About this spot

Aloha in Alabama: Kalani’s Hawaiian Style Cafe

If you are looking for a tropical escape in the heart of the South, Kalani’s Hawaiian Style Cafe is a must-visit destination. Located in Phenix City, this vibrant eatery brings the authentic flavors of the islands to Alabama, serving up generous "plate lunches" and traditional favorites that taste like a vacation on a plate. It’s a place where the "Aloha Spirit" is alive and well, offering a unique and delicious alternative to standard Southern fare.

Traditional Flavors

Kalani’s specializes in the true Hawaiian Plate Lunch tradition, which is a soulful blend of native Hawaiian, Japanese, and Chinese influences. You can expect:

The Perfect Balance: Most meals follow the traditional "two scoops of rice, one scoop of macaroni salad" foundation.
Sweet & Savory Marinades: Dishes are often glazed with house-made teriyaki or soy-based sauces that perfectly balance salt and sugar.
Island Staples: Authentic preparation of ingredients like spam, slow-roasted pork, and fresh pineapple.

The vibe at Kalani’s is bright, cheerful, and incredibly welcoming.

The Decor: The interior is often filled with tropical accents, island colors, and Hawaiian memorabilia that transport you away from the mainland.
Warm Hospitality: The staff is known for their friendly, fast service and their willingness to explain the menu to newcomers who might be trying Hawaiian food for the first time.
Casual Vibe: It’s a "counter-service" style experience that is perfect for a quick, high-quality lunch or a relaxed family dinner.

Loco Moco: A true Hawaiian comfort classic—a juicy burger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and smothered in rich brown gravy.
Kalua Pork: Slow-cooked, smoky shredded pork that is tender and flavorful, mimicking the traditional underground oven (imu) cooking style.
Chicken Katsu: Crispy, deep-fried breaded chicken cutlets served with a signature tangy katsu dipping sauce.
Spam Musubi: A beloved island snack consisting of grilled spam on a block of rice, wrapped together with dried seaweed (nori).

Pro Tips

Don't Skip the Mac Salad: Many fans claim Kalani’s has some of the best Hawaiian macaroni salad in the region—it’s the creamy, cool counterpoint to the hot, savory meats.
Order the Mix Plate: If you can’t decide, ask for a "Mix Plate" to sample multiple proteins like Teriyaki Chicken and Kalua Pork in one go.
Check for Daily Specials: They occasionally offer limited-time island treats or special seafood dishes that aren't on the standard menu.

Practical Information

Address: 711 13th St, Phenix City, AL 36867.
Hours: Generally open for lunch and dinner (approx. 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM), though they sometimes close between lunch and dinner service, so check ahead!
Price Range: Affordable ($–$$). The portions are very large, often providing enough for two meals.
Service: Excellent for both dine-in and takeout.

1. What is a "Plate Lunch"?

It is the quintessential Hawaiian meal! It traditionally consists of two scoops of white rice, a scoop of creamy macaroni salad, and a main protein (like Kalua Pork or Teriyaki Chicken). It’s a hearty, filling meal designed to fuel you through the day.

2. Is the food spicy?

Generally, Hawaiian food is more savory and sweet than spicy. Most of the dishes at Kalani's are mild, though they usually have hot sauce available if you want to add a little kick to your meal.

3. Is there a good variety for children?

Absolutely. The Chicken Katsu and Teriyaki Chicken are huge hits with kids because they are crunchy, sweet, and approachable. The casual atmosphere is also very family-friendly.