




Ray's Cafe
About
A Slice of Local Honolulu Life
Tucked away from the high-rise glitz of Waikiki, Ray's Cafe serves as a genuine touchstone for those looking to eat like a true resident of Honolulu. The dining room feels frozen in a comfortable, no-frills era, where the sound of clinking silverware against sturdy plates often competes with the hum of a ceiling fan.
The Flavor of Tradition
This spot is revered for its mastery of Hawaiian comfort food. The menu centers on hearty, straightforward cooking, with the loco moco standing out as a genuine island staple. You get a generous mound of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg with a perfectly runny yolk, and a ladle of rich brown gravy that ties everything together. It is heavy, satisfying, and exactly what you want before a long day at the beach.
What to Expect
The energy here is efficient and brisk, catering to workers on their lunch break and regulars who have been stopping by for years. It is not the place for a quiet, intimate candlelit dinner; rather, it is a high-energy environment where the scent of seared beef and toasted butter fills the air. You might find the seating a bit snug during the noon rush, which often turns into a shared experience with your neighbors. If you appreciate a place that prioritizes honest ingredients over fancy presentation, this corner of the city provides a reliable, authentic dining experience that captures the unpretentious spirit of Oahu.
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Amenities & Features
Location
2033 N King St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96819-3459
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 87 community reviewsEdmir ShahajGoogle Maps
Recently
Uncle Ray’s spot is clearly a local favorite in the most amazing way possible. As soon as we walked in we were greeted with a warm smile and welcomed. The food exceeded our expectations everything on the menu was incredible and made with love. I’ve been to a few islands in Hawaii and this was by far the best food I’ve had. If you’re in Honolulu this is a must try! Mahalo uncle Felix
Winston CubedGoogle Maps
Recently
It had been on my bucket list forever, I finally tried it. The meat was incredible—honestly, I think the prime rib and au jus are the best in Hawaii for the price. There’s nothing better than prime rib when you’re hungry, especially dipped in au jus; it’s mind-blowingly good. It’s a small place with no parking, but the people who eat there truly love it. When I had questions about the menu, random strangers immediately offered recommendations on what to order—you can feel the enthusiasm and loyalty they have. After trying the food myself, I understood why and instantly became a fan. I love this place just as much as they do. At that price point, it’s one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Hawaii—unbeatable anywhere on the island in terms of quality, taste, value, and portion size. My number one prime rib. Cash only. 10/10.
Jeris Yukio AmazakiGoogle Maps
Recently
No parking but they let us park behind the back entrance. Quick and friendly service, the food came rather quickly and you can tell it's a neighborhood favorite because of how busy it is. I like the fact that it's table service for those who wish to dine-in. Lots of prime rib and steak plates for those who wish to eat and maybe have some leftovers for lunch. Gem in kalihi. Cash only so don't forget your wallet!
Mikal Lee TuyenGoogle Maps
Recently
Heard a lot about this establishment and was excited to actually try it. The hype was not disappointed. Foods are absolutely delicious and fresh. Service is top notch. Highly recommended.
Anna YuGoogle Maps
Recently
Had a wonderful lunch at Ray’s Cafe. The staff are very nice, and the specials are an incredible value and delicious. Unfortunately, the prime rib I came for wasn’t available so I had the combo with ono fish and fried chicken. The fish was a large fillet, and the fried chicken were crisply fried. Everything was delicious. It’s clear this is a local favorite. Parking was difficult but well worth the trip if you find one.
NaNi HeavenLeeGoogle Maps
Recently
Cute little small local eatery. Cash only!! Sign sez “ Door Open - OPEN Door Closed - CLOSED “ Omgeee the Pork Chops was huuuggeee! I opted for the bacon / eggs over easy, 2 cute scoops rice, cute size white toast with butter and a side of bacon! Who eats just bacon without bacon onto it off. Put soMê Tabasco in those over easy eggs, shoYu on da rice and it went down!! So if you’re driving by and see the Door open, pull into the parallel parking stalls and have a meal within!!!! 💥💥💥💥💥 Winnah winnahs Bacon n Eggs!! Just let u know, there is a wait time in your delicious food- so no need to a rush!! Thank you
christopher changGoogle Maps
Recently
They haven’t been screwing up my food lately which is good lol ! I still come for the prime rib …but my new go to is oxtail stew which they have every Friday. You won’t find that much oxtail for that price any where on island. The prime rib with king crab kind of isn’t worth it anymore. If you going be that much for prime rib and king crab just go buffet.
DigitalTripzGoogle Maps
Recently
My partner recommended we'd check this spot out and it was amazing! Hole in the wall spot with a few tables there, but it seems like most people go there for takeout or party orders. We were seated quickly and had our orders taken in that time (we knew what we came in for). The aunty that seated us came back right away with water and tossed salad. Our food came out a few moments later and it was great! The prime rib was so soft and seasoned nicely, the au jus that it came with was perfect. Not salty at all and went well with the meat. The rack of lamb with asparagus was soft as well, and was still soft after we took our leftovers home. At the restaurant, another guy from the back came out with custard pie and even that was great too! Not too sweet, but light and fluffy! The owner made some small talk with us as he recognized we were not regulars and he was really nice. Turns out we don't live that far from each other! Overall a great experience and will definitely be back
V NGoogle Maps
Recently
Cozy little café with friendly vibes. The owner and staff were welcoming, giving the place a familiar neighborhood feel as the owner chatted with customers. Service was a bit slow, but I was here for the prime rib. For $27, you can’t beat the value. The steak was cooked to the right temperature and came with rice and a side salad. Worth the wait.
Sang “JohnLee” MoonGoogle Maps
Recently
I ordered roast pork with gravy for $10 tax included and "WOW" they gave so much. It was good but I could not eat it all so I took the leftover for my dinner. The workers are very friendly and helpful. This is a nostalgic place with many memories, a hole in the wall "GEM."
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