- Attraction: Aloha Kitchen
- Location: 2950 S Alma School Rd, Suite 12, Mesa, AZ 85210
- Industry: Hawaiian Restaurant
- Website: https://alohakitchen.com/
Situated in an unassuming Mesa strip mall, a family-owned Hawaiian restaurant has been quietly serving some of the most authentic island cuisine in Arizona for nearly four decades.
Aloha Kitchen doesn’t just transport your taste buds to the Pacific islands – it delivers the genuine aloha spirit that makes Hawaiian dining culture so special, complete with generous portions that could feed a small army and flavors that have earned them a coveted spot on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”
Since 1986, this fast-casual gem has been perfecting the art of Hawaiian plate lunches, mixing traditional island favorites with Korean, Chinese, and Japanese influences that reflect Hawaii’s diverse culinary heritage.
Signature Hawaiian Plate Lunches
The Classic Mixed Plates: You’ll discover that Aloha Kitchen’s mixed plates are the heart of their menu, featuring your choice of proteins served with two generous scoops of steamed rice and either creamy macaroni-potato salad or fresh green salad.
The portions are massive – easily enough for two meals if you’re not completely starving. Popular combinations include the teriyaki chicken with bulgogi beef, or the crowd-favorite chicken katsu paired with kalbi short ribs.
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Keep Exploring →Teriyaki Chicken Perfection: The teriyaki chicken here sets the gold standard for what this dish should taste like. You’ll find perfectly charbroiled boneless chicken that’s been marinated in their special island teriyaki sauce, creating those beautiful black-edged grill marks that add a smoky depth to every bite.
The meat stays incredibly tender while the sauce provides that perfect balance of sweet and savory that defines authentic Hawaiian cooking.
Korean-Style Bulgogi: The bulgogi beef showcases the Korean influence that’s so integral to Hawaiian cuisine. This marinated sirloin delivers rich, complex flavors that pair beautifully with the cooling macaroni salad.
Many visitors say it tastes exactly like what they remember from authentic plate lunch spots in Hawaii, with that distinctive char and perfectly seasoned meat.
Chicken Katsu Excellence: You’ll love the chicken katsu – crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken that stays incredibly tender inside.
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Discover MoreThe coating achieves that perfect crunch without being greasy, and it pairs wonderfully with the tangy katsu sauce. This dish alone has converted many visitors into regular customers.
Guy Fieri’s Featured Specialties
The Famous Manapua: Guy Fieri raved about these steamed pork buns during his visit, and for good reason. You’ll bite into pillowy-soft bread filled with savory barbecue pork that’s been seasoned to perfection.
These Chinese-Hawaiian fusion treats are like discovering a delicious secret – the bread is impossibly fluffy while the filling delivers layers of flavor that make you understand why this dish has remained popular for generations.
Kalbi Short Ribs: These Korean-style marinated short ribs earned serious praise on Triple D, and one taste explains why.
The beef falls off the bone while delivering that perfect balance of sweet and savory that defines great kalbi. You’ll taste the complex marinade in every bite, with hints of soy, garlic, and subtle sweetness that make this dish absolutely addictive.
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Keep Exploring →Fried Saimin Noodles: The fried saimin represents Hawaii’s unique take on Asian noodle soup, transformed into a satisfying stir-fried dish. You’ll get thick, chewy noodles tossed with vegetables and your choice of protein in a flavorful sauce that captures the essence of island comfort food.
Other Considerations
Authentic Island Vibe: The atmosphere captures that laid-back Hawaiian spirit perfectly. You’ll notice the friendly, unhurried pace that reflects true island time, where meals are meant to be enjoyed rather than rushed. The space accommodates both quick lunches and leisurely meals with friends.
Outstanding Value Pricing: You’ll find prices ranging from $7.95 to $10.50 for massive plate lunches that easily provide two meals worth of food. Compared to Hawaii’s restaurant prices, this represents incredible value while maintaining authentic quality.
Mini plates are available for lighter appetites at $4.95 to $6.95, making this accessible for any budget.
Limited Seating Space: The restaurant’s success has outgrown its intimate space, so you might need to take your feast to-go during busy periods. However, the efficient counter service keeps things moving smoothly, and the staff handles crowds with impressive grace.
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Discover MoreParking Challenges: You’ll want to arrive early or be prepared to circle the strip mall parking lot during peak hours. The restaurant’s popularity means parking can be competitive, but most visitors agree that securing a spot is worth the effort.
Special Menu Days: Wednesday and Saturday bring special Hawaiian plates featuring kalua pig with cabbage, chicken long rice, and lomilomi salmon – dishes that transport Hawaiian expats straight back to the islands. These limited-time offerings sell out quickly among those who know to look for them.
Aloha Kitchen
📍 2950 S Alma School Rd, Suite 12, Mesa, AZ 85210
