Hawaii's rich and diverse cultural history makes it home to unique eateries and delicious flavors. As a prime example, okazuya, or Japanese-style delicatessens, are popular on the islands and typically feature small plates and side dishes. In the following guide, learn more about these Japanese takeout lunch shops and what to expect when you visit one.

Background & History 

Okazuya is a portmanteau of the Japanese words "okazu" and "ya," which translate to "side dish" and "shop," respectively. These delis emerged during the plantation era of the 1800s and provided takeout meals to workers in the early morning, giving them food for lunch. This tradition continues today, as these lunch shops typically open before sunrise when customers visit to pick up lunch before school or work. Since many of these delis have been in business for decades, they often have charmingly old-fashioned interiors. 

What Do They Serve?

Okazuya offer Japanese foods like maki sushi, cone sushi, and fish, shrimp, or vegetable tempura. Shoyu chicken or pork is also popular, consisting of meat slowly braised in a sweet and savory marinade. Nishime, or Japanese vegetable stew, and namasu, or vegetables marinated in rice vinegar, are staples at these lunch shops. In Hawaii, many eateries will serve local comfort foods, like spam musubi and malasadas, along with American food favorites, such as corned beef hash and hot dogs. 

How It Works

At an okazuya, the food is displayed in pans, platters, and containers behind the counter or in glass showcases. Everything is typically à la carte, so you point to the items you want to start building a custom box lunch. An employee will neatly arrange and wrap the food in a package before charging you for each item. Alternatively, these delis may provide prepared bento boxes for a fixed price. Since popular items tend to run out quickly, show up early to get your favorites.

Get a taste of local favorites and Japanese foods by visiting Kawamoto Store. Located in Hilo, HI, this family-oriented okazuya provides Japanese takeout and bento box lunches to hungry patrons throughout the Big Island. Call (808) 935-8209 to ask about specials, or visit the website to browse their menu and learn more about their food made fresh.