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Poke and strawberry lemonade are a perfect fit for lunch while at Waterfront Plaza.
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The horchatas at Aloha Mamacita are available in ube, original, and other flavors.
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The refreshing drinks at The Porch Honolulu are ideal for a warm day on campus.
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Wiki Wiki Drive Inn is perfect for old school comfort food.
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The weekly specials menu at Kainalu Poke at Waterfront Plaza.
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Monthly beverage specials at The Porch Honolulu.
Forget the walking or driving across town on your break. Some of the best spots in Honolulu are hiding right in plain sight at HPU’s Waterfront Plaza campus. Whether you’re fueling up between lectures or looking for a post exam meal, these four spots offer everything from budget bites to, "I deserve a good treat today," all without leaving campus. Let’s check them out (photos above):
Wiki Wiki Drive Inn
Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
The Vibe: Old school local comfort. Best For: A heavy breakfast before a long day or a classic plate lunch.
If you’re craving that nostalgic local food feel, Wiki-Wiki is your place. They specialize in the staples that keep Hawaii running. Their Plate Lunches (around $9–$15) are massive, think Honey Garlic Chicken or a classic Loco Moco that will definitely require a nap afterward.
Student Pro-Tip: Grab their Mini Breakfast Plates if you're on a tight schedule; they’re quick, filling, and easier on the wallet than a full sit-down meal.
Kainalu Poke
Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The Vibe: Fresh, fast, customizable with a belonging feel. Best For: A healthy lunch that feels like a treat.
Kainalu Poke is the go-to for fish lovers. While they have the standard shoyu and spicy ahi, keep an eye out for the “HPU Bowl,” a nod to the university community.
The Highlight: The “Build Your Own Bowl” allows you to control your portions and toppings perfectly for when you need to load up on greens but still want that fresh ahi fix. Also, they offer a student discount with a valid HPU ID.
Aloha Mamacita
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
The Vibe: Trendy, fusion heavy. Best For: When you want big flavors and a side of something sweet.
This isn't your standard taco joint. Aloha Mamacita is famous for their birria tacos and birria bao (a personal favorite) served with that rich, savory consommé for dipping. If you're not in the mood for tacos, their Thai-inspired dishes, giving us options and the best flavors.
Don't Leave Without: Trying the horchatas available in ube or original and other flavors. It’s the ultimate midafternoon sugar rush to get you through classes.
The Porch Honolulu
Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The Vibe: Modern café, cozy corners, and great aesthetics. Best For: A study date or a light, refreshing brunch.
The Porch brings a bit of Kaka'ako cool directly into Waterfront Plaza. It’s where good food meets great vibes. Their menu is packed with toasties (the smoked salmon bagel is a winner and refreshing pomegranate lemonade).
The Caffeine Fix: They take their drinks seriously. From the strawberry matcha to the chai tea latte, it’s the perfect spot to sit down with your laptop and review your work with hot tea and a delicious breakfast.
Living the student life at HPU means you are steps away from some of the best culinary diversity in the city. You don't have to settle for frozen pizza or granola bars. Support these local vendors who make our campus building feel like a community.
Whether you’re celebrating an A or mourning that C-, there’s a plate waiting for you downstairs. Eat well, study hard, and don't forget to take care of yourself this semester.
