Hawaiian Bros changes Royals deal after overwhelming turnout (& traffic) in KC
Kansas City Royals fans can still get their free meal from Hawaiian Bros ... but only after they cough up some dollars.
To start the season, every time the Royals scored six or more runs while playing at home, members of Kansas City-based chain Hawaiian Bros’ loyalty program could claim a free classic plate lunch the following day through the Plates for Plates promotion.
But the Royals’ high-scoring games saw the chain’s 27 locations slammed with customers. They served more than 42,000 meals and added over 24,000 rewards members. The Royals have scored more than six runs in eight of their 19 home games so far this season.
To counteract the large numbers, the company changed its policy to make the reward a BOGO meal. Rewards members only get a free classic plate lunch with the purchase of another plate lunch the day after the game.
The change begins immediately.
“You packed our restaurants, lit up social media, and turned this into something way bigger than a promotion. And honestly, we’ve loved every second of it,” the company said in a statement to members.
“But man ... it’s been WILD. Our restaurant teams have been absolutely crushed in the best possible way, working around the clock to keep up with the response, the lines, and the wave after wave of Royals fans showing up hungry.
“So to keep Plates for Plates sustainable, exciting, and alive for the long haul, we’re making an adjustment.”
The promotion can be found in the Kansas City region and surrounding cities, and stretches to restaurants in Arkansas, Iowa and Nebraska. Regional landmark cities will also have the deal available, such as in Columbia, St. Louis, St. Joseph and Springfield in Missouri, and Lawrence and Manhattan in Kansas.
Rewards members will see the one-day offer in their account the day after the Royals score six runs.
“The celebration continues. The tradition continues. And the spirit of Plates for Plates absolutely continues,” Hawaiian Bros said.
This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 8:03 PM.
