Liliha Drive Inn — Restaurant in Honolulu

Not sure if I should be comparing, but I think this place is definitely better than Rainbow Drive-In in terms of flavors!

Mixed Plate: I wanted to try both the hamburger steak and chili, so I ordered it with Hamburger Steak, Teri Steak and Chili. And let me tell you the hamburger steak with gravy was really good! I could skip on the Teri Steak and Chili tbh.

Shrimp Garlic: This was delicious! I think I love garlic too much, so I wish it had more garlic. I ordered the healthy version which came with brown rice and lettuce, cucumber and tomato.

Mochiko Chicken: I was torn between chicken katsu and mochiko chicken, but since never tried mochiko - I decided to go with it. Because it was a delivery, it wasn't crunchy at all, but the flavor was still pretty good, especially with the sauce that comes with it.

Giving 5 stars since I actually had low expectations and it exceeded it! The reason for that is I was so hyped for Rainbow Drive-In and it didn't meet my expectations, so I thought Liliha might also let me down. GLAD IT DIDNT! (If I hadn't tried Rainbow Drive-In, I'd have given...

My love of Hawaiian food and BBQ runs long and deep but I have never been to Hawaii until now. On the bus to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, my husband saw the “Hawaiian BBQ” sign for this inconspicuous diner on the corner, so that meant we just had to try it on the way back.

Best. Decision. Ever.

The entry door is on the parking lot side, and there’s about 3 four person tables inside. It’s the old school Asian restaurant feel you don’t find anymore - faded pictures of the menu options on the wall, older chairs and tables, and one person at the counter with another in the kitchen.

There is a vast menu but we decided on two ‘minis’ - bbq ribs and mochiko chicken - they were anything but mini. My goodness the portions were huge, we were only able to finish one container. The mochiko chicken was sooooo crispy and moist and addictive, unlike any mochiko chicken I’ve had outside of Hawaii. The bbq ribs were meaty, and soft, and the char was beautiful. I want to try more of the menu.

100000% will be revisiting before heading back home. Killer food at this hole in the wall....

Picked up lunch for son and I. We had a Chicke. Katsu Plate and a Honey Chicken Plate.

It was just before noon on a Tuesday, so it was not busy. The woman behind the counter was very friendly and patient.

First impression was that I was amazed at how heavy the bag was with just two plate lunches, especially for the price.

As we ate, felt that the Katsu was on par with another local drive in famous for plate lunches. The honey checken was unique and had good flavor. We were very happy and very full. At this point, it was a 5 star experience.

An hour later, I realized that I had downed 40oz of water and was drinking more. Had a dull headache as well. Classic OD on MSG. No wonder it all tasted so great! Given the aftermath, I went with a 3 star rating. I think 30 years ago, I probably would not have noticed but a bit older now, so I am more sensitive to MSG.

I would be willing to give them a second chance in case this was a...