Hamura Saimin

Name: Hamura Saimin
Address: 2956 Kress St, Lihue, Hawaii, 96766, US
Telephone: (808) 245-3271
Price range: $
Rating: 4.3

$ • Japanese, Hawaiian, Noodles

Hours:
2956 Kress St, Lihue
(808) 245-3271

About Hamura Saimin

Hamura Saimin is a cozy, locally run and operated restaurant that primarily caters to locals, giving it a welcoming atmosphere. It is a casual spot that attracts both locals and visitors. Known for its delicious and flavorful food, the restaurant is a great place to try their famous saimin, which is similar to ramen but has its own unique twist with the addition of ham and wontons. The menu also includes BBQ skewers of beef or chicken that are highly recommended. The fried wontons for an appetizer are freshly fried and very tasty, arriving before the main meal, which is appreciated by guests. The service is friendly and efficient, with the two servers managing the busy restaurant well. Cash is the only accepted form of payment, and parking is first-come, first-serve. While there are no reservations, the food comes out fast, making it worth the wait. Located in a convenient area, Hamura Saimin is a nice place to visit and enjoy a meal, and returning customers often express their desire to come back again.

Recent reviews mention that the saimin is a local favorite, especially if one grew up eating it. The menu is simple, and many visit because they crave saimin. However, some find the place to be a bit dated, and first-time visitors might not feel the same nostalgia. The staff can seem unfriendly, which may make some customers uncomfortable, but many still enjoy seeing families slurping noodles as steam rises from their bowls. The noodle soup is considered decent, and the BBQ sticks are good and highly recommended for a cheap, satisfying meal. The fried wontons are not well-liked by everyone, as their skin is too thick and the filling plain. The oxtail, available only on Monday and Friday, was described as very fatty and not recommended. The dessert, a lilikoi chiffon pie, was enjoyed by some, tasting similar to a lemon meringue pie. Overall, the restaurant offers an affordable experience with quick service, though customer service may vary. Cash only and parking on a first-come, first-serve basis.