Rice & Fries Waikiki: The Complete Guide to This Korean-Hawaiian Fusion Food Truck
Everything you need to know about Waikiki's best-kept secret for authentic Korean-Hawaiian fusion β from the signature K-Loco Moco to late-night Animal Style Fries

Rice & Fries food truck with their signature spread: K-Loco Moco, Animal Style Fries, Fried Mandoo, Butter Garlic Shrimp Plate, Steak Plate, and Fried Enoki Mushrooms
Rice & Fries Quick Info
π Location: 2002 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
π Hours: Sun-Thu 5-10 PM | Fri-Sat 5 PM-12 AM
Hours last updated from Google: Apr 29, 2026
π° Price Range: $$ ($18-30 per person)
π½οΈ Cuisine: Korean-Hawaiian-American Fusion
π Must-Try: K-Loco Moco ($18), Animal Style Fries ($14)
π± Instagram: @riceandfrieshi
π₯¬ Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Options
π ΏοΈ Parking: Street parking limited, walk or Uber recommended
Getting there: Located at the intersection of Kalakaua and Kaiulani, near ABC Store. 10-15 minute walk from Hilton Hawaiian Village. Look for the white food truck with the red rice bowl and fries logo.
π View on Food Mapπ In This Guide
Introduction: What is Rice & Fries?
If you're searching for authentic Korean-Hawaiian fusion food in Waikiki, Rice & Fries is the hidden gem you've been looking for. Tucked away in a food truck park on Kalakaua Avenue, this unassuming white food truck serves up some of the most creative and delicious fusion cuisine on the island β and it stays open late when almost everything else in Waikiki has closed.
Rice & Fries is owned and operated by David, a Korean-born chef who learned to cook from his parents and extended family starting at the age of nine. Unlike the generic "Asian fusion" you'll find at tourist traps throughout Waikiki, David's food is rooted in authentic Korean cooking traditions, reimagined with Hawaiian and American influences.
The name itself tells the whole story: rice represents Asian cuisine β the foundation of meals across Korea, Hawaii, Japan, and much of the world. Fries represent American comfort food β the kind David orders every time he sits down at a bar. Put them together and you get exactly what this food truck delivers: a delicious bridge between cultures, served from a small truck with a big heart.
What sets Rice & Fries apart from other Waikiki food trucks isn't just the quality of the food β it's the authenticity behind it. When David makes his signature kimchi gravy, he's drawing on generations of Korean culinary tradition. When he crafts the bulgogi patty for his K-Loco Moco, he's using techniques and flavors his family taught him as a child. This isn't fusion for fusion's sake; it's a genuine expression of David's multicultural culinary journey.

The Rice & Fries food truck with its signature logo and welcoming neon OPEN sign
What Makes Rice & Fries Special?
In a tourist destination like Waikiki where mediocre overpriced food is the norm, Rice & Fries stands out for several important reasons. Understanding what makes this food truck special will help you appreciate why locals and visitors alike are willing to seek it out.
π°π· Authentic Korean Roots
David didn't learn Korean cooking from a culinary school or YouTube videos. He grew up in Korea, cooking alongside his parents and extended family from age 9. "Food for Korean people is very important," he explains. "It's a big part of our culture." Every dish at Rice & Fries reflects this deep cultural connection β from the fermented tang of the kimchi gravy to the perfectly seasoned bulgogi patty.
πΊ True Hawaiian Fusion
Hawaii has a long history of Korean immigration dating back over a century. Rice & Fries represents this cultural blending authentically β taking Hawaii's beloved loco moco and infusing it with Korean flavors, or topping classic American fries with Korean-inspired toppings. It's fusion that makes sense historically and tastes incredible.
π Late Night Hours
One of the biggest challenges in Waikiki is finding quality food after 10 PM. Most restaurants close early, leaving visitors with limited options. Rice & Fries stays open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, serving hot, fresh food when you need it most. Those Animal Style Fries at 11 PM? Life-changing.
π Dietary Accommodation
David takes dietary restrictions seriously. Rice & Fries maintains dedicated cookware and recipes for vegan and vegetarian guests β real infrastructure to prevent cross-contamination, not just "we can leave the meat off." The fried enoki mushrooms are both vegan AND gluten-free, a rare find for fried food.
π° Fair Waikiki Pricing
Let's be honest: Waikiki is expensive. But Rice & Fries offers genuine value. A filling K-Loco Moco is just $18 β try finding a satisfying meal at that price in most Waikiki restaurants. Even the protein plates at $20 are reasonable compared to what you'd pay elsewhere for inferior food.
π¨βπ³ One-Man Operation
David runs Rice & Fries solo. He's cooking every dish, taking every order, and putting his heart into every plate. When you eat here, you're experiencing one person's culinary vision executed with care and passion. That personal touch is rare and valuable.
Signature Dishes & What to Order
Whether you're visiting Rice & Fries for the first time or you're a returning customer looking to try something new, here are the essential dishes you need to know about. I've organized recommendations based on different situations and preferences.
π First Time at Rice & Fries? Order These:
1. K-Loco Moco ($18) β THE Must-Try
This is Rice & Fries' signature creation and the dish that defines what David is trying to accomplish. A Korean-Hawaiian fusion of the classic loco moco featuring a juicy bulgogi-seasoned beef patty, perfectly fried egg, and house-made kimchi gravy over fluffy white rice. Topped with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and blistered shishito peppers. If you only order one thing, this is it.
2. Fried Mandoo ($9) β Handmade Excellence
Traditional Korean dumplings handmade by David, filled with seasoned meat and vegetables, then frozen to preserve freshness before being fried until golden and crispy, garnished with green onions.
3. Plum-ade ($3) β Authentic Korean Drink
House-made from Korean green plums (maesil), this traditional beverage is refreshing and aids digestion β perfect after a rich meal. It's the only drink David makes in-house, and there's a reason he's proud of it.

π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Feeding a Family of Four ($70-85 total)
David specifically recommends this combination for families visiting with kids:
- 1-2 Plates ($20 each) β Mix of proteins like steak and shrimp for the adults to share
- K-Loco Moco ($18) β Share family-style, kids love the flavors
- Animal Style Fries ($14) or Loaded Fries ($16) β Kids consistently love these
- Fried Mandoo ($9) β Perfect table appetizer everyone can enjoy
- Drinks ($4-6) β Plum-ade for adventurous eaters, sodas for kids
This gives you variety, ensures everyone finds something they love, and represents excellent value compared to sit-down Waikiki restaurants.
π Late Night Cravings (Open til Midnight Fri-Sat)
Just got out of a bar at 11 PM and starving? Rice & Fries has you covered. Here's what hits the spot for late-night eating:
Animal Style Fries ($14)
Crispy fries loaded with caramelized grilled onions, melted cheese, and house-made thousand island sauce. David's tribute to In-N-Out's secret menu, executed perfectly.
Loaded Fries ($16)
When you need maximum comfort: crispy fries buried under bacon bits, melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Full K-Loco Moco ($18)
For those who want a real meal, not just a snack. A K-Loco Moco at 11 PM is genuinely life-changing β trust me on this one.

π₯¬ Vegan & Vegetarian Visitors
Rice & Fries is unusually accommodating for a food truck. Here's what you need to know:
- Fried Enoki Mushroom Plate ($20) β Full vegan plate with rice or fries and kimchi gravy
- Fried Enoki Mushroom Side ($9) β Vegan AND gluten-free, light and crispy
- Dedicated Cookware β David uses separate equipment for vegan/vegetarian orders
- Just Ask β Let David know your dietary needs and he'll guide you
The menu specifically notes: "Dedicated cookware & recipe for our vegan/vegetarian friends." This level of accommodation is rare for food trucks.
The Famous K-Loco Moco: A Deep Dive
The K-Loco Moco deserves special attention because it perfectly encapsulates what Rice & Fries is all about. To understand why this dish is special, you need to understand both the Hawaiian original and David's Korean twist.
What is Traditional Loco Moco?
Loco moco is one of Hawaii's most beloved comfort foods, invented in Hilo in 1949 at the Lincoln Grill. The classic version consists of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It's hearty, filling, and has become a staple of Hawaiian cuisine found everywhere from diners to fine dining restaurants.
What Makes the K-Loco Moco Different?
David's K-Loco Moco takes this Hawaiian classic and infuses it with Korean soul. Here's what changes:
- Bulgogi Patty β Instead of a plain hamburger patty, David uses a bulgogi-seasoned beef patty. Bulgogi ("fire meat") is a Korean preparation featuring beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper. The result is a more flavorful, more tender patty.
- Kimchi Gravy β The brown gravy is replaced with David's house-made kimchi gravy, incorporating the tangy, fermented flavors of Korea's most famous side dish. This is the secret sauce that makes everything sing.
- Korean Toppings β Toasted sesame seeds, fresh green onions, and blistered shishito peppers add texture, freshness, and a subtle heat that elevates the dish.
The fried egg remains β some things are sacred. The runny yolk mixing with the kimchi gravy and rice is pure comfort food magic.
The $5 Upgrade: Double Patty + Cheese
For an extra $5, you can add a second bulgogi patty and cheese. This transforms the K-Loco Moco from a satisfying meal into a truly indulgent experience. If you're really hungry or want to share, the upgrade is worth it.
Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Options
Finding accommodating food options in Waikiki can be challenging, especially at food trucks. Rice & Fries stands out for taking dietary restrictions seriously β it's not an afterthought here.
π₯¬ What Makes Rice & Fries Different
Right on the menu, you'll see this note: "Dedicated cookware & recipe for our vegan/vegetarian friends."
This isn't just lip service. David maintains separate cooking equipment specifically for vegan and vegetarian orders. This means no cross-contamination from meat products β a level of care that's rare for any restaurant, let alone a food truck.
Vegan Options
- β’ Fried Enoki Mushroom Plate ($20) β Full meal with rice or fries and kimchi gravy
- β’ Fried Enoki Mushroom Side ($9) β Light, crispy, also gluten-free
- β’ French Fries ($6) β Classic option
- β’ Waffle Fries ($6) β Extra crispy
- β’ Plum-ade ($3) β House-made drink
Gluten-Free Options
- β’ Rice β Naturally gluten-free base
- β’ Fried Enoki Mushrooms ($9) β Both vegan AND gluten-free
- β’ Ask David β He can guide you to other safe options
Note: The menu asks customers to share any allergies. David is accommodating and will work with you.
Location, Hours & How to Get There

The food truck park on Kalakaua Avenue where Rice & Fries is located, complete with string lights and multiple trucks
π Address & Location Details
Street Address: 2002 Kalakaua Avenue
City: Honolulu, HI 96815
Cross Street: Intersection of Kalakaua and Kaiulani
Landmark: Look for the ABC Store nearby
The truck is located in a food truck park down the street from where the old Ohana Hale Marketplace used to be. It's a white truck with a red logo featuring a bowl of rice and basket of fries.
π Hours of Operation
Monday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM β
Saturday: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM β
Sunday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
β Open late on weekends! Hours may expand in the future β check Instagram for updates.

Outdoor picnic tables with tiki umbrellas β casual, comfortable seating for enjoying your food
π How to Get to Rice & Fries
πΆ Walking (Recommended)
The best option from anywhere in Waikiki. It's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from Hilton Hawaiian Village or Ilikai Hotel along Kalakaua Avenue. You'll pass shops and sights along the way. Waikiki is made for walking!
π Uber/Lyft
Quick, easy, and often cheaper than dealing with Waikiki parking. The driver can drop you right at the food truck park. A ride from most Waikiki hotels costs just a few dollars.
π² Biki Bike
Biki bike share stations are located throughout Waikiki. It's a fun, active way to get around and explore. Check the Biki app for nearby stations and availability.
β οΈ About Parking
Street parking in Waikiki is extremely limited and often expensive. Hotel parking can cost $30-50+ per day. Unless you're already driving, walking or rideshare is strongly recommended. Don't let parking hassles ruin your Rice & Fries experience!
How to Order & Pro Tips
Rice & Fries is a straightforward food truck operation, but here are some tips to make your experience even better:
π± Order Ahead via Instagram
Want your food ready when you arrive? DM David on Instagram @riceandfrieshi. He responds quickly and prefers this method over phone calls. You can also use Instagram to check if they're open or see the latest menu updates.
π« No Delivery Apps (Yet)
Rice & Fries is not currently on DoorDash, Uber Eats, or other delivery platforms. David is focusing on perfecting the walk-in experience first. This means you'll need to visit in person β but trust me, it's worth the trip.
β° Best Times to Visit
Since David runs the truck solo, there can be a wait during peak times. For fastest service, try visiting right when they open at 5 PM or after the dinner rush around 8-9 PM. Late night on weekends (10 PM+) can also be busy with the bar crowd.
π¬ Talk to David
Don't be shy! David loves talking about his food and is happy to make recommendations or explain dishes. If you have dietary restrictions, tell him β he's accommodating and wants everyone to enjoy their meal.
Meet David: The Chef & Owner Behind Rice & Fries

David grew up in Korea, where food isn't just sustenance β it's how you express love, build community, and connect with your heritage. He started cooking at age 9 or 10, learning traditional Korean techniques from his parents and extended family.
"Food for Korean people is very important," David explains. "It's a big part of our culture. I learned to cook from my dad, my mom, and their families."
When David talks about his food, his passion is obvious. He's not running Rice & Fries to get rich or become famous. He's doing it because cooking is who he is, and sharing that food with others brings him genuine joy.
The name "Rice & Fries" came from David wanting something simple that captures his fusion philosophy. Rice is essential to Korean cuisine. Fries are classic American comfort food β David orders steak fries every time he sits at a bar. The logo reflects this: a bowl of rice next to a basket of fries, simple and direct.
π― David's Philosophy in His Own Words
"I don't really have big plans for my business, but it really makes me happy to serve what I eat to people and get positive feedback. I cook what I eat."
This simple philosophy is what makes Rice & Fries special. Every dish David serves is something he genuinely loves eating himself, made with techniques his family taught him. It's personal in a way that corporate restaurants can never replicate.
Atmosphere & Seating
Rice & Fries operates in a food truck park environment, which offers a different experience than a traditional restaurant. Here's what to expect:
πͺ Seating Options
The food truck park has wooden picnic tables with large tiki-style straw umbrellas for shade and ambiance. It's casual outdoor seating β perfect for Hawaii's climate. The setup is family-friendly and accommodates groups of various sizes.
π΄ Vibe & Atmosphere
The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. String lights add ambiance in the evening. Other food trucks in the park mean variety for groups with different preferences. It's a quintessentially Hawaiian experience β casual, welcoming, and focused on good food.
π¦οΈ Weather Considerations
Since seating is outdoors, you're subject to Hawaii weather. The umbrellas provide shade and light rain protection, but heavy rain might make dining uncomfortable. Check the forecast if weather is a concern, though Waikiki is typically pleasant year-round.
π Other Trucks Nearby
The food truck park features multiple vendors, which is great if you're with a group that has diverse preferences. While everyone else is eating whatever they want, you'll be enjoying the best Korean-Hawaiian fusion in Waikiki.
Late Night Food in Waikiki: Why Rice & Fries Stands Out
Anyone who's spent time in Waikiki knows the frustration: it's 10:30 PM, you're hungry, and seemingly everything is closed. Most Waikiki restaurants stop serving by 9 or 10 PM. Your options narrow to convenience store snacks, expensive hotel room service, or fast food chains.
This is where Rice & Fries becomes invaluable. On Fridays and Saturdays, they stay open until midnight β serving hot, fresh, made-to-order food when you need it most. Whether you're coming from a bar, returning from an evening activity, or just have late-night cravings, Rice & Fries has you covered.
π Best Late Night Orders
Quick Snack
Animal Style Fries ($14) β fast, satisfying, perfect post-bar food
Full Meal
K-Loco Moco ($18) β a complete, filling dinner even at 11 PM
Sharing
Loaded Fries ($16) + Fried Mandoo ($9) β split with friends
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rice & Fries located in Waikiki?
Rice & Fries food truck is located at 2002 Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii, at the intersection of Kalakaua and Kaiulani. The truck operates in a food truck park with outdoor seating including picnic tables with tiki umbrellas. Look for the ABC Store nearby as a landmark. The location is about a 10-15 minute walk from Hilton Hawaiian Village and Ilikai Hotel along Ala Moana Boulevard.
What are Rice & Fries' hours of operation?
Rice & Fries is open for dinner and late night service. Monday through Thursday and Sunday: 5 PM to 10 PM. Friday and Saturday: 5 PM to 12 AM (midnight), making it one of the few late-night food options in Waikiki. Hours may change, so check their Instagram @riceandfrieshi for the latest updates.
What should I order at Rice & Fries?
The K-Loco Moco ($18) is the #1 best seller and signature dish - it's a Korean twist on Hawaii's classic loco moco with a bulgogi patty, fried egg, and kimchi gravy over rice. Also highly recommended are the Animal Style Fries ($14), handmade fried mandoo dumplings ($9), and the house-made plum-ade drink ($3). For families, David recommends sharing plates with the K-Loco Moco and adding sides.
Does Rice & Fries have vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes! Rice & Fries takes dietary restrictions seriously and uses dedicated cookware and recipes specifically for vegan and vegetarian guests to prevent cross-contamination. The Fried Enoki Mushroom Plate ($20) is fully vegan. The fried enoki mushrooms ($9 side) are both vegan AND gluten-free - a rare combination for fried food. Let David know about any allergies when ordering.
Is Rice & Fries on DoorDash or Uber Eats?
Not currently. Rice & Fries is focusing on walk-in customers and building their in-person experience first. David prefers to connect directly with customers. You can DM on Instagram @riceandfrieshi to order ahead for pickup - David responds quickly and can have your order ready when you arrive.
How much does it cost to eat at Rice & Fries?
Rice & Fries offers good value for Waikiki. Plates with protein (steak, shrimp, or mushroom) are $20. The popular K-Loco Moco is $18. Loaded Fries are $16 and Animal Style Fries are $14. Sides range from $6-9. Drinks are $2-3. Expect to spend $18-30 per person for a filling meal with a drink.
What makes the K-Loco Moco different from regular loco moco?
Traditional Hawaiian loco moco features a hamburger patty with brown gravy. David's K-Loco Moco uses a Korean bulgogi-seasoned patty with house-made kimchi gravy instead, creating a unique Korean-Hawaiian fusion. It's topped with a fried egg, green onions, sesame seeds, and shishito peppers. You can also add a double patty and cheese for an extra $5.
Is Rice & Fries good for late night food in Waikiki?
Absolutely! Rice & Fries is one of the best late-night food options in Waikiki. They're open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays when most restaurants have closed. The loaded fries and animal style fries are perfect post-bar food, and the K-Loco Moco makes for a satisfying late-night meal.
What is the kimchi gravy at Rice & Fries?
The kimchi gravy is David's house-made signature sauce that comes with all plates. It's a unique fusion creation that combines the tangy, fermented flavors of Korean kimchi with a savory gravy consistency. It's what makes Rice & Fries dishes distinctly Korean-Hawaiian. You can also order extra kimchi gravy as a side for $3.
Who owns Rice & Fries?
Rice & Fries is owned and operated by David, who grew up in Korea and learned to cook from his parents and extended family starting at age 9-10. He runs the food truck solo, cooking everything himself using recipes rooted in Korean tradition. The name represents his fusion philosophy - rice for Asian cuisine, fries for American comfort food.
Does Rice & Fries have gluten-free options?
Yes. The rice served with plates is naturally gluten-free, and the fried enoki mushrooms are also gluten-free. David uses dedicated cookware for dietary restrictions. If you have gluten sensitivity, let him know when ordering and he can guide you to safe options.
How do I get to Rice & Fries from my Waikiki hotel?
Walking is the best option from most Waikiki hotels - it's a pleasant stroll along Kalakaua Avenue. From Hilton Hawaiian Village or Ilikai Hotel, it's about 10-15 minutes. You can also take Uber/Lyft (often cheaper than parking) or rent a Biki bike. Street parking in Waikiki is difficult, so walking or rideshare is recommended.
Is Rice & Fries good for families with kids?
Yes! Kids love the Animal Style Fries ($14), Loaded Fries ($16), mozzarella sticks ($6), and regular fries ($6). The outdoor picnic table seating is casual and kid-friendly. For a family of four, David recommends 1-2 plates to share, the K-Loco Moco, one order of fries for the kids, and fried mandoo for the table - around $70-85 total.
What does Rice & Fries' name mean?
The name represents David's fusion cooking philosophy. Rice is the foundation of meals across Korea, Hawaii, and much of Asia - it represents his Korean heritage. Fries represent American comfort food that David loves (he orders steak fries every time he sits at a bar). Together, they symbolize how the food truck bridges cultures, just like Hawaii itself.
Ready to Try Rice & Fries?
Head to 2002 Kalakaua Avenue any evening after 5 PM. Start with the K-Loco Moco β it's the signature dish for a reason. Add some fried mandoo and a plum-ade, grab a seat at a picnic table, and experience authentic Korean-Hawaiian fusion the way David intended.
Open late until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays β perfect for those late-night cravings. Tell David that Nate sent you!
π 2002 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
π Sun-Thu 5-10 PM | Fri-Sat 5 PM-12 AM
π° $$ ($18-30 per person)
π± Instagram: @riceandfrieshi
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