Only in Hilo: The Gravy Burger
Our take
Discover the unique culinary gem that is the Gravy Burger, a beloved creation that can only be found in Hilo, Hawaiʻi. This charming town, known for its laid-back vibe and rich local culture, proudly claims the title of the birthplace of loco moco—a classic Hawaiian dish that marries hamburger patties, white rice, brown gravy, and eggs. First served at the now-closed Lincoln Grill, the loco moco has evolved into a comfort food favorite, inspiring the innovative Gravy Burger. Here, you can indulge in the perfect blend of flavors that reflect Hilo’s adventurous spirit. Join us in celebrating this delicious local tradition, where each bite invites you to experience the heart and soul of Hawaiian cuisine.
Hilo, a charming town perched on the eastern coast of Hawaiʻi Island, offers visitors a unique taste of local culture, quite literally. The article on the gravy burger captures the essence of Hilo’s culinary landscape, highlighting its roots in the iconic loco moco. Originating from the now-closed Lincoln Grill, loco moco has become more than just a meal; it’s a representation of the island’s spirit, combining comfort food with a local twist. The gravy burger is a delicious evolution of this beloved dish, showcasing how Hilo embraces its culinary heritage while inviting adventurous eaters to indulge in a truly unique experience. For those interested in exploring more about Hilo and its local offerings, the Blue Water Task Force Kauai: High levels bacteria across almost whole island and The Best Banana Bread on Maui in 2026 articles provide insights into the rich culinary tapestry of the Hawaiian Islands.
The gravy burger stands out as a testament to Hilo’s inventive spirit, merging the comfort of a classic hamburger with the heartiness of loco moco. This dish is not merely about the ingredients—hamburger patties and brown gravy—but about the community that brings it to life. It embodies the laid-back yet vibrant lifestyle that defines Hilo. By transforming a beloved dish into something even more approachable, local eateries are encouraging both residents and visitors to explore their culinary creativity. This highlights an important aspect of island culture: food is a medium for storytelling and connection. Each bite of a gravy burger is a bite of Hilo’s history, reflecting its rich heritage and the innovative drive of its culinary artists.
Moreover, the rise of such unique dishes speaks to a growing trend in the culinary world—where authenticity meets creativity. Diners today are not just looking for a meal; they are searching for experiences that resonate with their values of authenticity and adventure. This is particularly true in a place like Hilo, where food culture is deeply intertwined with local traditions and the natural environment. The gravy burger encapsulates this philosophy, inviting food lovers to indulge in something that feels both familiar and delightfully novel. As travelers increasingly seek out local experiences, dishes like the gravy burger play a pivotal role in creating memorable culinary journeys.
Looking ahead, the question arises: how will Hilo’s food scene continue to evolve? Will we see more innovative takes on local classics, or perhaps a resurgence of forgotten recipes? As the culinary landscape of Hilo expands, it will be fascinating to observe how local chefs draw from their heritage while also embracing global influences. The gravy burger is just the beginning of what could be an exciting culinary renaissance in Hilo. As we celebrate this vibrant community and its adventurous spirit, we encourage food enthusiasts to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring not just what’s on their plates but the stories behind each dish. The future of Hilo’s culinary identity is bright, and we can’t wait to see what flavors emerge next.
It makes sense that only in Hilo can you order something called a gravy burger. The sleepy town on Hawaiʻi Island has the distinction of being the birthplace of the loco moco, the classic local dish of hamburger patties, white rice, brown gravy and eggs being first served at the now-defunct Lincoln Grill in Hilo. Gravy burgers are really just loco mocos in burger form: an ordinary hamburger—or cheeseburger, your preference—topped with just enough brown gravy that it’s not dripping out, the way you would add ketchup to your burger.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
“Many local food joints have their version of the gravy burger, and many folks who are not from [Hilo] have never heard of them,” says Hilo-based Hawaiʻi food historian and author Arnold Hiura. But, he admits, no one knows who invented the gravy burger or which establishment was first to serve it. You can find basic (but delicious) gravy burgers at old-school drive-ins like K’s Drive-In and Blane’s Drive Inn. Hilo Burger Joint serves a more updated version called The Fatty, which combines two 4-ounce patties with two kinds of cheese, bacon, bread-and-butter pickles, sautéed mushrooms and onions, tomato slices, lettuce and—of course—brown gravy.
This story was originally published in our HAWAI’I Magazine Winter 2023 Issue. Buy a copy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.
Catherine Toth Fox is the former editor of HAWAIʻI Magazine and continues to contribute to the website and print publication.
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