Now that Dave & Buster’s has relocated from its longtime locale in Ward Entertainment Center to Ala Moana Center, what’s next for the space?
Aloha State Daily reached out to representatives of Ward Village to find out. Here’s what Ward Village General Manager Taylor Herring said in a statement provided to ASD late last week:
“Ward Village remains a highly sought-after destination, and we are actively engaging with new prospects that will bring fresh, exciting experiences to the community. We appreciate the many memories created at Dave & Buster’s over the years and wish them the best in their new location. As we look ahead, we are excited to welcome concepts that align with our vision and enhance the vibrancy of the neighborhood.”
Since it's not unusual to hear kama'āina wonder if the complex is destined to be redeveloped, we followed up to ask more specifically if Ward Village intends to keep the building as-is and lease space out to new tenants.
“Ward Entertainment Center is a great destination and anchor in Ward Village for the community. We continue to see excellent momentum with the addition of new shops and restaurants throughout the neighborhood,” Herring said in a follow-up statement provided to ASD.
Dave & Busters closed at Ward Entertainment Center on April 1 after more than two decades in that spot. It reopened in a nearly 45,000-square-foot space at Ala Moana Center on April 14 and can now be found on the street level of the center’s ‘Ewa Wing.
As ASD previously reported, the new location will offer hundreds of new and classic arcade games, including a “Human Crane” game and other immersive experiences. Read more about the new spot here.
Ward Village is Howard Hughes' 60-acre master-planned community located between Downtown Honolulu and Waikīkī.
Already home to more than 60 businesses, nine new restaurants and retailers are set to open in Ward Village this year. Ginza Sushi will relocate this month to a 1,335-square foot space at Ward Entertainment Center that was formerly home to the Broome Street General Store pop-up.
Stephanie Salmons can be reached at stephanie@alohastatedaily.com.
