Why shrimp trucks rule this coast
From the 1970s, aquaculture farms took root on the old sugarcane land around Kahuku, raising shrimp in ponds. Frying that shrimp in plenty of garlic butter and selling it from roadside trucks turned out to be a very good idea, and a North Shore food tradition was born.
Tanaka's is one of the trucks in that scene. The classic order is garlic butter shrimp with two scoops of rice to soak up the sauce.
Ordering lunch
Lunch is paid for separately, so you order exactly what you want. Garlic butter is the classic, spicy versions are there for the brave, and there are vegetarian options. Eat at the shaded tables and save a little room, because the fruit stands and Dole Plantation are still ahead.
What you'll experience here
- Garlic butter shrimp plates
- The story of Kahuku's shrimp farms
- Shaded tables with your group
- Vegetarian options available
This stop is on the The North Shore leg of the loop.
Questions about this stop
Is lunch included on the circle island tour?
No. Lunch at Tanaka's is paid for separately, so everyone orders what they like.
Are there options if I don't eat shrimp?
Yes. Vegetarian options are available. Let your guide know about any allergies at pickup.
Where it fits in the day
This is stop 6 of 9 on the Oahu circle island tour itinerary, a 9.5-hour loop with pickup from six set points in Waikiki.