$10 Eats: Loaded Breakfast Burrito, Mini Mix Plate and Classic Loco Moco
New series! Join Frolic’s intern on his quest to find the best food under $10.
Welcome to $10 Eats, my journey to find filling dishes you can savor without breaking the bank. Today, I’m taking you to three must-visit places not far from the UH-Mānoa campus.
SEE ALSO: Beer Lab Opens a Fun Bar and Lounge with Food at Puck’s Alley
Rainbow Drive-In’s Loco Moco Bowl
Photo: Lucas Kamata
First up is the Loco Moco Bowl from Rainbow Drive-In, a true local classic for just $7.50. Picture this: a mound of rice topped with a seasoned hamburger patty, all smothered with that rich brown gravy. Add a perfectly cooked egg of your choice on top, and you have the ultimate comfort food. It’s a smaller version of the famous loco plate, but the flavors are the same, incredibly bold and satisfying. This dish is a must for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, and trust me: It’s a decent portion that will leave you feeling full and happy. Also at Rainbow’s, things like the Chili Dog Boat and Rainbow Royal with double patties are less than $10.
Multiple locations, (808) 737-0177, rainbowdrivein.com, @rainbowdrivein
Okata Bento’s Mini Mix Plates
Photo: Lucas Kamata
Next, let’s head to Okata Bento in Kaimukī for the Mini Mix Plate featuring your choice of meat. From the menu of beef teriyaki, char siu chicken, tonkatsu and other hard-to-choose classics, I decide on the Mahi Mahi and Teriyaki Chicken for $9.50. This is a delightful flavor combo. The Mahi Mahi is expertly grilled, while the teriyaki chicken is sweet and savory with a nice char. What’s unique about Okata Bento is that your meal is prepared fresh when you order it, ensuring you get a piping hot experience every time. Just remember to bring some cash, as Okata doesn’t accept plastic.
3616 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 737-6063, @okatabento
Burritos at Koa Pancake House
Photo: Lucas Kamata
Last, let’s not forget the massive burritos at Koa Pancake House. This is a tossup: My friends swear by the Vinha D’alhos Burrito with fried potatoes, onions and eggs for $7.50, while my go-to is the Koa Breakfast Burrito with Portuguese sausage, cheese, eggs and potatoes for $6.95. There’s also a Veggie Burrito. These burritos are enormous! The vinha d’alhos one is stuffed with marinated pork loin that bursts with flavor in a soft tortilla. Each bite offers a combination of savory flavors and textures that make your taste buds dance. It’s perfect for anyone with a good appetite but not a hefty wallet.
Multiple locations, (808) 739-7778, koapancakehouse.com, @koapancakehouse
Hungry yet? Stay tuned for Part 2 because I’m exploring options for cheap burgers and pizza.
