Hilo Lunch Shop

421 Kalanikoa St # 101, Hilo, HI 96720, United States
$$$ Japanese delicatessen
(393 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you find yourself in Hilo, Hawaii, you simply cannot miss the Hilo Lunch Shop, a delightful gem that brings the heart of Japanese delicatessen right to the Aloha State. Nestled at 421 Kalanikoa St #101, this charming eatery is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere characterized by the hum of friendly chatter and the sizzle of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony.

Hilo Lunch Shop specializes in **Okazuya-style food**, an authentic Japanese lunchtime experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Japan. With an enticing array of **affordable menu items**, this spot makes it easy to indulge in traditional flavors without breaking the bank. Delight in their popular dishes like the **Nori Chicken Cone Sushi**, which perfectly balances savory flavors wrapped in a seaweed cone, or the **Shoyu Pork**, a tender offering that melts in your mouth with each bite. For those seeking something light, grab their **Cucumber Kimchee** or a classic **Spam Musubi** — simple yet satisfying!

As you enter, the aroma of freshly prepared food envelops you, inviting both locals and tourists to partake in a communal love for delicious, hearty meals. Despite its small size and minimal seating, which often leads to bustling activity, the wait is certainly worthwhile. The vibe is unmistakably local, with a friendly staff that genuinely cares about your experience. As you browse the menu, you’ll notice a treasure trove of options, each one crafted with care and attention to detail.

Real customers have shared their love for this hidden culinary paradise. One patron, Carl “Big C” Hays, speaks to the reputation this eatery holds among locals, hinting at an impressive lineup of fan-favorites that often see customers lining up early to beat the rush. Meanwhile, Linda emphasizes the unbeatable prices, mentioning that most items hover around the $3 mark - a rare find indeed. There's a sense of community here that makes every visit feel like catching up with old friends over a comforting bowl of homemade **Mac Potato Salad** or sharing some **Fried Fish** at the beach.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a hearty meal to fuel your adventures, Hilo Lunch Shop stands out as a must-visit for anyone looking to taste authentic Japanese cuisine with a local twist. The combination of superb quality, reasonable pricing, and a strong community vibe makes it one of Hilo's crown jewels. So, next time you're around, don’t just pass by—step inside and experience the warmth and flavor of Hilo Lunch Shop for yourself!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Offers takeaway
No delivery
No same-day delivery
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Wednesday

6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Thursday

6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Friday

6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Saturday

6:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

393 Reviews
Carl “Big C” Hays

06 Sep 2025

I must be perfectly honest with everyone. I've been inside Hilo Lunch Shop but i have not eaten their food. However, if you like local food, you'll love this place. I've, never heard a negative thing about this place except they might run out of certain favorites if you don't get there early enough. My fiance was picking up food for her work and I went with her. There was a long line which moved quickly. I observed those waiting in line as well as the staff. EVERYBODY in the establishment were upbeat and there was just a positive vibe flowing throughout. I could tell the customers were eagerly anticipating and being excited about getting there favorite dishes. Totally cool vibe in there. Im going back to get what I missed out on. Check it out

Cutis Endo

25 Aug 2025

Awesome Lunch Shop Awesome Workers Awesome Food I Love The Nori Chicken Cone Sushi Shoyu Pork And All The Tempura They Serve

Dan La

06 Aug 2025

So good! And so cheap! So much variety and everything is delicious! Long line but moves relatively fast

Linda

27 Jul 2025

A very small local Japanese restaurant. Love their food! Very traditional old school Japanese food! Price is unbeatable! Very very cheap, nothing is more than $3 on the menu. Most of the food is $1-2! Love their fish cake, fried fish and fried chicken! A lot of local people come here to buy food, not a lot of tourists. Although food is a bit salty, you can order more rice that will balance out. Highly recommend!

Makana Clarke

22 Jul 2025

we always go to this restaurant when we have paddling events and they have so much good food. Great prices awesome customer service. This is my Goto place every time we travel there.!!!

trl1971

03 Jul 2025

This place is a local favorite. It’s like a deli customized with Hawaii’s Japanese favorite foods(Okazuya style). A lot of people get a meal or a quick bite to eat because the prices are so affordable versus a traditional restaurant. The food is made daily hot and fresh. And just to note, there’s a minimal amount of seating. So take out is recommended. There’s lots of free parking, and you might want to Google map this place because it’s on a side street.

Mona Livsey

03 Jul 2025

An absolutely wonderful place for Okazuya style food. They have an awesome selection to please everyone in the family, group or party! I have been coming here over 30 years and have always been pleased by the quality of their food! Whether Catering for a Party, or grabbing a meal to share at the Park or Beach, the Hilo Lunch Shop is an incredible Choice!

Join the Hilo Lunch Shop Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.