How to Eat Out 3 Times a Day on Oahu for Under $30
Hawaii is often labeled as an expensive place to live or visit, but if you know where to go, you can eat amazing local food three times a day for under $30 total... no fast food required (fast food is not even cheap lol). Here’s how to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on a budget while still getting an authentic taste of the islands.
Breakfast – Start Your Day Right (Under $8)
Liliha Bakery (~$6.28)
Liliha Bakery is a cheat code for living in Hawaii. The bakery side is perfect for grabbing an affordable and satisfying breakfast. I usually go for a mini pizza and a poi donut—a sweet, fluffy local favorite made with taro. This combo fills me up for just $6.28. The Poi donut is the best tasting, healthiest donut I have ever had. I don't even know how to describe how amazing this donut is, the texture of the poi dough and it being good for digestion is why I always have to get one when I am here. The maple bacon donut is also unique and a must try.
📍 Multiple locations, including Waikiki & Nimitz
Koa Pancake House (~$7-$9)
Koa Pancake House is a go-to breakfast spot for locals and visitors alike. Their generous portions and affordable prices make it easy to fuel up for the day without breaking the bank. A classic choice is the banana pancakes or the Portuguese sausage with eggs and rice... both delicious options under $9. I usually get the breakfast burrito and sub out the ham for bacon... this never costs me more than $7 dollars with tip included. The breakfast burritos are homemade and extremely high quality and they come with a cup of sour cream and a cup of salsa on the side. I usually call ahead and order because I am always on the move, they always have it ready to go within 7-10 minutes. The location in Kaimuki has very limited parking so I stay away from there. The Hawaii Kai location is located in a strip mall with sufficient parking. The Salt Lake Location is where I typically go because it is by my home. This is a convenient spot go if you are on the way to Pearl Harbor or on the way back to Waikiki from that direction. The Wahiawa location is most convenient on an early trip to the North Shore or when you are heading back to the city. If you are staying in Ko'Olina the Kapolei location is very close by.📍 Multiple locations, including Kaimuki, Kapolei, Wahiawa, and Hawaii Kai
Leonard’s Bakery (~$2-$5)
If you have a sweet tooth in the morning, Leonard’s malasadas (Portuguese-style fried doughnuts) are a must-try. They’re hot, fluffy, and coated in sugar, with fillings like custard, haupia (coconut), and dobash (chocolate). A couple of malasadas with a coffee will run you under $5.
📍 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Lunch – Filling & Affordable Meals (Under $11)
Foodland Poke Bowl (~$9-$11)
A poke bowl from Foodland is one of the most affordable, high-quality meals you can get in Hawaii. You get fresh ahi, spicy mayo, shoyu sauce, or other local flavors over rice, and a one-choice bowl usually costs $9-$11. Pro tip: If you sign up for the Maika’i rewards card, you get a discount!
📍 Multiple locations across Oahu
Da Spot (~$9-$12)
Da Spot serves a mix of Mediterranean and Hawaiian fusion food, offering huge portions for the price. Their curry plates, falafel, and wraps are packed with flavor. Most meals are $9-$12, and you can get a full plate of food for around $10.
📍 908 Pumehana St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Marugame Udon (~$5-$10)
If you’re craving Japanese comfort food on a budget, Marugame Udon in Waikīkī offers handmade udon noodles with broth, tempura, and rice bowls for under $10. Their Kake Udon starts at $5, and you can add toppings without breaking the bank.
📍 2310 Kuhio Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Dinner – A Satisfying Feast for Less (Under $10)
Keneke’s (~$5-$10)
A true local plate lunch spot, Keneke’s serves massive portions of Hawaiian food for cheap. You can get a meal with teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or beef stew for under $10. Plus, it’s a great spot to eat after a hike or beach day on the east side of Oahu. (I usually get one burger for around $5.)
📍 41-857 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimānalo, HI 96795
(My favorite location:) Keneke's Grill at Punalu'u: Located at 53-138 Kamehameha Hwy, Punalu'u, HI 96717
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue (~$9-$10)
L&L is the go-to spot for plate lunches, featuring local favorites like BBQ chicken, loco moco, and katsu. Their mini plates are under $10, and even a full meal often stays within budget.
📍 Multiple locations across Oahu
Genki Sushi (~$3-$10 per person)
Genki Sushi is a conveyor belt sushi spot, making it fun and budget-friendly. Most plates are $3-$5 each, so you can grab a few and stay within the $10 budget while enjoying fresh sushi.
📍 Multiple locations, including Ala Moana
Alicia’s Market (~$8-$12)
Alicia’s Market is a local gem for Hawaiian-style BBQ and poke bowls. They serve char siu pork, roast meats, and fresh seafood at affordable prices, making it a great alternative to more touristy spots.
📍 267 Mokauea St, Honolulu, HI 96819
Waiahole Poi Factory (~$8-$12)
If you want to try authentic Hawaiian food, this spot is known for its hand-pounded poi, laulau, kalua pig, and haupia. Their mini plates start at $8, and it’s worth every dollar.
📍 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Costco Food Court (~$1.50-$7)
You can't forget... Costco's prices are the same everywhere. You can get a hot dog and drink for $1.50, a huge pizza slice for under $3, or a chicken bake for $7. Perfect for a cheap but filling meal!
📍 525 Alakawa St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Final Cost Breakdown... Can You Really Eat for Under $30?
Yes you can... Here’s an example of a full day of meals for under $30:
- Breakfast: Liliha Bakery (Mini Pizza & Poi Donut) – $6.28
- Lunch: Foodland Poke Bowl – $10.50
- Dinner: Keneke’s Hawaiian Plate – $9.00
Total: $25.78 ✅
Even if you swap in different options, you can stay under $30 while enjoying delicious, local food.
Final Tips for Eating Cheap in Honolulu
✔ Go for Mini or Half Plates – Many plate lunch spots offer smaller portions at lower prices.
✔ Eat Where Locals Go – Avoid overpriced tourist spots and stick to neighborhood gems.
✔ Take Advantage of Happy Hours (separate blog post coming soon) – Many places have happy hour specials on food and drinks.
Eating on a budget in Hawaii doesn’t mean sacrificing quality! These spots prove you can enjoy local flavors, big portions, and fresh ingredients while keeping your wallet happy.