Hawaiian Shrimp Co
Casual Hilo spot for shrimp plates and other local-style comfort food. Expect a quick, filling meal with a plate-lunch feel rather than fine dining.
- shrimp-focused menu
- combo plates
- casual walk-in dining
- takeout-friendly
Hawaiian Shrimp Co is a straightforward Hilo stop for shrimp plates and other local-style comfort food, with a plate-lunch setup that favors speed, fullness, and familiarity over polish. It stands out because it knows exactly what it is: a casual, shrimp-forward counter-service spot where the food is built for a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
What to order
The kitchen’s strength is shrimp, especially in plates that keep the focus on bold, simple flavors. Garlic shrimp and lilikoi shrimp are the standout names to know, and combo plates make sense if the goal is to sample shrimp alongside steak or kalbi in one visit. The menu also reaches into Korean chicken, calamari, and other island comfort staples, but the center of gravity stays firmly on seafood and hearty plate lunch fare. Portions are meant to be filling, and the sides—think mac salad, rice, fries, sweet potato, and similar extras—reinforce the casual, substantial style.
The experience
This is a practical place rather than a leisurely one. The service model is counter-service, the setting is casual, and the whole operation feels designed for quick lunches, easy dinners, and takeout. That makes it a good fit for travelers moving through Hilo who want something satisfying without a long wait or a formal dining room. Parking is convenient for the Waiakea Center location, which adds to the low-friction appeal. The tradeoff is that this is not the spot for a polished atmosphere or a romantic meal; the vibe is more utilitarian than scenic.
Strengths and caveats
What Hawaiian Shrimp Co does best is deliver a dependable, filling plate lunch with a shrimp-heavy identity. For many diners, that is exactly the draw. The main caution is that service and consistency can be uneven. Some visits are remembered for warm, friendly treatment, while other reports mention spotty service or dishes that arrived less satisfying than expected. That mix suggests a place with real appeal, but not the kind of place that guarantees a flawless experience every time.
Who it suits best
Hawaiian Shrimp Co is best for shrimp fans, families, solo diners, and anyone looking for a casual Hilo meal that comes out quickly and leaves no doubt about value in portions. Travelers seeking a chef-driven experience, a quieter sit-down room, or a more refined seafood dinner will likely want a different kind of stop.
