Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Plate Lunch
One of the best island standards, these lunches give you a sampling of authentic is-
land food that can include teriyaki chicken, mahimahi,
lau lau,
and
lomi
salmon,
among other possibilities. They are usually served on paper plates, packed to go,
and often cost less than $8. Standard with a plate lunch are “two-scoop rice” and a
generous dollop of macaroni or another salad. Full meals, they're great for keeping
down food costs and for instant picnics.
Bento
Bento
is the Japanese rendition of the boxed lunch. Aesthetically arranged, these are
full meals. They are often sold in supermarkets, gas stations, and in some local eat-
eries with takeout counters.
Saimin
Special saimin shops, as well as restaurants, serve this hearty, Japanese-inspired
noodle soup.
Saimin
is a word unique to Hawai'i. In Japan, these soups would be
called ramen or soba, and it's as if the two were combined into saimin. A large bowl
of noodles in broth, stirred with meat, chicken, fish, shrimp, or vegetables, costs
only a few dollars and is big enough for an evening meal. The best place to eat saim-
in is at a local hole-in-the-wall shop run by a family.
Okazuya
A Hawaiian adaptation of the Japanese restaurant that sells side dishes and inex-
pensive food,
okazuya
usually have a full menu of savory entrées and side dishes
that take their inspiration, like much in the islands, from all the peoples who have
made Hawai'i their home. Sometimes they specialize in one type of dish or another.
Usually small family-run shops that cater to the local community, they have loyal
clients who demand top quality and cheap prices. While not usually on the list of
dieters' delights, the food you find at these fine places is filling and will sustain you
through the day. Some places are adapting to a leaner menu selection. Some, but not
all, have
okazuya
as part of the restaurant name.
To help you find Sam Sato's: When traveling toward the mountains on Lower Main
Street, you will make a right onto Mill Street, and then another right on Imi Kala Street
