What Makes Rainbow Drive-In Special
Rainbow Drive-In is a restaurant where you can enjoy simple, hearty dishes that reflect Hawaii’s immigrant culture. Seiju and Ayako Ifuku opened it in Kapahulu in 1961, and it is now run by the 3. generation of the Ifuku family. Centered on plate lunches, it offers a relaxed way to enjoy a Hawaiian-style meal.
The Plate Lunch Beloved in Kapahulu
Rainbow Drive-In (Rainbow DRIVE-IN) is a casual, diner-like place that serves generous meals at affordable prices.
It is an easy place to stop between sightseeing activities and a convenient choice when you want a substantial meal. Through the home-style cooking passed down since its founding, you can experience everyday life in Hawaii, where diverse food cultures meet.
Mixed Plate
During my visit, I ordered the aptly named Mix Plate. BBQ beef, boneless chicken, and fried mahi (dolphinfish) were piled generously on top of the rice.
The unpretentious setting and generous portions offer a different kind of enjoyment from taking your time over a meal in a restaurant.
Basic information about Rainbow Drive-In
- 🔗 Official website
- You can check the address, opening hours, and menu for the Kapahulu location.
Locations | Rainbow Drive-Inwww.rainbowdrivein.com
- 📍 Address
- 3308 Kanaina Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, United States
- 🕒 Opening hours
- Open daily from 7:00 to 21:00. ⚠️ Hours may change or the restaurant may be closed on holidays.
- 🚫 Days closed
- Usually open every day. ⚠️ Holiday closures may differ from the regular schedule.
- 💶 Cost
- There is no admission fee; you pay for the food and drinks you order. The menu and prices are available on the official website.
- ⏱️ Time required
- Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from ordering to eating. ⚠️ The time varies depending on how busy it is when you order, the wait for the food, and whether you eat indoors or outdoors.
Getting to Rainbow Drive-In
The Kapahulu location of Rainbow Drive-In is along Kanaina Avenue, east of central Waikiki. From Waikiki, you can easily reach it by public bus, taxi, or a rideshare service by setting3308 Kanaina Avenueas your destination. If you take the bus, get off in the Kapahulu area, continue to Kanaina Avenue, and head for the order window at the front of the roadside restaurant. The stop where you get off varies by route, so check the stop and walking route on a map before boarding.
A Detour to Rainbow Drive-In
Watch out for the fearless sparrows—they will snatch your toppings if you let your guard down.