Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Islanders Drive in

3.0(2 community reviews)
Budget ($)

About

Discover Islanders Drive in, offering the best Barbecue experience in Honolulu. Enjoy Budget ($) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

Island Flavors at a Kaimuki Landmark

Stepping into Islanders Drive-In feels like catching a time capsule in the heart of the Kaimuki neighborhood. This isn't your polished, modern bistro; it is a straightforward, no-frills kitchen that prioritizes the heavy, satisfying portions locals crave. The air inside is perpetually thick with the savory scent of grilled meats and bubbling stews, a comforting aroma that greets you the moment you step out of the humid Honolulu heat.

The Local Plate Lunch Experience

The menu remains a classic representation of traditional Hawaii plate lunch culture. Patrons flock here for the beef stew and the signature fried chicken, which boasts a crispy, salty exterior that pairs perfectly with two scoops of white rice. You won't find avant-garde plating here; instead, you get styrofoam or plastic containers piled high, intended for quick consumption on a tailgate or a park bench.

What to Expect When You Visit

The atmosphere is bustling and decidedly unpretentious, making it a reliable spot for construction crews and neighborhood families grabbing a quick, affordable meal. It captures the authentic pulse of Oʻahu, away from the glitz of Waikiki. Be prepared for a bit of a challenge when finding a spot for your car, as the limited parking in this busy pocket of the city often requires a quick lap around the block. If you appreciate a place where the staff remembers a regular face and the music is kept at a low, background hum, this drive-in serves up exactly what you need without the fanfare.

Photos

Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Islanders Drive in - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Location

848 Ala Lilikoi St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96818-2144

Directions

Reviews

Showing 10 of 2 community reviews
C

Corina MayoGoogle Maps

Recently

A native who was born and raised on the Islands, had a negative experience at this restaurant. First off, employee taking orders never greeted or smiled. She looked like she did not want to be there. The food was average. The teriyaki beef was tough and thick. (Not thin cut like the worker said). It had no taste, I went and got more teriyaki sauce. The combination plates teriyaki chicken was tasteless. The only okay item, was the ribs. I don't recommend dining at this location.

B

Brianne YamadaGoogle Maps

Recently

I’ve confirmed this is the same place I enjoyed as a kid, still serving my favorite chicken fried rice! Such a local gem as one of my fav local businesses in the area. Five stars! Give the chicken fried rice a try!

R

Russ LacuataGoogle Maps

Recently

No frills, nothing fancy hole in the wall type. Very casual, all made fresh made to order. I order the Honey Garlic Chicken Regular Plate. It came with 2 scoops or rice, and Mac Salad. Mac Salad was average, the chicken is too much breading with hot honey drizzled on top of the chicken. Portion size was good for the price. Most customers are takeout, but you dine in as well.

O

On Target Precision LocatingGoogle Maps

Recently

Best breakfast ever! Portuguese sausage, bacon, eggs + rice. The other menu items also supreme.

J

Janelle OcotGoogle Maps

Recently

Local BBQ place that has good burgers and a mixed BBQ plate! I like their mac salad! Pay in cash to save 3% surcharge.

T

Thomas MeryGoogle Maps

Recently

My family and I ordered burgers with the delux add on. No frills. Affordable, simple burger that filled out hunger cravings. Interior is bland, hand written signs are postered on the walls, no outlets and no restroom.

J

Jay SchimkeGoogle Maps

Recently

Stopped in at the Islander Drive Inn for a quick bite. Had a mini loco moco and it hit the spot. Right proportion of gravy to meat and rice. The Mac salad was very good. Next time I will get the full plate so I can have two eggs. Place was clean and the guy who helped me was very nice.

L

Leila DoGoogle Maps

Recently

My family and I live fairly close by. We decided to give this place a try one night and we loved the food. When I arrived to pick up my order I was greeted with a warm welcome. The cashier was nice and polite to me just like she was when I ordered on the phone. unfortunately I didn’t catch her name. The food was still nice and warm when I got home. My family and I agreed the food was good and saved this place as a place we’d like to come back to. I went today to grab a late lunch for us. Was still yummy and the food was nice and warm. The portions are good, but then again I don’t eat much so what may be a good portion for me might not be considered a good portion for you. I don’t have to wait long and I’m always greeted when I come inside. The same cashier as last time was working today. I definitely need to ask for her name next time lol!!! Because there will be a next time!

R

RileyGoogle Maps

Recently

According to my sibling, this place had the best honey garlic chicken. Unfortunately, s/he didn't order the honey garlic chicken, so s/he kept stealing mine! I tried some of her/his chicken katsu though, and it was delicious! Unfortunately, the restaurant took a while to finish my order and had to confirm what I ordered too. Regardless, lovely meal. I just wish they used less plastic.

B

Brian JohnsonGoogle Maps

Recently

Fantastic spot for some delicious food. We took the family here on the way back to Colorado and had an awesome dinner. This is a smaller establishment but it still felt spacious. We tried steak, chicken, coconut shrimp, and fried oysters. This is tucked away in a shopping center and was difficult to find but worth locating. The cashier was exceptionally patient as our kids took additional time to figure out what they wanted.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Islanders Drive in

Common questions from diners about Islanders Drive in in Honolulu.

They serve barbecue dishes.

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