Thomas Reilly
Rainbow Café in Honolulu absolutely delivers with their mix plate. I had the beef, fried mahi mahi, and fried boneless chicken, and every item on the plate was excellent. The beef was tender and full of flavor, the fried mahi mahi was perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, and the fried boneless chicken was juicy with a great crunch. Portions were generous, everything was cooked just right, and it felt like a true local-style comfort meal. This is the kind of plate lunch that hits the spot and keeps you thinking about it long after you’re done. Highly recommended. ️
… moreAdamLTW
Good Hawaiian plate lunch. I recommend the mix plate to try the chicken, beef and fish. The cole slaw was outstanding. The portions were large and well priced. Right next door is Hawaii’s favorite kitchen which serves huge refreshing shave ice for dessert.
… moreJ Kang
If you’re in Honolulu and want a solid meal without spending a fortune, this is the spot. Rainbow Drive-In is perfect when you’re eating on a budget but still want plenty of options. The menu has a huge variety — from local Hawaiian-style plates to burgers and classic comfort food.
I went with the chicken burger since it was the only option that looked non-fried, and it hit the spot. Simple, satisfying, and filling. Portions are generous, and you definitely get value for your money.
It’s casual, no-frills, and exactly what you expect from a local drive-in. If you’re looking for affordable, hearty food with lots of choices, Rainbow Drive-In delivers.
… moreAutumn Cao
I think the food was good. Nothing life-changing, but still very delicious and enjoyable. I ordered the loco moco bowl and my family got the mixed plate. Prices were very reasonable, probably the lowest you can find this close to Waikiki. I liked how it had a chill, laid-back atmosphere.
… moreChixie Hao
I tried the loco moco and honestly, it was just okay .. pretty normal, nothing super special. But I feel like this place isn’t just about the food, it’s really about the vibe. The lady who helped me place my order was sooo sweet and welcoming. She could tell I was a tourist and even asked how I liked the food, which was really nice.
Portions are hella good for the price, and I’d definitely come back to try other items on the menu.
… moreJeffrey Cui
When I go home to Hawaii with my family we go to Rainbow Drive in so we can get plate lunches in the original way with paper plates in a paper box like I ate growing up before the change to styrofoam clamshells. It’s in town off Kapahulu where it’s been as long as I can remember. It’s a traditional Hawaiian style drive in with outdoor seating. I got my usual their Pork Cutlet plate which is one of their specialties and my son got a Rainbow Bento with Garlic chicken, mahi mahi w/ tartar sauce on side, BBQ Beef, and spam on top of a bed of furikake on rice. Both were delicious and portions were good. The people were very friendly and the prices were pretty good and comparable to other drive in restaurants. We definitely recommend this historical restaurant if you want to try some Hawaiian comfort food.
… moreBevmo Good
There’s a reason why they are iconic. They’ve been very consistent since 1961. They have the creamiest pure mac salad (no potato) and the classic Loco moco with “gravy all ova!” in a pie box for to go orders.
… moreLife of Rolly
Rainbow Drive-In is one of those places that completely lives up to the hype. I’ve been here a couple of times now, and every visit reminds me why this spot is such a must-try on Oʻahu. It’s got that classic local feel, delicious comfort food, and prices that are surprisingly reasonable, especially for how famous it is.
We came on a Thursday night, and luckily it wasn’t too busy. Parking was easy, and the line moved quickly. I ordered the chili loco moco this time, and wow—it was absolutely worth every calorie. The rice, hamburger patty, egg, and that signature chili all come together perfectly in one hearty plate. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you full and happy, the way true local plate lunches should. I also ordered a bowl of saimin on the side, which was the perfect balance—simple, flavorful, and comforting.
We came with a big group of 13 people, and we actually lucked out with seating together, which I know doesn’t always happen at popular spots like this. There’s a good amount of outdoor seating available, but I can imagine on a weekend or during peak hours it might get packed. Still, the staff were friendly and efficient, and even with a large group, our food came out quickly and everything was fresh and hot.
What I love most about Rainbow Drive-In is that it feels authentic. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be—the food speaks for itself. You can tell this place has been a staple for both locals and visitors for years. Whether you’re craving loco moco, plate lunches, or just want to experience a true taste of Hawaiʻi, this spot delivers every time.
If you’re on this side of the island, definitely make the stop. Grab a plate, find a seat, and enjoy some of the best local comfort food around. Rainbow Drive-In is an island classic for a reason!
… moreTraveling Kupo
@traveling_kupo traveled to a Great Hawaiian food with outside sitting were the locals go. There gravy on chicken and rice broke the mouth. The pork fried noodles is a must try. A large menu with a variety of items to choose from. They do close early and are closed certain days the last time I visited. So look into hours before heading to the location.
… moreJack Lau
Iconic plate lunch establishment in Oahu…it’s not as much as a must try anymore since the average plate lunch all over the island has leveled up in quality. Which is great because it’s not as crowded as it used to be to be. For someone that wants a quick protein meal nothing beats this place after a surf session.
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