Loco Moco is one of Hawaii’s signature dishes, cherished by locals and often sought after by knowledgeable visitors. In this roundup, we will introduce to you 17 of our most recommended Loco Moco dishes, from classic versions slathered in rich gravy to innovatively unique variations all across Hawaii!
Rainbow Drive-In
A legendary plate lunch spot that consistently ranks among the top places among locals is Rainbow Drive-In. The most popular dish is certainly the Loco Moco Bowl. This traditional version is a legacy that has been cherished by locals for years. Many Japanese travelers also claim this as their favorite Loco Moco spot. A must-try for a classic local experience.
Aloha Table Waikiki
Aloha Table’s Loco Moco once took first place in the “111-Hawaii Award” for best Loco Moco. Instead of traditional gravy, it features a rich demi-glace sauce. According to founder Kenichi Inamoto, Aloha Table pioneered the use of demi-glace in Loco Moco. Made with Kobe beef, the natural high-quality meat jus incorporates beautifully with the vegetable-infused sauce.
Leahi Bar & Grill
Located near Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, Leahi Bar & Grill serves Loco Mocos all day. This rendition features a half-pound beef patty, a generous slather of gravy, some macaroni salad, and poached eggs. The runny egg yolk enhances the flavor with a seductive richness, making every bite irresistible.
Guava Smoked
At first glance, Guava Smoked’s Loco Moco looks traditional, but the patty is made from fragrantly smoked meat. It has a slight teriyaki sweetness and a rich spice blend to give added appeal. Instead of brown gravy, the use of a light white gravy helps to preserve the smoky aromatics to forge a unique Loco Moco experience worth revisiting.
Giovanni Pastrami
Located in the shopping complex Waikiki Beach Walk on Lewers, Giovanni Pastrami offers a variety of Loco Moco options. Choose from a half-pound Wagyu beef patty, homemade Kalua pig, corned beef, or pastrami hash and build from there. This hearty dish is topped with a rich brown gravy and three eggs, making it a filling meal fit for champions.
Forty Niner
Its second location situated in the Island Colony condominium in Waikiki, Forty Niner serves a Loco Moco featuring a homemade burger patty, Molokai-roasted pork, and house-made gravy. It’s a satisfying, generously portioned dish that will have you dreaming the rest of the day.
MAC 24/7
Known for its oversized pancakes, this modern American eatery also serves a classic Loco Moco, featuring a 7-ounce Angus beef patty, eggs, and mushroom-infused demi-glace sauce. Break the yolk and mix it all together for an irresistible bite.
Lulu’s Waikiki
If you want a Loco Moco with an ocean view but without steep oceanfront eatery prices, Lulu’s Waikiki is the place to go. The signature “Lulu Moco” adds to a Wagyu beef patty some Kalua pork, all smothered with house-made gravy and topped with a perfectly cooked egg.
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
Even the famous Wolfgang’s Steakhouse offers a delectable Loco Moco. Featuring a juicy steak-quality beef patty, this dish is available exclusively at the Hawaii location, and only during lunch. With a price point of under $20, it is a steal of a deal for those wanting a dining experience in a high-end steakhouse on a shoestring budget.
Genius Lounge
A trendy restaurant and bar serving a unique Loco Moco presented in a sizzling stone bowl. Made with 100% beef and a homemade demi-glace sauce, this dish arrives bubbling hot, creating a fun dining experience that requires a little bit of caution.
ShoreFyre
Popular among local surfers, ShoreFyre is located in the International Market Place. The “50/50 Loco Moco” features a patty made with half Angus beef and half applewood-smoked bacon. Who can resist bacon on anything? This juicy and flavorful combination is a must-try.
Liliha Bakery
Located in the International Market Place, Liliha Bakery serves a well-balanced Loco Moco with a lightly seasoned gravy that blends traditional brown gravy with a luxe demi-glace. The char-grilled patty adds a smoky depth, and you can upgrade your rice to fried rice for an even tastier version.
Koko Head Cafe
The popular brunch spot in Kaimuki offers a skillet-style “Koko Moco.” This unique twist includes the traditional local beef patty, with a mushroom gravy, eggs, and a side of kimchi tempura. Served on garlic rice, this version boasts a crispy, bibimbap-like texture.
Moena Cafe
A favorite among Hawaii-based celebrities, Moena Cafe offers a Loco Moco featuring tender short rib steak instead of a burger patty. The slow-braised meat melts in your mouth, making this a favorite among repeat visitors. You can also switch your rice to fried rice for an additional $3, and try it with a dash of Tabasco too.
Basalt (Duke’s Lane Market & Eatery)
An upscale twist on Loco Moco is offered at Basalt, the restaurant operated by ABC Stores. This rendition features a wagyu beef patty served over bacon-fried rice, topped with mushroom gravy and two local eggs for a refined take on Hawaii’s beloved comfort food.
Scratch Kitchen & Meatery
This bustling café has been a local favorite since its opening in 2017. The protein options for the Loco Moco include a marinated Filipino pork adobo or a spicy Scratch chili version. And instead of white rice, Scratch offers garlic rice or an optional upgrade to Puerto Rican-style Gandule rice.
Heavenly Island Lifestyle
For a health approach to Loco Moco, Heavenly Island Lifestyle is the place to go. Made with local beef, eggs, and a soy-ginger sauce, it’s served over multigrain rice with an abundance of vegetables. This is perfect for those who seek a more nutritious take on the local classic.
This is a great starter checklist for those exploring the world of Loco Mocos. Be sure to check each restaurant’s website for coupons, directions, and reservation options.
