Aloha Wagon — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

I finally made it to "Aloha Wagon" after an evening at "Cinespace Chicago Film Studios". I came 10 minutes prior to it closing and they still served me. I remember telling one of my fellow Chicago Med casting members I hope that I have time to make it to that Hawaiian restaurant down the street called Aloha Wagon.

While living in Hawaii for a little over 3 years, I have grown to love the teriyaki burgers and other select Hawaiian foods on island. Moreover, during my visits to Hawaii every year I just have to have a teriyaki burger because the taste is like no other burger in my opinion. During my initial visit to Aloha Wagon that was the first thing i mentioned while looking at the menu and the cook knew exactly what I wanted.

He immediately responded with "Aloha burger" which is known as the "Aloha Tofu Burger" at Aloha Wagon. I gave him an unsure look, but agreed because I was sure that it would taste similar. Seeing the Aloha Tofu Burger it was that, but on steroids because of its size. Once I got it, I had to figure out how I would tackle it.

Even though my visit was brief because of the time, I left Aloha Wagon happy, plus I got my Hawaiian food fix. To be a little more authentic, I will quote it just the way I quoted it after eating at Aloha Wagon. "Damn, that was a good burger!"

As much as I was bummed to move from the north side to the west side, further away from Aloha Eats, it is even sweeter living a lot closer to Aloha Wagon. With that being said the Aloha Tofu Burger is a great option and trust me you will not be disappointed. I hope this review assist you in any...

Update 12/06/23:

Aloha Wagon moved to a new location over a year ago and I have been meaning to update this review.

I dropped in yesterday for lunch with ny dad and brother and we each had a mixed plate with different options to share. Everything was delicious and freshly made. My favorite is the Hawaiian BBQ but everything we ate was so good, you can't go wrong with any of the proteins.

Service was fast and courteous. Ownership and staff are very welcoming and easy to conversate with.

The restaurant itself is a step up from the previous spot. It definitely gives off tropical vibes and ambiance. Aloha Wagon is a must try if you are in the tri Taylor, Pilsen or little village areas and want something delicious and out of the local norm.

I absolutely love this hidden gem. I have never been to Hawaii, nor have I had Hawaiian fare prior to being introduced to Aloha Wagon.

I do know good food though.. This place definitely has good food!!

They have several delicious items, but i suggest you try one of the combo plates. They are very generous with their portions so a combo plate can feed two people in most cases.

Combo: Pick two of the meat (i suggest the spicy pork and the kalua pork), or vegan entrees.. and sit back and enjoy, along with a side of rice, some damn good potato mac salad and side green salad.

Bonus: Try the pineapple, cheesecake bar, and the ...

This lunch spot is a must try for those who want a taste of the heavenly Hawaiian cuisine. I grew up in Hawaii, and Aloha Wagon delectably took my nostalgic belly home.

The menu felt personalized with the mixed plate option, as I could not for the life of me choose only one plate to venture on solo. I went with the Hawaiian Grilled BBQ Chicken and the Loco Moco. The grilled bbq could have used a bit more sauce/flavor, but the moco drove me loco with the savory and saturated gravy. Adding extra flavors to the meal were the salad, which was refreshing with the french dressing, and the macaroni salad, which was deliciously on point, although I could have done without the huge chunks of potato. Next, I grabbed a bunch of spam musubis, which are so hard to come by in the Midwest. They were definitely twice grilled to crispy, caramelized perfection and leaned a little bit spicier than other musubis I've had in the past. To add icing on the cake, the very friendly owner handed me a purely sublime freebie aloha bar (pineapple coconut cheesecake). If you're on the fence, do yourself a favor and jump it already.

If I had a tail, it would very much be waggin'. Thank you, Aloha Wagon!

Side note: I was able to park for free right in front of the restaurant for my takeout. They also have a few stools inside for seating. My food was still rather fresh after driving 40 minutes back to my...