Originally Posted by
Orchids
Diamond Head Market and Grill. Maybe a bit more upscale, but not beyond a Sauvignon Blanc.
And it's easy on the guilt with brown rice. Some nice treats to go, too. Monsarrat Ave.
Another enthusiastic recommendation for DH Market. They've just opened a coffee stand as well.
But the best plate lunch I've ever (repeatedly) had was when I worked on Mililani Street near downtown, from the unmarked beat-up gray truck that parked near the post office at lunchtime weekdays. Finest shoyu chicken ever.
For other obscure dining experiences, I'd recommend a little guidebook written by a friend (her collaborator is now chair of the Honolulu City Council). Unfortunately, it's out of print right now, but a revised version is promised any day:
http://www.bookshawaii.net/pc-14-13-...ou-hungry.aspx
Aloha.