Hawaii has served as a melting pot for some of the most delicious dishes from Asia and the Pacific. Cuisine often features a blend of cultural favorites, such as the local Loco Moco specialty. This mouthwatering comfort food marries favorite flavors from both sides of the world to create a unique spin on breakfast. If you’ve never heard of this dish, here is more information on it and why you should try it. 

All You Need to Know About the Loco Moco

History

Loco Moco is a Hawaiian breakfast dish that pairs Western and Asian foods. It’s become a local favorite for “curing” hangovers and refueling.

It’s rumored to have been created in the 1940s by Nancy Inouye, co-owner of the Lincoln Grill in Hilo, HI. She allegedly created it as a cheap dish to feed local hungry kids, and the name was inspired by how the first boy who ate it, Moco, went “crazy” for it. Another version of the story claims that the recipe was created for the local barefoot football team, the Lincoln Wreckers.

Ingredients

A traditional Loco Moco is a heaping dish set on a mound of white rice. It features a ground beef patty, a fried egg on top, and a rich gravy containing soy and Worcestershire sauces, honey, ketchup, and spices. The result is a mouthwatering, hearty dish that will leave you satisfied for the rest of your day. You’ll find different iterations throughout Hawaii, such as ones with prime rib, sausage, or different gravies.

If you want to try a traditional Loco Moco, stop by Plantation Grindz in Kahului, HI. They offer a wide selection of Filipino cuisine, as well as Hawaiian and Portuguese dishes, including hearty breakfasts, baby back ribs, chicken dishes, and satisfying soups. Explore their full menu on their website, find updates and review them on Facebook, or call (808) 873-3663 to speak to a member of the team.