Given that my lady friend is a vegetarian, we don’t always have the easiest time finding places to eat. So, after a night out at the movies at Ward Stadium, I was surprised when she suggested eating at Big City Diner. This well-established Hawaii based family restaurant has a varied enough menu for both of us.
The name “diner” is very appropriate for this restaurant; that is exactly the motif that is visible inside. The Thursday night we went for dinner was quite busy, but they were able to seat us quickly. It’s not exactly the place for a quiet romantic evening, but it’s more than suitable for most family dining.
Interestingly, Big City Diner has won several awards including “Best American Food” by the Honolulu Advertiser in 2007 (beating McDonalds, so I’m not sure that’s something to brag about). Their service is fast and friendly if quite informal. Their menu includes local favorites like Chinatown Chow Mein Noodles and Mamasan’s Vegetable Stir-Fry, as well as unique items like Fire-Roasted Portobello Mushroom Salad. Their prices are a bit higher than I would expect for a “diner”, but not unreasonably so. They also have a fine selection of alcoholic beverages for those so inclined.
While I would hesitate on recommending Big City Diner for someone’s anniversary or big date (unless there’s some kind of sentimental connection, like a first date), for a fun, fast meal that’s suitable for the vegetarian or meat eating crowd, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Big City Diner.
Big City Diner Ward Entertainment Center
1060 Auahi Street
Honolulu, HI 96814
Voice 808-591-8891
Fax 808-591-5571
