubi is all I need! Oishi!!!!
(5)Jason A.
The best fish cake eva! Go early. They run out.
(5)Ian K.
Where is the sushi! Why does this come up when I search SUSHI!!!!
(3)Penny P.
The best okazuya lunch plate place in Hilo, bar none. If this place ever closes, my heart will go with it. I have years of fond memories of take out from here. Unfortunately, I usually miss out on this place when I'm back b/c I can't wake up for the rush hour (6-8 a.m.) so when I go I'm either too late and all of the food is gone, or it's closed. Serious comfort food, the best taste, not the best service, but do you want to be busting your butt starting from 3 a.m. or earlier? Me neither. The fact that the food lands on my plate and i'm leaving with all goodies in tact in my paper box makes me happy enough.
(5)Ama W.
The vegetable tempura is delicious, along with the nori chicken and the fishcakes! Get there early to get everything you want. I've shown up at 11 and they have been out of my favorites.
(5)Andrew W.
Three words: Sweet Potato Tempura! So damn good! My wife was born and raised in Hilo, and she took me here one day on our first visit. We picked up a box of various food, and went to the beach. Everything was good. Musabi, fried chicken, mac salad, the above tempura... it was probably the best picnic lunch of my life, chowing down on this amazing, cold home cooked food, watching the sparkling blue waters in the background... If you are in Hilo for any reason, I highly recommend you stop and make yourself a plate for the day. Get there early, as the best stuff goes fast. Then, hit the beach, volcano, or whatever, and enjoy your tasty lunch (or, as they say locally, your ono grindz.) I love the relaxed, chill vibe of Hilo (God, I hope I can retire there someday) and the same goes for Hilo Lunch Shop!
(4)SENORA F.
This Okazu-ya brought back so many nostalgic memories... One bite of their nishime had me back in the kitchen of my small kid days...making trouble to my aunty as she stirred the enormous pot of Japanese pork, chicken, and vegetable stew. Their corned beef hash patties had the same effect. I also had their cone sushi, nori chicken, fried cod (katsu style), fried ono (tempura style) with tartar sauce and takuan. Hubby had the Portuguese Sausage Breakfast which came with a small coffee. Everything in their display case looked sooo good, but there was a line of hungry customers behind me, so I had to order real fast (not my usual style of umm....ahhh...I don't know what I want????). I was very pleased with the quality and taste of the food and there was a park nearby with covered picnic tables to eat at and ducks to watch swimming in the large ponds. Don't worry, I didn't eat all that okazu-ya food by myself. I had a little, hungry six year old breakfast monster to feed! And we ate every last bite of it!
(5)a t.
We arrived at noon and unfortunately had a very limited selection of food. What we tried was very good. Including a malasada, shoyu pork, fish cakes, spam musubi and sushi. We also tried side orders of cucumber salad and bean sprout salad. Everything was delicious. The server was extremely helpful pointing out all the choices available. She also suggested coming in before 9am for a full menu selection.
(4)Ange M.
Okazuya type place. Good bento. Little of this, little of that. Really busy and long line, but not too long a wait. They close at 1pm, which I do not get as where I am from that is still considered lunch time? The fishcake and nori chicken were my favorite, but everything was good. The service was a little lacking as some of the ladies were rude and huffy to other patrons. The woman who took our order kept rushing us to keep giving her our order and then asked us to repeat it two times. What the hey? Anyway, if the service had been more friendly, I would have rated it higher. Food was good, but not sure it is enough to warrant dealing with service that said "YOU are lucky we are here" and not vice versa.
(3)Travis M.
For Hilo this deserves 5 stars. One of my favs that only the locals know about. One thing thats stands out is their maki sushi roll wrapped with mustard cabbage. Never seen anything like it before and it tastes damn good. Another thing that's really good is their fishcake. Their nori chicken was pretty good as well. I'll definately be back. One thing to note is get there early because the food runs out fast and you'll be standing in a line that goes out the door.
(5)Jason N.
Good bento-ya for lunch. Quite busy with long lines but worth the wait. The cone sushi, nori chicken, and tempura are well made. The chicken and tempura are not oily or greasy. Cone sushi is well packed with a good su. Surprisingly the warabi salad is crisp and fresh with good flavor without having that mass produced blandness. The okinawan sweet potato tempura is well cooked, if slightly over-battered, with great taste. One of the better bento-ya places in HIlo for take out.
(4)John C.
Killer place, great food....all take out, eat at the park. Get there before 11:00 or food will be all gone! It's that good.
(5)A. L.
this place is for local tastes, if you are from the mainland , probably not for you. everything is mostly fried, yummy but not too heart healthy and if you have high blood pressure, the Salt content is bit high too. everything is tasty in the sense of fried foods and CHeAP! if you like to eat a bit of everything and enjoy local food this is the place for you. this is not for health conscious palates.
(3)Andrew P.
One of the better places to eat on the Big Island. Here you get good cheap food without a lot of fuss. The nori chicken is super yummy and there's lot of variety. There's always a line and they do run out of food, so get there early for best selection.
(4)Katniss B.
We got here late so there weren't many choices left. Beware that this place closes at 1pm! I think we got here a little after 12pm. Anyway, how it works is that everything is individually priced. I think each piece of nori chicken cost 90 cents. I wanted to try the korean chicken but then were out. So I order two pieces of nori chicken and one shoyu for my daughter. Both chicken dishes were yummy. Definitely a good and affordable place to come for breakfast or lunch.
(4)Jay S.
Great lunch. Traditional japanese food with an Island twist. Pack a lunch and have a great hike and a great meal.
(4)Anne C.
Good okazuya food. Order ahead so you don't have to wait in line. My daughter and I love the ogo salad. My friend from Oahu loves the warabi salad and fish cake. My son always gets the spam musubi and nori chicken. They have a wide variety of food to please all kinds of people. Great place to get a picnic meal. Go early! The food sells out quickly.
(3)Taryn L.
Located in the quiet town of Hilo, Hilo Lunch Shop is one of my favorite okazuyas. They offer delicious entrees that you can choose from to include in your personal bento. I'm a simple (or picky, depending on who you ask) eater. I went with the nori chicken, hot dog musubi, vegetable tempura, cone sushi, and hash patty. The hash patty was good - it was fluffy and the standard okazuya fare. The same goes for the cone sushi - standard item in an okazuya shop (not to take away from the fact that it is delicious; I was always a sucker for sushi rice). The hot dog musubi was more unique to this shop and was tasty - I love the combo of hot dog, takuan, and furikake. The nori chicken was great because it wasn't oily and seasoned well (definitely not the bland piece of chicken I was expecting). It was a perfect portion size too. However, my favorite item was the vegetable tempura. I was lucky enough to get a fresh piece, so it was perfectly crisp and not oily and/or soggy. I loved it. It reminded me of my favorite okazuya when I was growing up (they closed, unfortunately). I have to admit that I wish it had a bit more seasoning, but the texture was spot on. What really makes me give them the 5 stars is the customer service. There was a line when I got there, but I was expecting that. However, while I was waiting in line, I kept looking and I couldn't see any vegetable tempura available (I was really looking forward to the tempura). When I got to order, I asked about it and the employee said that they were currently out...then she said she'll go in the back to check for me. Mid rush. For some, this may be expected as customer service, but for me, it was a big deal because I really was looking forward to trying their tempura. Lo and behold...she comes back out with one piece of freshly fried tempura. I was estactic. And the tempura certainly exceeded expectations. Totally. Worth. The. Wait.
(5)Austin N.
Overall impression: Outstanding taste and great value for what you get. Avg price: depending on how much you eat, $6-10 for lunch, ~$1/piece of food Tips: -come early! food runs out by 11/12ish Positives: -the food is just outstanding -cheap Negatives: -only open for breakfast or lunch -food runs out -long line (which shows how good it is) -probably not the healthiest (but seriously, who cares?) There have been more than enough reviews on here to convince you of how great this place is. Let me just say that I ordered about 12 different things and they were all excellent. In fact, many were better than I've had at other okazuyas. And very cheap for what you get. I try to come here whenever I come to Hilo. Just bee sure to get there early.
(5)Edwin N.
This place is one of my favorite okazuya joints. If you can get there early, then that's great for you because the line gets long real quick real fast. Regardless if there's a lot of people, don't get discouraged, the food is worth waiting in line for. Customer service is awesome. About 5-6 associates helping multiple customers at once to alleviate the line. When my wife and I get the chance to hit that spot, we get the box lunch. We usually get the Spam musubis, hot dog musubis, Nori Chicken, Shrimp Tempura, Hash patties, and Yakitori Chicken. There are so much good choices! All that food goes a long way. I highly recommend Hilo Lunch Shop! Good local food with great customer service!
(5)Donna M.
Our flight got in at a crazy early time--think 6am, and the first thing on my mind was food! I was on the hunt to get my hands on some warabi salad, but it was a little too early in the morning, and the warabi wasn't out yet. All good though, since we were already there, how could I say no to all the other okazuya goodies to choose from?! Talk about goodies--there are so many delectable looking items out on the okazuya line that it's easy to go overboard while ordering. My parents picked up a bento to share between the two of them for $5. Me and the BF however, went a little nuts and got a ton of food for $15! My favorites include the nori chicken, nishime, corn beef hash patties, and the spam musubi! Nori chicken is now easily one of my favorite foods! Super easy to eat, simple and tasty. Easily one of my new favorites! I loved the light texture of the corn beef hash patties too, even though I'm not typically a huge fan of corned beef! I loved how light it was, and easy it was to eat in patty form. The spam musubis are absolutely heavenly, and I loved how fluffy and light the rice was. Pass on the cucumber kimchi though, this was just OK compared to the amazingness of everything else. Even at a super early hour, the line here was real! I always get nervous at okazuya joints, and this was no exception. With so many hungry people behind me, and so many goodies laid out before me, oh mannnnnn. The ladies here are super efficient though, and get through with orders quick! Definitely a must visit if in Hilo!
(5)Eric D.
Absolutely amazing food. BUT YOU GOTTA GO EARLY. They often run out of things because they are so popular. The line moves rather slowly but that gives you a good amount of time to figure out what you want. I highly recommend this place. It also has the hole-in-the-wall feel, which is something that u always desire. If you are looking for local, Japanese-Hawaiian food that's from "grandma's kitchen" go ahead and stop by Hilo Lunch Shop.
(5)Garret U.
This place is great for picking up a quick to-go lunch. So many choices to choose from. If you're the indecisive type then just do what I do, while waiting in line listen to what other people are ordering and get the same thing. I did that and ended up with an ume musubi ($0.85), nori chicken ($1), vegetable tempura ($0.95), sweet potato tempura ($0.90), and long rice ($1.45). Total with tax, $5.36. Not bad for the amount of food (see picture). As you can see, you order everything a la cart. If you're not careful you can end up with a feast suitable for a small army, so try not to get carried away. But either way, everything I've tried there I liked. My favorite is probably the nori chicken. The vegetable tempura was also very good. I recommend starting off with those two and then just go from there. Have fun!
(5)R. B.
You haven't visited Hawaii or Hilo without coming here for some great local food.
(5)Brennan T.
Few restaurants get five stars from me, but there's something so nostalgic and enjoyable about Hilo Lunch Shop that I must extend a hand of generosity. From order-by-the-piece shrimp and fish tempura to spam musubi, warabi salad, and fried chicken, Hilo Lunch Shop boasts bento-style foods put into a box for enjoyment with family and friends or just by yourself. Checkout a great review by Corey Masao Johnson: thehawaiiherald.com/2014… .
(5)X X.
Ignored by the workers. Walked out and left.
(1)Eric D.
Absolutely amazing food. BUT YOU GOTTA GO EARLY. They often run out of things because they are so popular. The line moves rather slowly but that gives you a good amount of time to figure out what you want. I highly recommend this place. It also has the hole-in-the-wall feel, which is something that u always desire. If you are looking for local, Japanese-Hawaiian food that's from "grandma's kitchen" go ahead and stop by Hilo Lunch Shop.
(5)Edwin N.
This place is one of my favorite okazuya joints. If you can get there early, then that's great for you because the line gets long real quick real fast. Regardless if there's a lot of people, don't get discouraged, the food is worth waiting in line for. Customer service is awesome. About 5-6 associates helping multiple customers at once to alleviate the line. When my wife and I get the chance to hit that spot, we get the box lunch. We usually get the Spam musubis, hot dog musubis, Nori Chicken, Shrimp Tempura, Hash patties, and Yakitori Chicken. There are so much good choices! All that food goes a long way. I highly recommend Hilo Lunch Shop! Good local food with great customer service!
(5)Anne C.
Good okazuya food. Order ahead so you don't have to wait in line. My daughter and I love the ogo salad. My friend from Oahu loves the warabi salad and fish cake. My son always gets the spam musubi and nori chicken. They have a wide variety of food to please all kinds of people. Great place to get a picnic meal. Go early! The food sells out quickly.
(3)Taryn L.
Located in the quiet town of Hilo, Hilo Lunch Shop is one of my favorite okazuyas. They offer delicious entrees that you can choose from to include in your personal bento. I'm a simple (or picky, depending on who you ask) eater. I went with the nori chicken, hot dog musubi, vegetable tempura, cone sushi, and hash patty. The hash patty was good - it was fluffy and the standard okazuya fare. The same goes for the cone sushi - standard item in an okazuya shop (not to take away from the fact that it is delicious; I was always a sucker for sushi rice). The hot dog musubi was more unique to this shop and was tasty - I love the combo of hot dog, takuan, and furikake. The nori chicken was great because it wasn't oily and seasoned well (definitely not the bland piece of chicken I was expecting). It was a perfect portion size too. However, my favorite item was the vegetable tempura. I was lucky enough to get a fresh piece, so it was perfectly crisp and not oily and/or soggy. I loved it. It reminded me of my favorite okazuya when I was growing up (they closed, unfortunately). I have to admit that I wish it had a bit more seasoning, but the texture was spot on. What really makes me give them the 5 stars is the customer service. There was a line when I got there, but I was expecting that. However, while I was waiting in line, I kept looking and I couldn't see any vegetable tempura available (I was really looking forward to the tempura). When I got to order, I asked about it and the employee said that they were currently out...then she said she'll go in the back to check for me. Mid rush. For some, this may be expected as customer service, but for me, it was a big deal because I really was looking forward to trying their tempura. Lo and behold...she comes back out with one piece of freshly fried tempura. I was estactic. And the tempura certainly exceeded expectations. Totally. Worth. The. Wait.
(5)Jere S.
I visit Hilo every year and make it a point to grab my food from here. Then we go to Banyan Drive, sit by the water and eat. Very relaxing. Also stop here before leaving for the airport. Very convenient to pick up our food, around the corner we gas up the rental car, cross the highway to Airport road, very convenient. Great sushi too.
(5)Austin N.
Overall impression: Outstanding taste and great value for what you get. Avg price: depending on how much you eat, $6-10 for lunch, ~$1/piece of food Tips: -come early! food runs out by 11/12ish Positives: -the food is just outstanding -cheap Negatives: -only open for breakfast or lunch -food runs out -long line (which shows how good it is) -probably not the healthiest (but seriously, who cares?) There have been more than enough reviews on here to convince you of how great this place is. Let me just say that I ordered about 12 different things and they were all excellent. In fact, many were better than I've had at other okazuyas. And very cheap for what you get. I try to come here whenever I come to Hilo. Just bee sure to get there early.
(5)Donna M.
Our flight got in at a crazy early time--think 6am, and the first thing on my mind was food! I was on the hunt to get my hands on some warabi salad, but it was a little too early in the morning, and the warabi wasn't out yet. All good though, since we were already there, how could I say no to all the other okazuya goodies to choose from?! Talk about goodies--there are so many delectable looking items out on the okazuya line that it's easy to go overboard while ordering. My parents picked up a bento to share between the two of them for $5. Me and the BF however, went a little nuts and got a ton of food for $15! My favorites include the nori chicken, nishime, corn beef hash patties, and the spam musubi! Nori chicken is now easily one of my favorite foods! Super easy to eat, simple and tasty. Easily one of my new favorites! I loved the light texture of the corn beef hash patties too, even though I'm not typically a huge fan of corned beef! I loved how light it was, and easy it was to eat in patty form. The spam musubis are absolutely heavenly, and I loved how fluffy and light the rice was. Pass on the cucumber kimchi though, this was just OK compared to the amazingness of everything else. Even at a super early hour, the line here was real! I always get nervous at okazuya joints, and this was no exception. With so many hungry people behind me, and so many goodies laid out before me, oh mannnnnn. The ladies here are super efficient though, and get through with orders quick! Definitely a must visit if in Hilo!
(5)Garret U.
This place is great for picking up a quick to-go lunch. So many choices to choose from. If you're the indecisive type then just do what I do, while waiting in line listen to what other people are ordering and get the same thing. I did that and ended up with an ume musubi ($0.85), nori chicken ($1), vegetable tempura ($0.95), sweet potato tempura ($0.90), and long rice ($1.45). Total with tax, $5.36. Not bad for the amount of food (see picture). As you can see, you order everything a la cart. If you're not careful you can end up with a feast suitable for a small army, so try not to get carried away. But either way, everything I've tried there I liked. My favorite is probably the nori chicken. The vegetable tempura was also very good. I recommend starting off with those two and then just go from there. Have fun!
(5)R. B.
You haven't visited Hawaii or Hilo without coming here for some great local food.
(5)Brennan T.
Few restaurants get five stars from me, but there's something so nostalgic and enjoyable about Hilo Lunch Shop that I must extend a hand of generosity. From order-by-the-piece shrimp and fish tempura to spam musubi, warabi salad, and fried chicken, Hilo Lunch Shop boasts bento-style foods put into a box for enjoyment with family and friends or just by yourself. Checkout a great review by Corey Masao Johnson: thehawaiiherald.com/2014… .
(5)Fran C.
I'm not gonna lie to you.....hopping between islands several times a week is a grind! But one of the "bennys" about traveling, is getting to eat a different places. This past week I had to go to the big island on Monday, & Wednesday. On Monday, after driving back from Kamuela to Hilo, I made my way to the Hilo Lunch Shop around 2 PM. Guess what??? They were closed........can you say "Loser!" Lol!!! Well, I hate to lose and be turned away, so on Wednesday I made my way back again! And guess what??? WINNAS bruddah!!!!! I been to this place several times..........but haven't been here recently. I remembered this place was run by a nice local family, and that the food served here (okazuya style) was all so ono!!! Well, nothing has changed.........in fact, I think the food was even better than I remembered it to be! Only problem with ordering okazuya style food......well, at least for me........is that my eyes are BIGGER, than my stomach! When I walked in, I just started ordering up, and to be truthful, I was trying to hold myself back, cuz there were so many onolishes stuff over there. I ordered the following that day....... 1. Ume Musubi 2. Fried Chicken (2 piece) 3. Nori Fried Chicken (1 piece) 4. Shrimp Tempura 5. Egg Omlet or Egg Foo Young 6. Veggie Temura 7. And to wash all of this down.............a bottled water. All of this for $11.57, not bad for okazuya. I must say, what I really liked about Hilo Lunch Shop's food, was that most of the items I picked up like the - fried chicken, nori fried chicken, & shimp tempura, was that the food was still kinda warm/hot. I found that kinda cool, as if you know about okazuya.........most times the food is served cold, as they usually cook the food early in the morning, then sell it through out the day........when they sell out the items, then that's it. The fried chicken I ate was all so crispy, and warm. When I bit into it, it squirted out it's delicious juices, and the skin was all so crunchy! The fried chicken was not oily at all. Ummmmmm nom, nom, nom, nom!!!! Whoa, feel like I gotta go back again! Lol!!! Lots of parking in the private parking lot. There is no seating inside, as this is a grab & go kinda place. Very popular with the locals, and it was quite busy on Wednesday (the day I was there). Check 'em out gang.........no can go wrong!
(5)Chad Y.
Hilo Lunch Shop is one of those okazuya's that take you to a bygone era where you purchase those tasty noshes to go with your rice and let's just say...a lot of things are fried. Or not... When we asked people what to get from Hilo Lunch Shop, one thing kept coming up over and over: the Mustard Cabbage Maki Sushi. It definitely was different and something to try out, but was it that much better than a traditional maki sushi roll? No, but definitely worth trying and I have to say better than their maki sushi roll. Eggplant is supposed to be healthy right? Well, what if you add a piece of spam, tempura batter it, and then fry it? Not so healthy anymore. It definitely was different and very filling. Flavor is definitely something acquired and on the heavier side. The fried chicken was good, but check out their nori chicken. It was different and added a nice briny flavor to the traditional saltiness you would expect. The tempura is definitely respectable and nothing to sneer at. Service is generally quick and the line moved pretty quickly even though there were certain people buying up a storm. Prices are very reasonable (by Honolulu standards, never really tried to compare it in Hilo though) and you can definitely get your bang for your buck here. Word of advice: Go early, things can sell out pretty quickly and you definitely do not want to be the one to not get some tasty goodness!
(4)Tony L.
Hilo Lunch Shop was our first stop when we got to Hilo from our hotel in Waikoloa. It is kind of hidden about a block away from the main highway, but it was easy to find with GPS. We got there a little before lunch time, but the line was 8 or 9 deep already. Luckily, all of the food is prepared already, and they have 3 or 4 people helping you at the same time. Our wait time was only about 5 minutes in line. We ordered: 2 Shrimp tempura: not bad, but by the time we got to our picnic area, it was a little cold and soggy 2 Spam musubi: good, and pretty large-sized 2 Fishcakes: not bad (a little too much cake part: wish it had more fish) 4 chicken nori: this was really good. Although the pieces of chicken (thigh meat?) were small, I liked the addition of the nori wrap around it. 1 beansprout salad: good (got to have some veggies, right?) All this food was boxed up for only $13, which is a pretty good deal. We were going to stop by before heading to the airport the next day, but we thought we were running a little late and decided to head straight to the airport (bad decision: we didn't realize how easy it would be to refurn the car and go through security at Hilo Airport). If you are in Hilo, definitely stop by here for breakfast (I believe that they open at 5 AM) or lunch for some good and cheap food.
(4)Sarah M.
The ladies at hilo lunch shop are amazing, always so happy to help me and the food is so ono!!! I especially I've the laulau...
(5)Joyce B.
One of my favorite places in Hilo. We made a stop here right before our road trip south. Luckily, there was only one person ahead of us in line. By the time we were done with our order, the line was literally out the door. The vegetable tempura was a delicious huge mound of fried veggies...Nori chicken and Korean chicken were both good. We also enjoyed the cone sushi and fish cake. For a medium sized box full of goodies, we spent around $17. For the variety and amount of food we got, I think I got my money's worth. Any of the fried food is definitely best when consumed right away. Otherwise, don't be surprised if it's a little soggy after a little while. Nonetheless, I enjoyed my food and I will definitely make another stop here on my next vacation. The only downside is they close pretty early.
(4)Tiffany C.
This place was good! Here's my overall experience: Positives (+) (+) nori chicken was really good (+) they have this Teri beef sushi type roll which was really good (+) corn beef hash was good (+) affordable prices (+) fast service (+) good variety of food (+) chicken was really good I'd definitely come here again. Great for a quick bite.
(4)Jacob N.
One of the many delicious okazuya in Hilo is Hilo Lunch Shop. They've got a pretty big selection of items, and everything I've tasted was delish! I especially enjoyed the sweet potato tempura, and the nori chicken. They also have some hot and spicy boiled peanuts that are a great buy. The person helping me was pretty courteous and helpful, but some of my other friends who had other people helping them said that they got some pretty grumpy people. The Good: Tasty food, low prices, big selection, Hot and Spicy boiled peanuts! The Bad: Not in Honolulu, some workers are kinda grumpy
(4)Benjamin A.
First off, if you come to Hilo and want grab some food for a sit down lunch at a park, this is one place you can stop at and grab plate or even a box. Gotta a lot of selections in Local food and can pick and choose you choices. Watch picking, cause it can turn from a plate to a box shortly. Also you want to get there early, because thing can run out and fast as they make them. Overall service is great and is fast, be able to give your order as fast as they put it in your box or plate. This is another place to stop and grab something to eat.
(5)Zoey P.
Pros: The salads and boiled peanuts. Eh: The vegetarian fried things were a little lack luster and at some point I didn't know exactly what I was eating. I will definitely go back for the salads though! Apple maps also doesn't have its correct location.
(3)Dean I.
Okazu style food. Its popular with locals because of the good value and friendly staff, also because of the great food of course! The food here is never greasy and the ordering is fast paced. Its busy here from opening to closing, the parking lot is usually filled whenever I drive by.
(5)Lynette T.
Out of the three bento shops that we visited while in Hilo, this was our favorite. In addition to the Japanese items, there was Hawaiian food too. We sure stuck out as tourists here. "What's this? What's that?" I saw a kamaboko (Japanese fishcake) & greens mix. The lady said it was (a long Hawaiian named dish) called "pipi"-something yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… She gave me a sample and it was so delicious, I ordered a double serving. My favorite lomi salmon was also in the case, so I doubled up on that as well. yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… My husband sure loaded up his lunchbox! yelp.com/biz_photos/rOm1… Funny thing about the item on the bottom right. He asked if those were "Inari" sushi. They were a lot larger than those I usually make and the ones we buy back home. One of the impatient regulars behind him piped up with, "No! That's "cone" sushi!" with an eyeroll that clearly signaled she was thinking, "Stoopid!" We took all this food and enjoyed it on a stone pier at a beach on the Kona side. We wanted to watch some monk seals at play, but they were all MIA. Aw well, food was good and the scenery was lovely!
(4)Keau K.
Easily my favorite place to get okazu in Hilo. Make sure you get here before 11:30am, because there's a good chance they'll run out of food. My favorite things here are the fishcake, tuna-tofu patty, nori chicken and pork hash, but there are so many other great things to try. If you're visiting Hilo and looking to take a lunch with you (to the volcano, for example), I recommend stopping here and picking something up. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Jesse W.
7/1/10: Two and a half years since my first review and the breakfast plate is still the same price ($2.75)!!! Awesome, how places can boast about their customer service! Hands down, the best okazuya around - thanks for keeping up the awesome food and holding your prices!
(5)Jenn K.
I eat here every time I'm back home. My usual is a musubi, ono tempura, shrimp tempura, and scoop mac salad. And they do take credit card, I know some people weren't sure.
(5)Terry K.
Yelp Challenge 365 # 151/365 So, I'm making my way back to Honolulu, heading to the Hilo Airport...... with much time to spare. My brother (my driver to the airport) suggests I stop for some food on the run... and we decided to stop at Hilo Lunch Shop. It's been years since I've stopped here. You need to go there EARLY in the morning. By 10 am much of their delicious food is GONE. I am checking in on my Iphone and my brother heads towards the deli... he says! "Hey! Look at the sticker on the door!!!! It's a YELP sticker.... Yep! Hilo Lunch Shop is loved by Yelpers throughout. Well, deservingly so because the food is good! Not too sweet, not to oily.... okay for a box of food to take on the run... A little trivia and a jewel of knowlege that you may need to use one day....one day..... and that is: Hilo, HI is the hometown for fishcake. They had Amano Fishcake (now sold in retail stores throughout the state, including Costco), Sumida Fishcake (no longer available as the family retired and none of the kids wanted to run the factory ;() and then, there is Hilo Lunch Shop. A long way to go and a longer story to tell but I went to Hilo Lunch Shop specifically for its fishcake. Bought a box of fishcake (about 36 pcs) ; shared 6 with my brother and carried the rest home to Honolulu. I should have gotten more... but all that says is I have another reason to visit that great little city of Hilo.
(5)Federico I.
Where locals shop for heart attack waiting to happen type of food. Not for vegetarians.
(2)Bev W.
Went to Hilo Lunch Shop today. Wow what a change. The food is soooo BAD. The cone sushi is really junk. The fried chicken was fried so long it was unedible. The mac salad had so much mayonaise it tasted awful. The nishime had 2 carrots, 2 potatoes, 2 beans and the rest chopped aburage. Was it supposed to be Umani?? A few weeks back they forgot to put vinegar in the sushi and did not rinse the mustard cabbage koko it was unedible. It was sooo salty. What happened???? Not going back for a long time.
(2)Melissa D.
Inexpensive, good food and selection. You might want to get there early morning though because the good stuff sells out fast.
(5)Casey W.
Best plate lunch I have had in Hilo and been back at least 5 times. Fried chicken is not to be missed! The tempura is really good as is the miso chicken and teriyaki beef. Best place to stop and get a plate lunch to take with you to the beach. There is no seating so you pretty much have to take it to go or eat in your car.
(5)Jay S.
Great lunch. Traditional japanese food with an Island twist. Pack a lunch and have a great hike and a great meal.
(4)Janice H.
Sum it up in 3 points, Miss J: 1) Affordable, extremely delicious okazuya (delicatessen) offering local-style Japanese/Hawaiian foods that you can buy a la carte (by the piece) 2) Hours: Tues - Sat, 5:30 AM - 1 PM. If can, come here before 10 or 11 AM before the lunch crowd forms & before all da good stuff goes. 3) Bring cash. Haven't read any reviews where they take credit card & I'll verify this when I go back home soon. ---------- Definitely the best okazuya in Hilo (as c-a p. so expertly pointed out)! :) For the newbies, okazuya is a Japanese term broken down as follows: okazu = side dishes ya = store A store (delicatessen, to be exact) where local delicacies are prepared and laid out, so the customer can pick and choose what they want to buy (À la carte, as you haoles/mainlanders call it). Items are normally priced by the piece, so watch out! You may find that you want to sample each and everything of what they have to offer. Easy foa rack up one bill at dis place. According to this old Honolulu Star-Bulletin article, okazuya stems from Hawai'i's old sugar plantation days when the Japanese women used to prepare "portable lunches" (bento) for the single men in camp. Whatever the case, okazuyas are a dying breed with many closing down from the Big Island to Honolulu. archives.starbulletin.co… Nori chicken is winnahs! Cone sushi is winnahs! Korean chicken is winnahs! Mostly everything in here is winnahs! I have fond memories of my faddah (dad) taking me here really early in the morning (6:30 AM) to get breakfast; this was his favorite place to go in town outside of Ken's House of Pancakes or the Firehouse Restaurant in Hilo. His favorite was the cone sushi. Come here before lunch hour because the line starts flowing out there door. This place is a favorite for all kines of people - construction workers to state workers to surfers. If you going go beach, plan on a long road trip, or going visit one dear aunty/relative, stop by here for your grinds. Anyone's face would beam up to know that you brought dem something from hea. :)
(5)Leanne L.
Good food... But be ready to order when it's your turn... And don't waste their time, the ladies may give you a nasty look...
(2)Nam N.
Two Words: Nori Chicken. How do they do it? I have no freaking idea. So simple, so tasty, so good. Boneless chicken that are deep fried with a lightly sweet coating and wrapped with a thin sheet of Nori. mMMMMM!!! We made a quick stop into the Hilo Lunch Shop to pack a little picnic to enjoy up at the tidepools. 6 pieces of Nori Chicken, 2 Rice wrapped in Nori, and a few veggie fritters. Perfectly delicious accompanied by cold beers, amazingly gorgeous tide pools, and my honey on our anniversary :) Definitely a local spot SO worth stopping in for. Make sure you get there early as they close at 1 and may run out of the dee-lish Nori chicken before you get there!
(4)Arlene H.
we got the nori wrapped chicken, but everything else that they're known for was all gone by the time the lunch hour was ending. sigh. maybe i just missed what made them so amazingly yummy... the prices were really affordable. they people working there were super friendly. at closing time, they even gave us a few free rolls that they themselves did not want to take home (they have it everyday!) this is definitely one of those places you grab food and go.
(3)Sonny K.
Hilo lunch shop provides delicious bentos that can withstand the punishment of the work day. Fair prices, quick service and food that is both easy on the palette and strong enough for man's work. The Food: I've accidentally left my bento in the sun, direct sun for over 7 hours and it was still fine. I also rarely have the luxury of a microwave to heat up my food and its still pleasantly edible at room temperature. I also purchase lunch at around 5:45 am and don't eat until at least 11:30am. One thing though, make sure you get the styrofoam clamshell bento if you don't plan on having your bento in a cooler. Those plastic ones are not good in the heat or moisture. The Price. The bentos are custom made and you can pick out what musubis and meats you would like off the hot bar. If you go in there starving you will probably spend more than you planned. I have a habit of buying two of everything i pick and end up eating only one of each. The price is fair if you are fair in your bento creation. If you are a big eater or like to load your bento you will probably spend about 8-9 dollars. I can usually get away with 6-7. The service. Hilo Lunch Shop is open at 5:30am. From what I understand is they are closed early like 1 or 2 pm. They are also not open on on Holidays or Monday. Monday is a day that I would prefer them be open. Once Sunday night comes along, I am often to lazy to pack a lunch for work the following day. But meh, minor inconvenience. Even if they have a long line the service is quick. They have a good system of serving customers and all the food is already made (unless you order breakfast or a plate lunch which is made at time of order). They have a large staff and at least 3 people up front to cycle the morning rush. The serving line is much like Subway local food style but you don't leave the shop smelling like bread.
(5)Queenie I.
My favorite spot to stop in at for breakfast/lunch! I wake up early just to come here, haha! Which FYI, if you don't want to miss out on all the yummy, get here early! Most times they run out =[ Suuuper ono! Affordable! & Great to-go! This is the place to stop for snacks for a group on the go. They have a big selection of different things and will everything being so ono and cheap, try one of everything! Guarantee, you're going to like something if not everything. ;] Oh maang, just writing this review has me itching to fly home to stop here. I definitely recommend everyone trying this place. Its my favorite!
(5)Kevin S.
Hilo Lunch Shop is my favorite okazuya in Hawaii. Make sure you order two of everything, and enjoy your bento at Hilo's bayfront. Strengths: - Food - Location - Friendly staff - Accepts credit cards - Cheap Weakness: - Closed during holidays
(5)Taryn N.
Okazuya's are one of the best things about Hawaii. And the sweet potato tempura at Hilo Lunch Shop is one of the best things about Hilo.
(5)Michelle M.
Went there yesterday and the lady dee who waited on me was so rude don't recommend this place the food pretty much taste like the service . Kawamotos I will always be faithful. So sad a place can run a buisness and be so rude.;(
(1)Anya E.
If you like heart attack on a plate, then Hilo Lunch Shop is the place for you. It is among the best of okazuya on the east side of Hawaii. Okazuya is like a deli-style eatery where prepared food is displayed in a glass case and you buy a la carte. HLS offers just about every type of okazu, something to please everyone. Here's a short list: spam musubi, cone sushi, kalua pig, lau lau, nori chicken, cornbeef hash patties, tofu cakes, fried chicken, shrimp tempura, teri chicken, korean chicken, mac salad, etc. For us, HLS is great for most occasions from picnics to the beach to day hikes. They package food by the plate, small box or big box. We usually pick up a small box with an assortment of our favorites for a day at the beach and such. I love their fried chicken. It's some of the best fried chicken I've had. Their fried taro cake bun is pretty darn good as well. If you plan to grab some food here, be sure to get here before lunch time as they usually sell out by then.
(4)Jaynie K.
Affordable, insanely tasty, with so many choices, I just want to bring a huge trough and just have them throw their entire menu right into it so I can bury my face in it and die in happiness!!! Standard okazuya items, excellent flavors! See photos! I need to go back to Hilo just to get some more of this.
(5)Shannon M.
Yet another lunch counter place; you'd better figure out fast what you want because the ladies industriously slinging food into styrofoam containers are moving at warp speed -- in fact, so quickly that they took my boyfriend's order and forgot about me (it was quickly rectified, at least). Everyone on yelp seemed to recommend the nori chicken, which I sense is one of those things that's probably at its best when it's fresh out of the fryer; ours had a little age on it. Still, the outside was flavorful and the inside retained moisture. It just would have been better warm. Thin circles of Portuguese sausage tasted like smoky kielbasa (greasy and good). I got a giant wad of tempura veggies, which were light and crisp on the outside, but somewhat underdone on the inside (this could have been rectified by making a smaller wad --) Massive onigiri and fat sushi rolls will fulfill your starch quotient for the day. Again, the incomplete board menu is somewhat impenetrable to newcomers, and none of the trays are labeled. Basically you can dive in, point to something and see what you think. Chances are it'll be pretty good.
(3)Eileen G.
Greasy and delicious. I liked the taro-wrapped pork more than I thought I would. Their pasta/mac salad was yum.
(4)Kristen N.
Hilo lunch shop no ka oi! The nori chicken, the shrimp with batter, sweet and sour spareribs are so dear to me! I wish I lived near it so I can go all the time!
(5)Amanda Z.
Woo hoo okazuya! I LOVE Hilo Lunch Shop! Especially the nori chicken...soooo good!!! Wide variety of musubis (plain, nori, spam, hot dog), cone sushi, and the normal smattering of okazuya faves. Also recently tried the shoyu chicken, hamburger patty (ooo good gravy), fish cake, omelet, mac salad, fried spam, shrimp tempura and more. Gotta go early before they run out! It's def. worth a visit (or two, or more!!).
(5)Jon L.
Located on a side street just off Kamehameha Avenue is Hilo Lunch Shop. The street that it is on is full of construction related businesses which makes the area it is in kind of like Kakaako in Honolulu. The restaurant is an okazuya or Japanese deli so everything is sold ala carte style. Despite its moniker, Hilo Lunch Shop actually opens bright and early in the morning and closes in the early afternoon. I believe it is 1 pm. Understandable given the locale. Came here after a muggy, sunny and rainy walk from the Hilo Airport. The items offered are pretty diverse. I got here a little later in the day so many of the items I wanted were already gone. And this was like just before noon. Anyways, I got a Spam and hot dog musubi, namasu (Japanese cucumber salad), ogo (seaweed), egg omelet and a fishcake. Price was under $7 and very filling. The Spam and hot dog musubi was pretty good. The fishcake is one of the best I have tasted, while the namasu and ogo were refreshing which was welcomed given the hot sun I endured to get here. This is pretty much a takeout type of place, though there are several chairs to the side to eat. I decided to take it to go and headed down the street to the park grounds of Edith Kanaka'ole Stadium to dine. Plenty of space there with hardly anyone in sight. All told, Hilo Lunch Shop is a good lunch spot in Hilo to get okazuya.
(4)Terrance Y.
Great place for lunch get the Nori Wrapped chicken yum! the Nishime is good too as well as the Shoyu Chicken good Cone Sushi lots of parking heh though it does get busy during lunch, For a small town place this place is one of the few places that make me feel like it's Honolulu as they don't seem laid back and are busy making the lunches and are not as friendly as most of the other places I've been to but definitely worth going to.
(3)Jason N.
Good bento-ya for lunch. Quite busy with long lines but worth the wait. The cone sushi, nori chicken, and tempura are well made. The chicken and tempura are not oily or greasy. Cone sushi is well packed with a good su. Surprisingly the warabi salad is crisp and fresh with good flavor without having that mass produced blandness. The okinawan sweet potato tempura is well cooked, if slightly over-battered, with great taste. One of the better bento-ya places in HIlo for take out.
(4)John C.
Killer place, great food....all take out, eat at the park. Get there before 11:00 or food will be all gone! It's that good.
(5)A. L.
this place is for local tastes, if you are from the mainland , probably not for you. everything is mostly fried, yummy but not too heart healthy and if you have high blood pressure, the Salt content is bit high too. everything is tasty in the sense of fried foods and CHeAP! if you like to eat a bit of everything and enjoy local food this is the place for you. this is not for health conscious palates.
(3)LL C.
delicious and cheap local food. opens early and closes at 1pm. i especially liked musubi, the seaweed salad, the tuna tofu salad, and the fried eggplant with spam. plus of course that korean chicken everyone here is talking about.
(5)Ian K.
Where is the sushi! Why does this come up when I search SUSHI!!!!
(3)Denise E.
A hidden gem for cheap eats, just off the intersection of Hwy 19 and Hawaii Belt Road. We stopped in to grab some lunch/snacks before heading to Volcanoes Nat'l Park, and then once again before heading up to Waipio Valley. We HAD to try the nori chicken after reading some of the other reviews. It was delicious!!! Boneless chicken pieces cooked in a sweet sauce, wrapped in a piece of nori. They all looked like dark-meat chicken; so they weren't dried out. We got 6 of them, some spam musubi, and tried the tuna-tofu patties. The spam musubi was okay ... the rice to spam ratio was high, kind of disappointing. The tuna-tofu patties were interesting -- they look like mini crab cakes; lightly fried and luckily didn't taste fishy at all, but they were kind of dry. We didn't get any on our 2nd trip here. The 6 musubis, 6 nori chicken, and 2 tofu patties came out to ~$10-11. Definitely a good deal.
(4)Jenifer G.
When I'm in Hilo I always make a pit stop to grab some nori chicken -- so cripsy, tasty and juicy. The other items are good too but nothing beats the nori chicken.
(4)Jade T.
Nori Chicken, Mac Salad and Spam Musubi is all I need! Oishi!!!!
(5)Jason A.
The best fish cake eva! Go early. They run out.
(5)Penny P.
The best okazuya lunch plate place in Hilo, bar none. If this place ever closes, my heart will go with it. I have years of fond memories of take out from here. Unfortunately, I usually miss out on this place when I'm back b/c I can't wake up for the rush hour (6-8 a.m.) so when I go I'm either too late and all of the food is gone, or it's closed. Serious comfort food, the best taste, not the best service, but do you want to be busting your butt starting from 3 a.m. or earlier? Me neither. The fact that the food lands on my plate and i'm leaving with all goodies in tact in my paper box makes me happy enough.
(5)Ama W.
The vegetable tempura is delicious, along with the nori chicken and the fishcakes! Get there early to get everything you want. I've shown up at 11 and they have been out of my favorites.
(5)Andrew W.
Three words: Sweet Potato Tempura! So damn good! My wife was born and raised in Hilo, and she took me here one day on our first visit. We picked up a box of various food, and went to the beach. Everything was good. Musabi, fried chicken, mac salad, the above tempura... it was probably the best picnic lunch of my life, chowing down on this amazing, cold home cooked food, watching the sparkling blue waters in the background... If you are in Hilo for any reason, I highly recommend you stop and make yourself a plate for the day. Get there early, as the best stuff goes fast. Then, hit the beach, volcano, or whatever, and enjoy your tasty lunch (or, as they say locally, your ono grindz.) I love the relaxed, chill vibe of Hilo (God, I hope I can retire there someday) and the same goes for Hilo Lunch Shop!
(4)David C.
Sorry, but I don't know how this place got 4.5 stars, the food was pretty awful. The nori chicken was highly reviewed but I thought it was borderline at best.
(1)SENORA F.
This Okazu-ya brought back so many nostalgic memories... One bite of their nishime had me back in the kitchen of my small kid days...making trouble to my aunty as she stirred the enormous pot of Japanese pork, chicken, and vegetable stew. Their corned beef hash patties had the same effect. I also had their cone sushi, nori chicken, fried cod (katsu style), fried ono (tempura style) with tartar sauce and takuan. Hubby had the Portuguese Sausage Breakfast which came with a small coffee. Everything in their display case looked sooo good, but there was a line of hungry customers behind me, so I had to order real fast (not my usual style of umm....ahhh...I don't know what I want????). I was very pleased with the quality and taste of the food and there was a park nearby with covered picnic tables to eat at and ducks to watch swimming in the large ponds. Don't worry, I didn't eat all that okazu-ya food by myself. I had a little, hungry six year old breakfast monster to feed! And we ate every last bite of it!
(5)a t.
We arrived at noon and unfortunately had a very limited selection of food. What we tried was very good. Including a malasada, shoyu pork, fish cakes, spam musubi and sushi. We also tried side orders of cucumber salad and bean sprout salad. Everything was delicious. The server was extremely helpful pointing out all the choices available. She also suggested coming in before 9am for a full menu selection.
(4)Ange M.
Okazuya type place. Good bento. Little of this, little of that. Really busy and long line, but not too long a wait. They close at 1pm, which I do not get as where I am from that is still considered lunch time? The fishcake and nori chicken were my favorite, but everything was good. The service was a little lacking as some of the ladies were rude and huffy to other patrons. The woman who took our order kept rushing us to keep giving her our order and then asked us to repeat it two times. What the hey? Anyway, if the service had been more friendly, I would have rated it higher. Food was good, but not sure it is enough to warrant dealing with service that said "YOU are lucky we are here" and not vice versa.
(3)Travis M.
For Hilo this deserves 5 stars. One of my favs that only the locals know about. One thing thats stands out is their maki sushi roll wrapped with mustard cabbage. Never seen anything like it before and it tastes damn good. Another thing that's really good is their fishcake. Their nori chicken was pretty good as well. I'll definately be back. One thing to note is get there early because the food runs out fast and you'll be standing in a line that goes out the door.
(5)Andrew P.
One of the better places to eat on the Big Island. Here you get good cheap food without a lot of fuss. The nori chicken is super yummy and there's lot of variety. There's always a line and they do run out of food, so get there early for best selection.
(4)Katniss B.
We got here late so there weren't many choices left. Beware that this place closes at 1pm! I think we got here a little after 12pm. Anyway, how it works is that everything is individually priced. I think each piece of nori chicken cost 90 cents. I wanted to try the korean chicken but then were out. So I order two pieces of nori chicken and one shoyu for my daughter. Both chicken dishes were yummy. Definitely a good and affordable place to come for breakfast or lunch.
(4)