Rainbow Drive-In

Rainbow Café in Honolulu absolutely delivers with their mix plate. I had the beef, fried mahi mahi, and fried boneless chicken, and every item on the plate was excellent. The beef was tender and full of flavor, the fried mahi mahi was perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, and the fried boneless chicken was juicy with a great crunch. Portions were generous, everything was cooked just right, and it felt like a true local-style comfort meal. This is the kind of plate lunch that hits the spot and keeps you thinking about it long after you’re done. Highly recommended. 🌈🍽️

When I go home to Hawaii with my family we go to Rainbow Drive in so we can get plate lunches in the original way with paper plates in a paper box like I ate growing up before the change to styrofoam clamshells. It’s in town off Kapahulu where it’s been as long as I can remember. It’s a traditional Hawaiian style drive in with outdoor seating. I got my usual their Pork Cutlet plate which is one of their specialties and my son got a Rainbow Bento with Garlic chicken, mahi mahi w/ tartar sauce on side, BBQ Beef, and spam on top of a bed of furikake on rice. Both were delicious and portions were good. The people were very friendly and the prices were pretty good and comparable to other drive in restaurants. We definitely recommend this historical restaurant if you want to try some Hawaiian comfort food.

Good Hawaiian plate lunch. I recommend the mix plate to try the chicken, beef and fish. The cole slaw was outstanding. The portions were large and well priced. Right next door is Hawaii's favorite kitchen which serves huge refreshing shave ice for dessert.

I think the food was good. Nothing life-changing, but still very delicious and enjoyable. I ordered the loco moco bowl and my family got the mixed plate. Prices were very reasonable, probably the lowest you can find this close to Waikiki. I liked how it had a chill, laid-back atmosphere.

I tried the loco moco and honestly, it was just okay .. pretty normal, nothing super special. But I feel like this place isn’t just about the food, it’s really about the vibe. The lady who helped me place my order was sooo sweet and welcoming. She could tell I was a tourist and even asked how I liked the food, which was really nice. Portions are hella good for the price, and I’d definitely come back to try other items on the menu.

@traveling_kupo traveled to a Great Hawaiian food with outside sitting were the locals go. There gravy on chicken and rice broke the mouth. The pork fried noodles is a must try. A large menu with a variety of items to choose from. They do close early and are closed certain days the last time I visited. So look into hours before heading to the location.

There's a reason why they are iconic. They've been very consistent since 1961. They have the creamiest pure mac salad (no potato) and the classic Loco moco with "gravy all ova!" in a pie box for to go orders.

Rainbow Drive-In is one of those places that completely lives up to the hype. I’ve been here a couple of times now, and every visit reminds me why this spot is such a must-try on Oʻahu. It’s got that classic local feel, delicious comfort food, and prices that are surprisingly reasonable, especially for how famous it is. We came on a Thursday night, and luckily it wasn’t too busy. Parking was easy, and the line moved quickly. I ordered the chili loco moco this time, and wow—it was absolutely worth every calorie. The rice, hamburger patty, egg, and that signature chili all come together perfectly in one hearty plate. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you full and happy, the way true local plate lunches should. I also ordered a bowl of saimin on the side, which was the perfect balance—simple, flavorful, and comforting. We came with a big group of 13 people, and we actually lucked out with seating together, which I know doesn’t always happen at popular spots like this. There’s a good amount of outdoor seating available, but I can imagine on a weekend or during peak hours it might get packed. Still, the staff were friendly and efficient, and even with a large group, our food came out quickly and everything was fresh and hot. What I love most about Rainbow Drive-In is that it feels authentic. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be—the food speaks for itself. You can tell this place has been a staple for both locals and visitors for years. Whether you’re craving loco moco, plate lunches, or just want to experience a true taste of Hawaiʻi, this spot delivers every time. If you’re on this side of the island, definitely make the stop. Grab a plate, find a seat, and enjoy some of the best local comfort food around. Rainbow Drive-In is an island classic for a reason!

After a long day of traveling, we were tired and hungry, so we wanted to eat something quick, casual, and comforting. Rainbow Drive-In checked all the boxes, and the food that we ordered hit the spot! We ordered the Mix Plate with gravy ($16.50), which comes with BBQ Beef, Mahi Mahi, boneless chicken, two scoops of rice, and one scoop of mac salad. The meats were all smothered with yummy gravy! We also ordered the Rainbow Bento ($16), which comes with BBQ Beef, Mahi Mahi, Garlic Chicken, and Spam on top of furikake rice. I really enjoyed the garlic chicken. We were so hungry that we demolished all the delicious food. I definitely over-ate, but my tummy was very full and very happy.

First Impression: small parking lot and tons of cars Location: located at the corner of a busy busy intersection. You can't miss it because the sign is huge. Experience: There are two lines to place your order. When ordering they will make your plate and bring it to you at the window so don't walk away (like i did lol). We got the royal burger, and combo plate. The burger was okay, but nothing note worthy. The combo plate was okay as well. Our chicken was raw though. The slush float is the clear appeal here. dining is outdoors with multiple picnic tables. perfect for large parties. Note: GET THE SLUSH FLOAT. Thank me later.

I'm to start off saying this is going to be a highly biased review. I've been going to Rainbow's since hanna battah days only taking a break when I moved to the Mainland to 'adult'. Whenever I'd come home to visit, I'd always make a stop at Rainbows without fail. Rainbow's isn't chasing fads or IG clout or aura or whatever terms the kids are using nowadays. Rainbow's offers consistent, ono food, and they serve it up quickly! My faves: mix plate, no mac salad, gravy all over. If I'm feeling extra special, I'll go chili all over and maybe get a slush float, too. You also cannot go wrong w/ their chili (better than Zippy's, IMO), loco moco, and BBQ beef plates.

This is a classic spot and comfort food. The food itself tasted good, but I wouldn't say it is anything special. The loco moco patties are pretty much paper thin. The mac salad is creamy and I will say that they give a pretty big portion for the price.

I got the loco moco here and the portion size was huge! It comes with rice, hamburger patties, sunny side eggs, macaroni salad, and gravy. There is only outdoor seating available but it is sheltered so we were able to eat even though it was raining. The lady who took our order was really nice and asked us what we thought about the food (she could probably tell we were tourists). I definitely enjoyed it, even though it was a heavier meal, I think it is a must-try!

We were recommended, highly recommended to go to the rainbow drive-in while we were in Honolulu. It was a quick 15 minute walk from our hotel. It was a fun journey as we saw a lot of native birds. My wife ordered the French toast and I ordered the spam and eggs. Wow, we shared both dishes and enjoyed every bite. We felt like we had a little sweet and savory with both plates. Great service and the prices were fair. We got there right when they opened so we beat the morning rush. It was our first Hawaiian meal and it did not disappoint. It was incredible and I wish I could go back. Be sure to check out my photos that include a rainbow that happened across from the restaurant the sunrise.

This isn't what it used to be. I remember it being so good decades ago. The quality and taste just isn't there. It felt like a cheap fast food place on the mainland. The service was great as well as the workers. The 3 stars is just the food. They have a few tables on both sides to the front. And the parking lot is small. Unfortunately I'm probably not going back.

Glad I was also able to check out rainbow drive in while I was in Hawaii I ordered a loco moco and the family ordered other dishes like chicken katsu and the mixed plate and we also ordered orange passion fruit guava Service here took about 10-20 depends on what time you're going of the day

Rainbow is the place for a quick filling bite to eat- Parking isn't normally a problem and service is quick or do a phone order for quick pickup. Their daily specials are well priced and you walk away hungry! Our family favorites: Today it was beef stew - lots of veggies and tender meat - cooked for a while so good flavor! Pork cutlets w/ gravy - we loved that it's fried crispy and gravy all over! We also love the loco moco bowl - perfect if you can't do a mega plate lunch - Mahi Mahi sandwiches or a yummy royal burger! All in all it's quick - a reall filler for breakfast lunch or dinner

Rainbow Drive-In is a classic spot! It's been a long while since the last time I've ate here but my most recent visit was a nice/ok experience. I got the pork cutlet and it was ok! Good but not amazing. It came with two big pieces of pork covered in gravy. Their gravy was nice and savory, wish I had a little more since it only covered the top piece of the cutlet. The rice and mac salad were average. Overall, a decent spot for plate lunch! I think other items are the menu might be better but you should check it out if you haven't been there before.

It's a throwback for sure. We went on a weekday for breakfast before leaving town. Breakfast was as hearty as a Hawaiian plate lunch: enough for two or three people. So much gravy. We ordered, paid, and took a seat at a picnic table. Our food was ready quickly, and we were fortified for a long day of travel. I'm from NJ and love a diner, and Rainbow felt like a Pacific Island take on a diner. No regrets.

Came to this location originally about 5 years ago. I was back in Hawaii recently for vacation in December 2025, not sure what has happened since my first visit, but not as good as I remembered, which I am sad to say. I know this is a tourist spot, but it is also more of the local flavor you get when on the islands, at least that was my first experience. This time the food seemed just OK and not as good as my first visit. I would not say it was bad, but just very basic. The service also was not that friendly, I remember them being very friendly and welcoming. This time when I asked questions or whatever, they seemed bothered, at least our server. The other employee inside seemed much nicer when I asked for the restroom key. The vibe here is still the same, island style grindz in a casual outdoor atmosphere. Lots of tables around to sit and enjoy the Hawaiian weather. You can get souvenirs here as well as food. There were a couple things people got that did look very good, but mine was just OK. They have changed their Mac salad recipe and it seems they are using maybe Kewpie mayo, which I am not a fan, but I am sure people love it. I ended up getting the BBQ beef plate, comes with a couple nice portions of beef, flavor on the meat was so so, I have had much better Hawaiian food in Los Angeles. Came also with rice and Mac Salad, already gave my opinion of the Mac salad. All in all, Rainbow Drive-in is an institution here and I am sure there are some great things in the menu still and I will try them again next time I am there, but this visit missed the mark for me. Enjoy!

This place was on our list of places to check out on our baby moon and Rainbow Drive-In lives up to the hype! The food was really solid. Loco moco hit the spot and the mix plate was exactly what you'd want form a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. Comforting, tasty, and extremely hearty. The only downside is the wait. We stood in line for about 25 minutes, then waited another 15 minutes for the food. Worth it but definitely plan ahead. If we were to do this again, we'd probably order online and pick it up. You can save a ton of time by doing this. All that said, this place is iconic for a reason. A must-try spot if you want a true local staple and don't mind a little patience!

Rainbow Drive- In was on my list of restaurants to visit in Hawaii, but I'm not sure I would recommend it as a must-visit spot for tourists. The service was quick and kind, and the ambiance was like a typical drive in, with lots of added outdoor seating. The food was okay! I would give it maybe a 3/5. We ordered the mix plate with gravy and loco moco bowl. I think the best part of the meal was probably the chicken and gravy. The gravy was savory and subtle, not like a typical American gravy. The chicken and gravy was kind of Jolibee-esque, for those who have been. Rainbow Drive-In seems to be a regular spot for locals, but for tourists, I am not sure it's worth the walk from the Waikiki area.

Rainbow Drive-In is an iconic local plate lunch spot...on the border between Kapahulu and Waikiki....don't ask why Yelp has them listed as located in Kaimuki. I requested the Chili Moco Plate and a Slush Float for takeout. You have to get the floater whenever you go over the Rainbow. Chili is good. Locals will argue as to whose chili is better: Rainbow's is a close second. Over easy eggs made the chili thiccc. Two thin patties over rice. Mac salad...not my style. Busy as always with tourists and locals. Small parking lot...I will also park in the adjacent lot.

I sure don't remember Rainbow Drive-In being such a big disappointment in the past, but maybe I just put it out of my mind. I ordered the Loco Moco Bowl and it really wasn't very tasty at all. The hamburger patty seemed like a pre-formed frozen patty that was put on top of a bed of rice, covered with not very well seasoned gravy, and topped with an overeasy egg. Definitely did not satisfy my craving for Loco Moco. I think the saving grace was the overeasy egg, which was done just right. Service was not very friendly either, so that didn't help matters. My friend ordered the Rainbow Burger. They gave her ketchup and salt and pepper with it, but if she wanted mustard, it would be another charge. Her water cost 95¢ for the large cup and it was just tap water! I don't like being nickel and dimed at places, so this didn't sit well. I know this is an old favorite with lots of people, but I don't understand why besides it having been around for so long. I definitely won't be back.

Rainbow drive-in is a local and staple in Oahu, also serving up comfort food. We stop here each time we're on the island. This time around, I ordered the chili loco plate and my boyfriend ordered the deluxe plate. It was filling, comforting, and yummy. The spot is mainly outdoors, but offers plenty of seating options.

We love going here every time we land in Oahu before heading to our airbnb! Great food , service and great way to always start our stay in Oahu. You can't leave the island without stopping by at least once while you're there .

This place is a classic and great place for a filling meal at reasonable prices. It's better than the fast food chains. Excellent cheap eat and good place for people to try some local food in Hawaii. I came back after trying this place 15 years ago on my honeymoon. I had the kalua plate with cabbage that was the daily special. The loco mock can come in a bowl as a smaller size and I tried that too. The service is always friendly it's Hawaii.

Visited Rainbow Drive-In while in Hawaii since it seems to be a popular spot to try. I did not realize it was a fast casual style place. We went around dinner time and there were not many people, so service was super quick. We ordered the loco moco to try. It was okay, nothing special, but a decent option if you are looking for a quick bite.

Friends wanted to meet up for lunch here. Easy parking in the lot. Ordered a few loco mocos. The beef patties were rubbery and didn't have much flavor. The sauce was good but salty. Meh.

空港で食べるバーガーより安価なので復路前に 寄りました。大人気のプレート屋さんですが、 朝はお客さんいませんでした。 安価でしたが、少しガッカリでした。 ロコモコとかチキンとかは美味しかった思い出 ですが、バーガーは少し残念でした。

Stopped by here before we headed to the airport, Ordered the mixed plate with gravy, It was all delicious! My favorite meat had to be the bbq beef. It was packing with so much flavor. When you get there you line up and someone helps you out at one of the windows, the food came out fairly quick. Glad we were able to stop by before going home.

As soon as we got off the plane, we asked a local for a quick bite to eat. He recommended Rainbow Drive-In. I ordered the mixed plate with gravy and my boyfriend got the loco moto. This was our first taste of Hawaii and we both enjoyed our dishes. The portions were huge. I liked how mine came with a little bit of everything to try and my boyfriend liked trying his new dish too. I really liked the maki maki and the macaroni salad. Lot of carbs and lot of protein, a filling plate! This spot was more casual and we noticed lots of locals eating here which was a good sign. Lots of outdoor eating accompanied by some birds which became my friends. Check this spot out if you want a taste of some authentic food!

Ordered the plate with chicken, fish stick, and Galbi. I can't remember the name of it but I do wish that I got it with gravy! It was flavorful and the portion was so generous, I had to share it with my son and he definitely helped me finish it. My only qualm is the birds around but I know that's not something that the restaurant can control

We got caught in the pouring rain and decided to wait it out at Rainbow Drive-In and grab some breakfast. Even though this is an outdoor eating establishment, they have the seating covered well so we were safe from the rain. We liked that they offer daily specials, but opted for the classic loco moco to split. The person taking orders was friendly and we even chatted with some people in line to see what they were ordering and what they recommended. Our food was out in no time and we found a seat at a picnic table and dug in. The loco moco was a generous portion of rice, beef patties, eggs, and gravy, along with a scoop of mac salad. It was hearty and was exactly what we'd expect from a loco moco. While it wasn't our favorite of the trip, it was perfect on a rainy morning. It was cool seeing a mix of tourists and locals enjoying their meals here, and despite the rain everyone was in good spirits.

This place is a must for us when visiting Honolulu! Outside dining only and window service. So don't expect to be waited on! But that's the charm of this place. Kalua pork ans cabbage and spam and eggs over rice are our favorites--filling, authentic and delicious. Next stop is up the street to Leonard's for malasadas! Best meal on the island...for us!

Update on Rainbows drive in for starters very disappointed. For dinner I ordered their chili with hot dog . For one look at that macaroni salad over kill In mayonnaise. Also the hamburger they used I found 2 small hard cartilage of some kind and their chili is not same compared to several years ago . The positive is that their customer service is always fast and friendly.

Husband, I have been here plenty of times. This trip we brought my sister and nieces and nephew. Food was yummy as usual. So nostalgic you have to try it at least once. It really has grown over the years. Now has a gift shop & bigger seating area. Service is friendly & fast.

Fantastic great loco moco ! Parking lot outside tables it was 4000 miles away just a few days ago now I'm happy yo have gone!

"I've been a breaker and broken Every mistake turns to moments Wouldn't take anything back..." This place is Groundhog Day for me. I've been here before, maybe once every 3-5 years for no particular reason. Always early in the morning to beat the Waikiki tourists venturing on the cusp. I recall writing a review here, perhaps 5 years ago, but oddly that review blew away with the Mauka trade-winds, or maybe that conspiracy theory that Area-51 does hold the bodies of... Ok, so it's Groundhog Day and yea been here, done that. Seems more spiffy since the last time I was here. Maybe pre-pandemic? Don't even recall what I ordered then, but hey this time I'm craving a Loco Moco with fried egg, Gravy all over, and the AUTOMATIC rice & mac salad. Ok, things did change 'cause that plate is now $13.09 after (HART) taxes, a semi-autonomous government agency that has been building your RAIL since the opening of Rainbow Drive-In, way back in 1961. Ok, maybe not that far back lol, but you get the gist that your taxes are still paying for government waste, and overtime, right? Pau! Back to the iconic Rainbow Drive-In. This is the original location, but renovated so it's actually modern, sans the restrooms lol. I ended up ordering the Loco Moco with fried egg, Gravy all over, and the AUTOMATIC rice & mac salad for my early Sunday breakfast. Since it was 7:02am only a handful of locals were there, but iykyk in a couple hours tourists of all sorts will be in line "acting local" lol. I avoid those hours, trust lmao! Time to grindz, sista! Loco Moco with fried egg, Gravy all over, and the AUTOMATIC rice & mac salad still onolicious like back in the day. $13.09 seems eh ok considering what nearby restaurants are changing for plate lunches! Or if you're really Chang get the breakfast deal for $9! RAINBOW DRIVE-IN BACKSTORY: Founder Seiju Ifuku was born in Okinawa in 1915, moved to Hawaii, later joining the legendary U.S. 100th Battalion of WWII. Gone are the days of the 50-cent chili and rice plates, $1 BBQ beef plates, 25-cent hamburgers and 14-cent fries that our parents or grandparents enjoyed. RAINBOW DRIVE-IN FUN FACTOID: This iconic restaurant is a landmark and featured in The Food Network's Diners, Drive Ins and Dives, CBS' Hawaii 5-0 and Magnum P.I., etc. In the end, it's Groundhog Day for me. It's a good spot in the area if looking for local plate lunches! I won't be back at Rainbows Drive-In for a couple years or? Hopefully RAIL pau by then? Or maybe next time, next time? Cheeee hooo Honolulu! Pls follow my IG adventures: @eric_travel_guru

Three words come to mind:, delicious, authentic and inexpensive!!!! Yes, it is a drive-in and you will have to eat at a picnic table on the parking lot but believe me the food is worth it. We ordered the loco moco and they shoyu chicken plate. Will have to come back again! Three words come to mind:, delicious, authentic and inexpensive!!!! Yes, it is a drive-in and you will have to eat at a picnic table on the parking lot but believe me the food is worth it. We ordered the loco moco and the shoyu chicken plate. Will have to come back again!

This is the popular and original Kapahulu location Rainbow Drive-In that is affordable, fun and convenient. All of the typical local Hawaiian food are here, all the ono kine. Servings are very generous and fast, prices are very reasonable. I've had the loco moco plate that comes with two scoops of rice, mac salad and two over easy eggs. My friend had the mix plate with gravy. Both kine were good, satisfying and broke da mouth. Chee Hoo!

The Loco Moco: Whatever you do, do not sleep on the Loco Moco. It's the ultimate comfort food. The patties are juicy, the eggs are always perfectly over-easy, and when you mix it all with that signature gravy and mac salad? Absolute heaven. The Vibe: It's no-frills, fast, and authentic. Whether you're grabbing a plate after the beach or just need a local fix, the atmosphere is exactly what a takeout spot should be.

Gahh, I really wanted to enjoy this spot, but it's just not my cup of tea. The quality of the food was not there. It didn't have even an ounce of freshness to me. It tasted more like "just removed from the freezer." Service was terrible. The lady at the pick-up window was so rude and got upset with my friend who NICELY asked for a bag. We witnessed her make a face, slam his utensils not just once but TWICE. Sure, cheap eats and huge portions but I won't be returning. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and this one is mine. Rainbow Drive-In appears to be a popular late night spot for cheap eats, so give them a try for yourself.

Opened on 10/2/1961 by Seiju "George" and Ayako Ifuku, Rainbow Drive In sits on its iconic location off of Kapahulu Ave. Seiju was raised in Okinawa and moved to HI to join the army where he learned to cook. After WWII, he worked at Kapiolani Drive In, and then opened Rainbow Drive In in Kapahulu. It served 50 cent chili rice plates, $1 bbq beef plates, 25 cent hamburgers, and 14 cent fries. The Ifuku Family's philosophy was to serve plates with generous portions of hearty, simple foods with 2 scoops rice and side of mac salad at reasonable prices, which continues to be the restaurant's philosophy today. It kept prices low and focused on volume sold. Their target group was the working person and the Waikiki Beach crowd, as it was situated right outside of Waikiki. Seiju's son helped named the restaurant, as he lived in Manoa Valley ad saw frequent morning rainbows, hence, Rainbow Drive In became its name. Today, 3rd generation Chris Iwamura, who is the grandson of Seiju, oversees the restaurant today, which continues to be family owned and operated and sells 1,000+ plates daily! Over the years, Rainbow Drive In was featured on Diners, Drives Ins and Drives, Hawaii 5-0, and Magnum PI. The publicity brought in many visitors (now 40% of all customers) that in 2005, a souvenir shop opened right next to the restaurant, selling logo wear and food items, e.g., original chili mix, related to the restaurant. The successful restaurant then expanded to 4 franchised locations in Kalihi, Pearlridge, Waipahu, and Ewa Beach, with each having its strengths and drawbacks. Rainbow Drive In Kapahulu serves a mixture of Asian, American, and Hawaiian cuisines that include the following: * Plate lunches: mix, bbq beef/pork, loco moco, mahi mahi, hamburger steak, Portuguese sausage + 2 eggs, bacon w/ 2 eggs, chili, beef/pork cutlet, boneless chicken + gravy, spam + 2 eggs, chili moco, shrimp tempura. * Sandwiches & burgers: Rainbow Royal/Special, bbq pork/beef, spam, egg salad, mahi, boneless chicken, hamburger, cheeseburger, hot dog, chili dog, bacon, tuna salad. * Sides: loco moco, saimin, chili rice, mac salad, fries, tater tots. * Daily specials: shoyu chicken, roast pork w/ gravy, shoyu pork, fried saimin w/ bbq beef, chopped steak, bbq ahi, kalua pig & cabbage, beef stew, curry stew. * Breakfast: special, fried rice, corned beef hash, arabiki, French toast, pancakes, waffles. * Drinks: soft drinks, slush, slush float, tea, coffee, water, orange juice. All plate lunches come with 2 scoops rice and 1 scoop mac salad. Fries can be substituted for rice, and cole slaw may be substituted for mac salad at no extra charge, which I like. I normally order the boneless chicken + gravy with fries. I used to order the mix plate, but it is on the dry side without any gravy and there is an extra charge for gravy. The generous plates would last for several meals. In recent years, however, I notice that the quality of the food often is not the same as before, as their recipes haven't changed to reflect the times. While meat items are sometimes dry, the gravy is the lifesaver and yet plate lunches are comfort food that are sold in quantities based on nostalgia. It's a good deal if you're looking for a bargain. The popular ice float is always refreshing to have on a hot day, which I've always enjoyed! I also like the old-fashioned takeout boxes with covers that the plate lunches come in, which may be of an added cost, but is nostalgic to Rainbow Drive In from the get-go. A few years back, my favorite was their fried half chicken, which they no longer offer. It took about half hour to prepare, so I can imagine it was time consuming and therefore, removed from their menu. I wish they could bring that back! Construction workers appear to like their plates. Whenever I do repairs at my home and need to feed lunch to the workers, they enjoy anything from Rainbow Drive In! Staff is friendly, efficient and works quickly; however, during the busy lunch hour, there is a wait to get your orders, as staff is working as quickly as they can and at times, may have a shortage of workers. It's best to call in your order, as it will be ready for pickup when you arrive. Rainbow Drive In has a rewards program. At first, I wasn't aware of it, but was told by staff when I called in an order and paid by credit card upon pick up. Staff enrolled me quickly with discounts on future purposes. Hours of operation are Mon to Sun 7a to 9p. There is a private parking lot for the restaurant that gets very busy during meal times. Just wait on the side, as people come and go. The iconic Rainbow Drive In Kapahulu still sits where it started 64 years ago and offers the same classic dishes! This nostalgic establishment is part of history which will always have generations saying that time stands still and will always have conversations about these classic local dishes! Support local!

I feel like I'm back in high school, where I had my first Loco Moco plate during a summer field trip near Kapiolani Park. Their Loco Moco was bomb with sunnyside up eggs, smothered in gravy, Mac Salad scoop, and two scoops of rice. Wayyy better than Zippy's. After a decade living on the Mainland, I went back to try their Portuguese Sausage with Sunnyside up eggs for breakfast from my morning hike in Diamond Head Crater. They open at 7 and serve breakfast until 10:30 am. The sausages were a little burnt, yet still flavorful and juicy. They went well with the eggs. I also recommend getting a mixed plate to share with your friends and family for first-timers. The service was fast and easy to order through their diner-style window. I love how they serve their take-outs in a full pie box and cover the plate with wax paper on top. It's like unboxing a rare dessert. Parking is available near their outdoor dining area. Just watch out for flying birds and some sticky tables when you dine here.

Just had my all-time favorite plate lunch from these guys on Super Bowl Sunday to celebrate the New England Patriots losing against the Seattle Seahawks!! WooT WooT!! I ordered my Boneless Chicken w/gravy over everything, (over the chicken, over the rice,and over the macaroni salad), something I always ordered here since I was a kid. Never a disappointment, Never a bad idea for lunch or dinner. This place has changed over the years...but, they don't change the way they make our favorite plate lunches. Don't forget to get a slush float!

We were driving back from the north shore after a day of snorkeling, and were very hungry. The sun was down, it was getting late, and we didn't really want to stop at a restaurant after driving for an hour. I had heard about Rainbow Drive-In and after combing through their menu online, we were sold. This place is exactly what it says it is. No frills, drive in, FAST food. There are only parking spaces, outside tables, and the main outdoor windows you order the food from. The prices are probably some of the best you're gonna find on the island, and the menu has many options. I chose the Teri-Beef plate lunch which comes with rice and mac salad. We have many Hawaiian food joints in California, but I have never seen them prepare their plates as fast as Rainbow. In fact, the woman taking my order almost seemed in a rush to get me my food and on my way. They're not unfriendly by any means, but it's quick no nonsense service, and they had my food out quite literally a minute after I ordered it. The food itself is tasty and will get the job done. Is it life changing? No. But it's solid and definitely one of those dependable spots you go to for a decent, cheap, but filling meal. As far as fast food gets, this beats McDonalds any day. I definitely would come back here and I recommend this spot to anyone looking for a full meal with no hassle. I have no trouble understanding why this joint is so popular!

Nostalgia hits hard at Rainbow Drive-In. Nothing beats a mixed plate and slushie float after spending all day at a beach in Waikiki. Here you can find a good ol' fashion plate lunch with ample rice, mac salad, and multiple types of proteins and don't forget about the "gravy all over". I think typically a "drive-in" is usually when you can stay in your car but here you do have to park and then order at the walk-up window. They have plenty of seating but if you ask for your order to-go, you get it in a different takeout box which makes it easier to transport or eat in your car. The iconicness of this spot has made it very popular with tourist, and if you are visiting I do suggest you come by and get your plate lunch fix here. For international visitors, the portions are huge and I'd probably suggest sharing a plate. I tried their burger for the first time recently and it was actually really good- kinda reminded me of an in-n-out burger! There's a lot to try on the menu, and everyone has their favorite but you can't go wrong with their loco moco or mixed plate.

Had to try the staple out it has been recommended by a lot of people while visiting waiKiki and it did not disappoint. The service was fast and the food was delicious. One of the highlights of my trip. The local moco was good, but I wasn't a big fan of the Mac salad. The cheesecake was super rich and delicious. And the strawberry poundcake with ice cream was tasty as well. I just wish I had a little bit more of the strawberries . This is a drive-in and it had a great nostalgic vibe to it . With that being said be prepared to sit outside or take to go. My favorite part of it was the pricing everything was affordable unlike a lot of the meals we had in the local area.

Whenever I go to Honolulu, I definitely stop multiple times at Rainbow Drive-In. I absolutely love the chicken, fish and mac salad. There's no mac salad quite like the one sold at Rainbow. The portions are so generous, served with the aloha spirit! I can eat here for breakfast, lunch or dinner, even as a snack! I love how they keep upgrading, adding more seats and a swag gift shop with all of your Rainbow Drive-In needs. The outside is covered so if you get some of that island rain, you can still enjoy your meal in peace. You must check out this legendary plates whenever you are in the area. My husband loves the loco moco from here, often ordering it and enjoying it outside at the tables. There's something for everyone!

Update 6-15-25. Wanted to have a slush float after our shrimp lunch so I told hubby let's go rainbow drive in. Wasn't that busy I guess it's father's day and maybe everybody is at the park making BBQ. Lol. Was refreshing at plentiful also saw a menu for dessert so I got lemon bars. Will see how it taste tonight. The lemon bar wasn't tart. But the crust could have been baked a little longer. It was buttery.

Yummy food with insane value! While not the greatest or the healthiest, the food is definitely comforting, filling, and cheap while being flavorful. Skip the rice because it's dry, sub with mac salad and fries to share. Seating available and a decent amount of parking but people come in waves so the parking lot can get full fast. Mixed Plate with Mac Salad and Fries - beef was fair but the other two proteins were better. Mahi mahi was good while the boneless fried chicken had a light fry and was juicy. Definitely a greasy plate but such good value while satisfying cravings.

OMG. Soooo disappointing. The flavor is good, but no can believe how little you get for almost 17 bucks. Back to old faithful from now on (boneless GAO) at least you get more for your buck.

Rainbows is a must eat for me in Waikiki. It's an outdoor order up window. It's on a busy street corner with a huge Rainbow. We shared a mixed plate and chili moco. It was more than enough for 3 people. I love Rainbow's chili vs other places. Line was long as usual. Beware, watch for birds. They are vicious and tried to get to my wife's mixed plate. They did a piece of a friend's fish sandwich. They have shared picnic benches. Always catch a good conversation with other tourists or locals at Rainbows. Thank you Rainbow's! Come to Vegas pls. We need you.

Nice quick meal that we had before climbing Koko. The ribs and shoyu chicken plate were both 7-8/ 10. Mac salad felt a little too creamy and salty. Fries were also a miss and were not fresh. Portions were huge and enough to feed 1-2 people! Surprisingly their vegan "chicken" option was solid.

Standard issue and GOOD "fast" Hawaiian food. Grabbed two plates after a looooong day at Waikiki beach. Pro tip: order ahead on door dash as you'll usually see a long line to order. Strictly outdoor seating with several tables in front and to the side of the building. You can order at the window. Limited parking out front but plenty of surrounding street parking. Good and quick eats. Can't go wrong with whatever you choose!

An instant classic. If you're a local, u know about rainbows drive in. But if you're a tourist it's definitely something you should add to your day in waikiki plans. Absolutely delicious food at a cheap price. My go to plate is the teri beef plate. Two scoops of rice, 1 scoop mac salad, some cabbages and 3 gorgeous pieces of teriyaki beef. A pleasant surprise though is the chilli dog plate. My mom and I literally chop up the hot dog into tiny pieces then mix everything together to for a delicious mesh of chilli, rice, hot dog, and mac salad. If you're a tourist and only plan on coming here once I recommend the mix plate as it gives u teri beef, boneless breaded chicken, and a slab of cooked fish with tartar sauce and gravy all over with of course the 2 scoops rice and 1 scoop mac salad (a Hawaii staple). Dont forget the strawberry slush float for dessert. I always love getting one after a full day boogie boarding at the beach. Parking can be a little bit limited and tight but there's street parking in the neighborhood as well. It's outdoor seating which can get hot especially in the sun and staff is friendly and respectful. I usually take off a point for parking and the hot outdoor seating but this place is soo good I'll keep it at 5 stars!