Best Plate Lunches at Tamura’s Market You Have to Try
If you spend any time exploring local food in Hawaii, you will quickly discover that a classic plate lunch is one of the most satisfying meals on the islands. While many visitors know Tamura's Market for its incredible poke, locals also stop by for another reason: the hot plate lunches coming out of the kitchen.
Tamura’s kitchen serves freshly prepared local comfort food that is perfect for a quick lunch before heading to the beach or exploring the island. These plates typically include two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a generous serving of your main entrée.
Here are some of the best plate lunches you should try when visiting Tamura’s Market.
Shoyu Chicken Plate
One of the most beloved local comfort foods in Hawaii is shoyu chicken. This dish features tender chicken slowly simmered in a savory blend of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger until the meat becomes incredibly flavorful.
At Tamura’s Market, shoyu chicken is a favorite choice for locals who want something hearty and classic. The sweet and salty sauce pairs perfectly with steamed rice and creamy macaroni salad.
It is the kind of meal that feels simple but deeply satisfying, which is exactly what a plate lunch should be.
Garlic Shrimp Plate
If you love seafood, the garlic shrimp plate is a must try. This local favorite features shrimp cooked with plenty of garlic and butter, creating an incredibly aromatic dish.
Garlic shrimp plates are especially popular across Hawaii and are commonly found at food trucks and local markets. Tamura’s kitchen serves their version hot and fresh, making it a great option when you want something packed with flavor.
Teriyaki Chicken Plate
Teriyaki chicken is another staple of the Hawaiian plate lunch scene. The chicken is grilled or pan cooked and coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully.
It is simple, delicious, and a great option if you want something filling but familiar. Combined with rice and macaroni salad, this plate easily becomes a satisfying island meal.
Kalua Pork Plate
Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is slow cooked until it becomes tender and smoky. It is often served with cabbage and rice, creating a comforting plate lunch that represents true island flavors.
Tamura’s offers plates like this for visitors who want to experience authentic local cuisine beyond poke.
Mochiko Chicken Plate
Another local favorite is mochiko chicken. This dish uses sweet rice flour to create a crispy coating on bite sized pieces of chicken. The result is crunchy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
Mochiko chicken plates are especially popular for lunch because they are flavorful and easy to eat on the go.
Why Locals Love Tamura’s Market Plate Lunches
What makes Tamura’s special is the combination of fresh ingredients and authentic island flavors. While many people stop by for the poke counter, the hot kitchen serves a wide range of ready to eat meals that locals grab daily.
Whether you choose shoyu chicken, garlic shrimp, or teriyaki chicken, you will get a classic Hawaii plate lunch experience that is both filling and full of flavor.
The Perfect Stop Before the Beach
One of the best things about visiting Tamura’s Market is how convenient it is. You can grab a plate lunch, pick up some fresh poke, and head straight to the beach for a picnic.
Many visitors discover that a quick stop at Tamura’s becomes a highlight of their Hawaii trip. It is local, delicious, and exactly the kind of food that captures the spirit of island life.
If you are visiting Hawaii and want to experience real local flavors, make sure to stop by Tamura’s Market and try one of their plate lunches. Chances are you will leave full and already planning your next visit.
