




Matsumoto's Okazuya & Restaurant
About
A Taste of Old-School Honolulu Comfort
Stepping into Matsumoto's Okazuya & Restaurant feels like a time capsule for Hawaii’s plantation-era food culture. Located in the heart of Kalihi, this is not your polished, white-tablecloth establishment; it is a straightforward, no-frills lunch spot where the scent of shoyu-braised meats and fresh frying oil hits you the moment you push open the door.
The Okazuya Experience
The daily menu changes, but the core appeal remains the okazuya-style counter service. You walk up, point at what looks good, and watch as staff pack your bento box with heavy portions. Expect classics like their signature fried chicken, crisp tempura, and shoyu hot dogs that define the local palate. The vibe is fast-paced and efficient—perfect for a construction crew on break or anyone craving a solid, heavy lunch that won't break the bank.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Don't come looking for valet parking or a curated playlist. You’ll be navigating the hustle of Kalihi streets, and if you arrive during the peak lunch rush, expect a queue that moves quickly but requires some patience. The walls are humble, the fans are spinning, and the conversation is usually limited to what’s left in the warmer trays. It is honest, hard-working food for the local community, crafted with recipes that have been staples in Honolulu for generations. If you want to eat like a true resident, grab a styrofoam container, pick up a bottled iced tea, and head to a nearby park bench to dig in while the food is still piping hot.
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Amenities & Features
Location
1323 Gulick Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96819-4174
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 3 community reviewsHerbert OliveraGoogle Maps
Recently
Ono (good) okazuya food and friendly service. Highly recommended!
Michael CrabtreeGoogle Maps
Recently
Had to stop by this local okazuya!! Good grindz, great bentos and affordable too. Got the Matsumoto bento and the Tyler bento. Good portions. People there are so friendly and thankful.
Neal SakamotoGoogle Maps
Recently
Reminded me of old school okazuya. Food was delicious & fresh. Friendly, helpful Staff. Prices were reasonable & portion sizes were larger than other okazu delis.
Jasmine GotoGoogle Maps
Recently
The food is great, the price is great, and the service is terrific. I would definitely recommend this Okazuya. I ordered the Tyler bento and it was Great!!
Karla Ah YuenGoogle Maps
Recently
My favorite restaurant homemade stuff from scratch
Moani LangiGoogle Maps
Recently
Drove from kaimuki just to eat here . The website said they was opened walked in there just for them to say they’re closed I had explained to them that the website said they are opened they just look lost . First & last time I’m ever going there . Rude , and they haven’t even write the hours of business on the door . Waste my time & gas .
Misa MaticGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious! Sells out fast! Come early if you dont want to miss out! Ill be back every time im on this island!
Nelson LagadonGoogle Maps
Recently
Portion is huge and price are reasonable
Trever WolvertonGoogle Maps
Recently
Clean, friendly, authentic cuisine. Short wait, overall positive. Everyone wore masks and respected our space too, nice. 5 stars, and rare!
Sina FinauGoogle Maps
Recently
We heard the Chicken was Bomb so that's what encouraged us to stop on by! Parking is quite humbug as you'd have to be lucky enough to find a spot to park / run in. If you come too late you'll find that they'll be out of their most known Fried Chicken. Luckily, for us they cooked a fresh batch for us to try it! We went ahead and ordered, The MATSUMOTO'S Bento. Here's our break down: - Chow Fun was a bit bland. Hoping to have a better taste... - Ume Musubi was good! The touch of Ume was nice. - Fried Chicken looks tasty however, seemed to lack flavor... And this was a huge disappointment! - Teriyaki Beef was good! BEST item in this Bento. - Shrimp Tempura, straight bready and oily. Comes with no sauce. - Egg Omelette was better than most for a Bento! - Hotdog & Spam is your typical! For these reasons alone, The Matsumoto's Bento was not worth the $11. I'm really sad to say we will not be back...
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