When the craving for a hearty meal strikes, few dishes can rival the robust charm of loco moco. This traditional Hawaiian dish, typically featuring a bed of rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and drenched in rich brown gravy, has gained a cult following beyond the shores of Hawaii. New York City, with its melting pot of culinary offerings, has embraced loco moco, infusing local flavors and unique twists into this comfort food classic. Are you up for the challenge of finding the best loco moco in the city? Here’s a list of ten standout spots that promise to tantalize your taste buds.
1. Loco Moco Truck – Astoria
Beginning our journey in Astoria, the Loco Moco Truck serves this dish with an inventive flair. The food truck is renowned for its dedication to authenticity while making adaptations for local preferences. Their loco moco features a perfectly grilled beef patty accompanied by sticky short-grain rice, a luscious sunny-side-up egg, and a house-made gravy infused with soy sauce and spices. Enjoy it al fresco at one of Astoria’s parks and embrace the neighborhood’s vibrant community vibe.
2. Mahalo – East Village
Mahalo offers a cozy haven, channeling the essence of Aloha spirit right in the heart of the East Village. The loco moco here is particularly noteworthy due to its addition of sautéed mushrooms mixed into the creamy gravy, offering a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Their homemade kimchi provides a delightful twist, contrasting the savory richness of the dish with a tangy bite. Complete the experience with a refreshing iced rooftop tea.
3. Hilo Poke – Upper West Side
Though primarily known for its poke bowls, Hilo Poke delivers a ridiculously good loco moco that you wouldn’t want to miss. With its commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients, this location uses grass-fed beef patties and perfectly cooked rice, which complement each other beautifully. The added crunch of fresh scallions scattered on top gives it an extra dimension. Hilo Poke is a hidden gem, making it a worthwhile stop as you navigate the bustling streets of the Upper West Side.
4. Islands – Carroll Gardens
At Islands, diners can relish an upscale rendition of loco moco amidst a warm and inviting atmosphere. The owners have put a unique spin on the dish by incorporating a blend of lamb and beef into their patty, introducing a complex flavor profile. Accompanied by fragrant jasmine rice and a perfectly runny egg, every bite is a fusion of texture and taste. The ambiance is an excellent backdrop for a leisurely meal or a casual get-together.
5. Loco Moco Café – Chinatown
This no-frills eatery in Chinatown remains a well-kept secret among locals. Loco Moco Café concentrates on straightforward flavors without the embellishments that some might expect. Their generous portions of loco moco ensure you won’t leave hungry. With fluffy rice and an egg that oozes richness, every bite absorbs the homemade gravy’s savory notes. Don’t forget to explore their selection of local snacks while you are there.
6. Aloha Poke Co. – Williamsburg
Aloha Poke Co. expands on the loco moco experience with a distinctly modern twist. Set in the trendy surroundings of Williamsburg, their dish incorporates tofu as a vegetarian option for those looking for a meatless meal. The careful balance of crispy rice and earthy mushroom gravy serves as a perfect counterpart to the protein. The ambiance here is vibrant, making it a hotspot for young professionals and creatives alike.
7. Hana – Greenwich Village
Hana boasts an eco-friendly ethos while providing a sumptuous loco moco that ticks all the boxes. This locale sources its ingredients from local farms, ensuring freshness. The dish features a deep-fried egg for an unexpected crunch, and their brown gravy is seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt, making each mouthful a savory delight. Savoring a loco moco at Hana is as much about enjoying the meal as it is about appreciating sustainable dining.
8. Kona Grill – Midtown
As an upscale dining option, Kona Grill brings the flavors of Hawaii to Midtown Manhattan. Their loco moco includes a flavorful teriyaki-glazed burger patty, celebrated for its juicy consistency. It’s served atop steamed sticky rice with a deep-fried egg and topped with a robust brown gravy infused with ginger – all of which create a satisfying savory profile. Ideal for dining with colleagues or enjoying a post-work meal, Kona Grill provides a fun dining experience.
9. Poke Bowls by Momo – Fort Greene
Poke Bowls by Momo may sound like a disappointing deviation from authentic loco moco, but their twist is a testament to culinary innovation. They transform the classic by offering a chicken-and-avocado variation served atop coconut rice, nestled gently under a perfectly soft-boiled egg. The added ingredient of house-made salsa verde balances the dish beautifully. It’s a playful take that adds a new dimension for those looking for creativity in traditional fare.
10. Aloha Kitchen – Bushwick
The final stop on this loco moco journey leads us to Aloha Kitchen in Bushwick. Here, the dish combines influences from the Caribbean, adding spicy chorizo to the traditional patty. It’s crowned with house special gravy, which brings a kick that is unexpected but delightful. While savoring the depth of flavors, one can’t help but take in the artistic vibe that permeates Bushwick—a neighborhood known for its culture and innovation.
Whether you’re a local or simply visiting, embark on a culinary adventure to discover some of the best loco moco that New York has to offer. Each of these establishments presents a unique interpretation of the beloved dish, infused with local flair. Perhaps the ultimate challenge lies in deciding which one to visit first. That said, why not sample them all? Your taste buds might just thank you.
