Escape to Hawaii for Lunch: A Tropical Getaway at “Merengue Tama Plaza”

This is our review of Merengue Tama-plaza(Maps), visited in April 2026.

If you’re craving a little tropical escape without leaving Tokyo, Merengue Tama Plaza (メレンゲ たまプラーザ店) is the perfect lunch destination. With Hawaiian music floating through the air and a bright, open-concept interior, this café-restaurant lets you relax and recharge as if you were dining on a resort terrace in Honolulu.

A Hawaiian-Inspired Hideaway Just 5 Minutes from the Station

Located only about a five-minute walk from Tama Plaza Station, Merengue Tama Plaza welcomes you with a laid-back island atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The soft lighting, natural wood accents, and breezy décor create a space that makes you forget the city outside.

The sense of openness, the Hawaiian resort vibe, and the comfortably spacious seating is perfect for solo lunches, friendly catch-ups, or casual family meals. There are plenty of seats, including sofa spaces and private rooms, so it’s easy to find a spot that fits your mood.

What I Ordered for Lunch

This visit, I tried the Thai-style braised pork shank rice (豚すね肉の煮込みタイ風屋台めし), buttermilk fried chicken (バターミルクフライドチキン), tuna and avocado ahi poke bowl (マグロとアボカドアヒポキボウル), along with a mango lassi (マンゴーラッシー) and a glass of original white wine (オリジナルワイン白).

Each dish brought a different layer of tropical flavor to the table. The Thai-style pork shank came in a deep, aromatic sauce that paired beautifully with white rice. The poke bowl looked straight out of Waikiki, with vibrant red tuna and fresh green avocado creating a colorful, appetizing duo. The menu blends Hawaiian, Asian, and Western influences, making each plate both comforting and exciting.

Tasting the Flavors

The braised pork shank stood out for its tender texture and well-balanced flavor—sweet, salty, and just slightly tangy. It’s the kind of homely dish that satisfies both your appetite and your senses.

Next came the buttermilk fried chicken—crispy outside, juicy inside, and surprisingly light thanks to the creamy buttermilk batter. It had that perfect crunch without feeling heavy, ideal for lunchtime. The ahi poke bowl offered a refreshing contrast, highlighting the natural sweetness of the tuna and the smooth creaminess of avocado with every bite.

To finish off, the mango lassi was just what I needed—a silky, fruity drink that soothed my palate and added a refreshing tropical note. Paired with the original white wine, the meal felt elevated but still casual, landing right between a café lunch and a restaurant experience.

Perfect For:

  • Those wanting a bright, tropical lunch in Tama Plaza.
  • Fans of Hawaiian, Asian, or Western fusion cuisine.
  • Anyone looking to spend a relaxing afternoon with dessert or coffee.

Whether you visit for a hearty meal or a leisurely café break, Merengue Tama Plaza captures the essence of the islands—sunny, gentle, and full of flavor. If you’re searching for the best Hawaiian lunch in Tama Plaza, this is one spot that will leave you feeling like you’ve just had a mini vacation.