Looking for loco moco on Oahu? The classic version of Hawaii’s heftiest dish, the loco moco, starts with two scoops of white rice, piles on a hamburger patty, adds a fried egg and pours gravy on top. Hungry teenagers in Hilo are said to be behind its invention in 1949, but it quickly became popular across the islands with all ages. Now it can be found in many varieties, reflecting the personal taste of the chef. It’s a satisfying meal, meant for budget-friendly and hungry customers. Here are our favorite places for loco moco.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @HawaiiIslander on Instagram to share the love.
Feature Image: Hideout Waikiki
Loco Moco in Waikiki and Honolulu
2238 Lauula St., Honolulu
808.922.2221
Big time local loco favorite, the Aloha Table situated on Kaulakua Avenue offers many styles including Premium Kobe Style Beef Loco Moco”. Need we say more?
3158 Monsarrat Ave., Honolulu
808.732.0077
Mixed plates (protein plus rice and salad) are the staple at this all-day dining room and bakery, but you can also get most of the proteins as a simple burger or sandwich. Save room for a slice of cake from the bakery, especially chocolate haupia (coconut cream).
342 Seaside Ave., Honolulu
808.923.1100
This is rare folks, healthy loco moco, this OpenTable’s Diner’s Choice award winner is located in the swanky Shoreline Hotel in Waikiki.
2299 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu
808.628.3060
Coolness overload at this urban oasis above Kuhio Avenue. Hideout at the Laylow has great reviews for the food as well as ambiance.
2335 Kalakaua Ave. #203, Honolulu
808.923.4852
The ocean view here might outshine the food, but just barely. If you are looking for experience as much as ‘really good loco’ this is your spot, situated in the Outrigger Waikiki.
675 Auahi St., Honolulu
808.600.5612
Super ono food at this place; these guys have it down. Pioneer Saloon has two locations, one just outside Waikiki on Monsarrat and a newer super hip location in the booming Kakaako neighborhood that has some great outdoor seating.
Loco Moco in Waianae
Bring your Ohana and enjoy some brunch beachside! This menu has all the favorites! The Country Side Cafes version is called the Local Moke-O which has all the ingredients of a regular moco but the added bonus of kimchi.
Loco Moco in Laie
This classic greasy spoon had a cameo in “50 First Dates,” the Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore rom-com, but it’s a star among budget breakfast joints on the island, with big portions and low prices. Load up on their loco moco with thick beef patties, they’ve also got some serious buttermilk pancakes and Hawaiʻian-style French toast.
Loco Moco in West Oahu
563 Farrington Hwy., Kapolei
808.200.5737
Homemade ground beef or turkey patty or chicken katsu are your meat options for their style loco moco. Brown or white rice, topped with mushrooms, gravy, onions and your egg however you like it best. If you’re on the West Side of Oahu and need a loco moco fix, stop into this little joint, they’ve got you smothered in gravy!
