What in the World is a Plate Lunch?

Eat more than one meal in the Islands and you will no doubt find yourself face-to-fork with the ubiquitous "plate lunch." Hawaii's version of fast food, the plate lunch is inexpensive (usually less than $7), made to travel (to the beach, at least) and meant to satisfy even the healthiest of hungers.

These build-your-own masterpieces begin with a solid foundation of starch, inevitably including rice (white or brown) and a choice of macaroni or potato salad. From there, the options are nearly boundless, but usually include a choice of several types of barbecued pork and beef (mild Chinese char siu pork and tangy Korean kalbi ribs among them); chicken done adobo (braised), katsu (breaded and fried) or teriyaki style; lomilomi salmon (served salted and chilled, Mexican ceviche style) and more.

This starchy gastronomic potpourri comes with an obvious draw—it's inexpensive and filling. Plate lunches can be found at lunchwagons, drive-ins, diners and small markets.