I've found that Hawaiian plate meals are love-it or hate-it deals. If you don't know what to expect, you may be disappointed. If you know what to expect, you know that each restaurant does their own variation on a theme. Portions are usually large, and I can only thank heavens that Hodgepodge does not include the dreaded SPAM plate on the menu...
Hodgepodge DOES give you steamed rice (LOTS of rice), macaroni salad and banana bread. The teriyaki chicken is sticky, slightly sweet, and plentiful. There are also pork options, noodles and pocket sandwiches. Friends have raved about their chicken tortilla soup. They also offer salads, including a coleslaw spiked with pineapple.
My personal choice is almost always the veggie pocket -- lettuce, carrots, shredded cheese, peanuts and a delicious peanut sauces.
Hodgepodge has a loyal following, and many in Eugene were mightly disappointed when several locations closed. The Valley River Center mall no longer has a Hodgepodge, so you will have to face the traffic on your drive to 2190 West 11th Avenue (where they offer drive through service!) The good news is that there is also Prince Pucklers ice cream at this location!
The decor is sun and surf, and the restaurant is cafe seating with lots of space and light. It always seems a little disorganized (because they are so busy.) Lines move quickly, but lunch hour can be a bear.
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