




Richie's Drive Inn
About
Island Comfort at Richie's Drive Inn
Walking into Richie's Drive Inn in Honolulu feels like stepping back into a simpler era of Hawaiian comfort food. Tucked away from the bustling tourist corridors, this spot captures the true essence of an island-style plate lunch. The air inside carries the savory, slightly sweet scent of teriyaki glaze hitting a hot grill, mingling with the unmistakable aroma of deep-fried comfort.
A Local Staple
This is the place to head when you want a no-frills, hearty meal that hits the spot. The menu is a classic study in local favorites, featuring generous portions of fried chicken, succulent BBQ beef, and the ubiquitous scoops of macaroni salad that hold the entire plate lunch tradition together. Whether you are a local construction worker grabbing a midday refuel or a visitor looking for an authentic slice of Honolulu culinary culture, the vibe here is unpretentious and focused entirely on the food.
The Experience
Expect a casual, counter-service environment where efficiency takes precedence over fancy decor. It gets lively during the lunch rush, and the acoustic space can lean toward the noisy side, but that is part of the charm—it’s a working-class kitchen where the sound of orders being called out is the soundtrack of the afternoon. Be prepared for a quick, grab-and-go dynamic; parking in the immediate vicinity can be a bit of a dance, so plan your arrival accordingly. For those who prioritize flavor and value over white-tablecloth service, Richie's serves as a reliable landmark for satisfying those island-style cravings in the heart of the city.
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Amenities & Features
Location
1178 N King St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96817-3346
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 14 community reviewsAllen LeongGoogle Maps
Recently
Daily specials are good value. Dine in available. Expanded menu has lower price points. Combo plate $12.99. Not busy at 8pm
KimGoogle Maps
Recently
Richie’s is not gourmet plate lunch. But it’s good plate lunch, a staple in Kalihi where you get massive portions, local dishes, mac salad, rice, awesome service and the added plus of having a drive thru🤙🏽 There loco moco & chicken cutlet are my favorites.
don bGoogle Maps
Recently
Food is good but a long time ago they use to give you so much more. Still a good amount but not like before
P RANNAGoogle Maps
Recently
Kalihi Rainbows with a drive thru window IYKYK🤙 Conveniently located right off North King Street. Known for their Boneless Chicken, open early when you need that plate lunch in the morning since sometimes they have the specials ready in the morning.... Just gotta ask👍 Ordered a combo Boneless Chicken/Beef Stew combo through the drive thru window that hit the spot.... 4 stars.
Ryan BGoogle Maps
Recently
Good mixed menu with a very reasonably priced combo meal. Their two entree combo is such a bargain, and has tons of options you can choose from. The shoyu meatball was very tasty and unique, and with such a varied menu theres something for everyone. They also have a drive-through, and the food is prepared very quickly.
Pualehualani PontesGoogle Maps
Recently
Brah! We came from Makaha to try this place out, and, brah! The gravy, brah! Pork chops was out, but we tried the Shoyu Chicken, Mushroom Chicken and their FAMOUS fried boneless chicken w/gravy. Homemade gravy! Soooo ono! Got to meet the owner as well! Will definitely come back! Oh, and there li hing slushee, sooo good!😋😋😋😋
Russ LacuataGoogle Maps
Recently
Richie's Drive Inn is a must when I'm in town. I grew up in the area, and I've been coming here since high school. Known for their plate lunch, burgers, and breakfast specials. Their chili dog plate special. Gravy all over everything on the Hamburger Steak plate. I hope Richie's stay in business forever! They've managed to stay open during Covid, and they've tried to keep their prices down. If you haven't gone to Richie's, me and my family and I recommend you try it. Ono grinds, great prices, and drive thru convience.
Sang “JohnLee” MoonGoogle Maps
Recently
I got mushroom chicken plate for $11.50 and I got to eat half and saved the rest for dinner. WOW it is a great deal and very tasty. Moreover, aunty working there is super friendly and helpful while handling the drive through orders and the walk in customers all by herself. She is a gem and this place is a gem.
Grandma SageyGoogle Maps
Recently
Recently, I revisited Richie’s Drive Inn after a prolonged absence, and the changes were immediately apparent. Gone were the familiar cardboard boxes of yesteryears, replaced by modern plastic containers for packaging. Despite the shift in presentation, the essence of the place remained unchanged. Opting for nostalgia, I ordered the classic shoyu chicken, a dish that had always been a favorite of mine. The price, around $11, seemed reasonable for the quality and quantity of food provided. Additionally, I decided to treat my mother to a barbecue chicken, although the exact price eluded me in the moment. Upon arrival, we were presented with the choice of dining in or utilizing the drive-thru service. Opting for convenience, we chose the latter, and to our delight, found ourselves the sole patrons in the queue, ensuring a swift and efficient service. As the food arrived, it was evident that the years had not dulled Richie’s culinary prowess. My plate of shoyu chicken was a triumph, bursting with flavor and generously adorned with savory gravy—a delightful reminder of why I had been a fervent fan in years gone by. Yet, it was not just the food that left a lasting impression; the warmth and friendliness of the staff added an extra layer of satisfaction to the dining experience. Their genuine hospitality served as a testament to the establishment's commitment to customer satisfaction. Reflecting on the experience, I couldn’t help but feel perplexed by the negative reviews that some had left for Richie’s Drive Inn. My own encounter was nothing short of exemplary, with both the food and service exceeding my expectations. In conclusion, my return to Richie’s Drive Inn was a resounding success. The familiar flavors, coupled with impeccable service, reignited my appreciation for this culinary gem. As I departed, I made a silent vow to return, knowing that I had discovered a place where excellence was not just a fleeting moment but a consistent standard.
Leon BIGPAKE HoGoogle Maps
Recently
Aloha from da Bigpake; this has got to. E one of the best plate lunch places on Oahu... story has it that the owner previously worked at Rainbows Drive Inn.. but just a story. But the only other place that I know that makes boneless breaded chicken with brown gravy and damn it's Ono. They also make great bbq cheese burgers and have my favorite Green River soda. Give it a try if your in the area.
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