Discover Hamura Saimin’s History
Discovering the rich history of Hamura Saimin is like taking a journey through the heart of Kauai, Hawaii. This legendary restaurant, located in Lihue, has been a cherished part of the island’s culinary heritage for over half a century. Its story is a testament to tradition, family, and the enduring love for food. Hamura Saimin was established in 1952 by Charles and Aiko Hamura. Situated in a converted Army barracks on Kress Street, the restaurant began as a modest eatery with just six wooden stools where a chef would cook saimin to order.
Over the years, Hamura Saimin has grown in popularity and size, yet it has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality and authenticity. What sets Hamura Saimin apart is its dedication to tradition and taste. The heart of the menu is saimin, a Hawaiian noodle soup that harkens back to the island’s plantation era. The restaurant’s enduring popularity is a testament to the family’s commitment to preserving the culinary traditions and offering a taste of old Hawaii to all who walk through the doors. If a traveler is seeking local flavors in Kauai, Hamura Saimin Stand is a place that should undoubtedly find a place on their itinerary.
Exploring the Hamura Saimin Menu
Let’s dive into the culinary world of Hamura Saimin, where the menu is a delightful fusion of flavors and tradition. At Hamura Saimin, the heart of the menu is saimin, Hawaii’s answer to ramen. What sets this saimin apart is the secret recipe broth, a closely guarded family tradition that has been passed down through generations. This unique broth is a blend of shrimp, chicken, pork, and scallops, creating a base that’s clean, light, and rich in umami flavors.
When a customer first glances at the saimin options, it might seem a bit confusing, but Hamura Saimin will simplify it for them. The classic saimin is a simple, yet satisfying bowl of saimin noodles in the secret broth, topped with green onions, ham, and kamaboko. Hamura Saimin Stand doesn’t stop at saimin, though. While it is the star of the show, the menu also features side dishes that complement a customer’s saimin adventure. A diner can enjoy BBQ beef sticks, BBQ chicken sticks, and Manapua, which are specialty dumplings filled with a savory mix of pork, onions, and water chestnuts.

The Best Seller at Hamura Saimin
Experience the Comfortable Atmosphere at Hamura Saimin
The moment a customer walks through the door, they are enveloped in the warm and welcoming ambiance that characterizes Hamura Saimin. The restaurant’s unassuming exterior gives way to a bustling interior that perfectly captures the essence of old Hawaii. The casual, communal seating arrangement fosters a sense of togetherness, where locals and tourists blend seamlessly. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, creating a diverse and vibrant dining experience.
The friendly service, affordable prices, and delicious food combine to create an atmosphere that keeps customers coming back time and time again. Whether a customer is a first-time visitor to Kauai or a seasoned traveler, Hamura Saimin is a dining experience they won’t want to miss. So, come and immerse yourself in the comfortable, nostalgic, and oh-so-delicious atmosphere at Hamura Saimin – it’s a slice of Kauai’s history a diner won’t forget.
Convenient Service Options
For those who are on the go or prefer to enjoy the delectable saimin and other dishes in the comfort of their own space, the Takeaway service is the perfect choice. With this option, guests can place an order at the counter, and the friendly staff will ensure that each meal is prepared promptly and packaged securely for customers to take along.
It’s a fantastic option for a quick, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at a personal pace, whether heading to the beach or exploring the beauty of Kauai. Whether selecting Takeaway for convenience or choosing Dine-in for the vibrant atmosphere, Hamura Saimin is dedicated to serving patrons the legendary saimin and dishes with a side of Aloha spirit. Visitors are always welcome at Hamura Saimin to taste the flavors of Hawaii in a setting that captures the essence of this beautiful island.
Hamura Saimin’s Prices Offerings
At Hamura Saimin, guests will find prices that offer a delightful surprise. This beloved Kauai eatery has gained its well-deserved reputation not only for its delectable saimin but also for its incredibly reasonable prices. The affordability of Hamura Saimin is evident as soon as diners glance at the menu. The saimin, a Hawaiian specialty and a signature dish at this restaurant, is not only delicious but also budget-friendly.
It’s a comforting bowl of noodles and flavorful broth that remains within reach for any budget. Whether a local seeking a tasty, affordable meal or a visitor looking for an authentic taste of Hawaii without overspending, Hamura Saimin is a fantastic choice. The reasonable prices here ensure that every patron can savor the flavors of this iconic Kauai establishment without any financial worries.
The Cash-Only Experience at Hamura Saimin
Nestled in the heart of Lihue, Kauai, the iconic Hamura Saimin has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. For food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Hawaiian dining experience, Hamura Saimin is an absolute must-visit. However, there is one thing for diners to keep in mind as they embark on this culinary adventure: it is a cash-only establishment.
Cash-only dining establishments are not unusual, and Hamura Saimin is one such place where this tradition thrives. While the world becomes increasingly digital, stepping into Hamura Saimin feels like stepping back in time. The restaurant maintains its commitment to cash transactions, and this policy remains a cherished part of its old-school charm.




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Your helpful advice is highly valuable to anyone thinking about visiting Hamura Saimin. Reviews serve as a key guide for prospective customers, assisting in the formation of suitable expectations and ensuring that customers, whether the customer walk in or make an online appointment, receive the exceptional service the customer deserve.
consistent local simple food and atmosphere
I would very certainly return for another authentically local experience. Simple decent meals and a neighborhood setting. I ordered the special dish and one of each of the beef and chicken sticks. Just basic regional cuisine. A true jewel.

Not fancy but awesome food
All the workers we saw were 4 lovely females. however, the soup was superb! We had two specials and relished each meal. Then, after hearing that they served the best lilikoi chiffon pie on Kauai, we brought an entire pie back to our condo to confirm this. I could have consumed the entire pie! Delicious and as airy as a cloud. I have no problem recommending this location. We’re going back immediately!

The best soup and lilikoi pie
The space has existed on the island for the same amount of time. They ultimately underwent remodeling after almost 50 years. Going here is the same as becoming a local there is nothing finer. It’s a local spot, but you can also find Hollywood stars, the mayor, and other famous people there, including me and I’ve been eating there for about 40 years. They have the finest soup on the island, fantastic barbeque on the stick, and the best lilikoi pie in Hawaii.

Great local fare
Excellent regional cuisine that is ideal for a local eating experience. The special medium and barbecue chicken stick I ordered were both plenty of food!

Legendary hole in the wall.
The serpentine counter where residents have been eating saimin for decades is CASH ONLY. They don’t know the password if they talk to you about Kauai and you mention Hamura’s and they don’t acknowledge you. The only way to obtain a Hamura t-shirt, though, is if you are traveling the world and you spot someone wearing one. Visit Hamura’s, consume the saimin, and learn.
