Masa & Joyce Okazuya: Beloved Okinawan and Hawaiian Food Take-out Spot for Over 4 Decades

It’s easy to miss the humble facade of the Masa & Joyce (Okazu-ya) Okinawa/Japanese Delicatessen. Just off the Kalanianeole Hwy, this off-the-beaten-path gem is much more than a food takeout spot—it’s a portal to the rich culinary heritage of Okinawa and Hawaii. Known for its mouthwatering homemade dishes like Okinawan rafute and Hawaiian plate lunches, this family-owned establishment has been a local favorite for over four decades. Drawing locals and visitors alike, it’s celebrated for its authenticity, heartwarming flavors, and the connection it offers to Hawaii’s vibrant food culture.

This lunch spot was a regular habit for us in the late 90’s while working and living on the windward side of Oahu. We still make a point of stopping to eat here anytime we’re passing through Kaneohe, a treat for both us and our kids. This is the kind of local favorite that families have been enjoying for generations – a sure sign of something special!

A Taste of History

Masa & Joyce Okazuya opened its doors in 1978, founded by the husband-and-wife duo Masa and Joyce. Deeply rooted in their Okinawan heritage, the couple shared a vision of bringing traditional Japanese and Okinawan flavors to Kaneohe. Masa, a talented chef, honed his skills crafting dishes that stayed true to the recipes of his homeland, while Joyce’s warm hospitality made every visit feel like coming home. Over the decades, the deli has remained a family-owned business, with their legacy carried forward by the next generation, ensuring the continuation of their dedication to quality and tradition.

An okazuya is a Japanese-style delicatessen specializing in side dishes, or “okazu,” which are traditionally served alongside rice to create a balanced meal. These dishes can include simmered vegetables, pickles, fried items, fish, and tofu. In Hawaii, the concept of an okazuya evolved to incorporate the islands’ multicultural influences, blending Japanese culinary traditions with local Hawaiian favorites. Hawaiian-style okazuyas often serve iconic dishes like musubi, shoyu chicken, and macaroni salad, making them a beloved part of the food culture in the islands.

Masa & Joyce’s okazuya takes this fusion to the next level, offering a unique menu that reflects Okinawan, Japanese, and Hawaiian flavors. Their combination of traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients has solidified their reputation as a treasured culinary destination what they like to call Hawaii-style “comfort” food.

What’s on the Menu?

Visitors to Masa & Joyce can expect a delightful array of homemade Okinawan, Japanese, and Hawaiian dishes that are as comforting as they are flavorful. Each dish is prepared with care, reflecting generations of family recipes and the owners’ dedication to quality. A few highlights include:

Okinawan Rafute: A slow-braised pork belly dish simmered in soy sauce, awamori (a traditional Okinawan liquor), and sugar, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Andagi: Sweet, deep-fried Okinawan doughnuts that are crisp on the outside and soft inside, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Fresh Fish: A selection of fresh, beautifully arranged sushi platters, rolls, and poke bowls that showcase the delicacy of Japanese culinary techniques.
Hawaiian Plate Lunches: From laulau to kalua pig, these dishes celebrate Hawaii’s comfort food staples.
Daily Specials: The menu often includes rotating specials, such as shoyu pork or loco moco fusions, ensuring there’s always something new to try.

Masa & Joyce is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural bridge that connects Okinawan and Hawaiian traditions. The owners have worked tirelessly to preserve the culinary practices of their ancestors while adapting to Hawaii’s local palate. By doing so, they’ve created a space where stories, recipes, and heritage come together. For the Kaneohe community, Masa & Joyce is a symbol of resilience and the power of food to bring people together. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or indulging in a family-style meal, you’re not just eating—you’re participating in a legacy of love and culture.

The next time you’re in Kaneohe, make time to stop by Masa & Joyce for breakfast or lunch. Get there early – they close at 2pm so you run the risk of missing the best dishes of the day if you’re late for the lunch rush! We recommend stopping in early to pick-up everything you need for a picnic at the nearby Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden to make the most of a day on the windward side of Oahu.

Contact:

Address : 45-582 Kam. Hwy. Kaneohe, HI 9674

(808) 235-6129

https://masaandjoyce.com

by Honolulu Vibes