Several new eateries are set to open starting later this year at Kamehameha Schools' mixed-use redevelopment in Mō‘ili‘ili.
Waiānuenue at Kapa‘akea is part of the first phase of the greater Kapa‘akea redevelopment, and the project aims to revitalize the existing retail area "to create a lively, colorful shopping district filled with eclectic local shops, diverse eateries and engaging spaces," the Waiānuenue website notes. Its name pays homage to the "shimmering rainbows that grace Mānoa's skies."
Located across University Avenue from Puck's Alley, the initial lineup of local and globally-inspired businesses was announced earlier this month. Here's what you'll find, according to a recent announcement from Colliers Hawai‘i, the commercial real estate firm handling the leasing.
- Shaka Shaka Tea, a Hawai‘i-born beverage brand known for handcrafted fruit teas, milk teas and smoothies, will relocate from its current Puck's Alley location.
- The Well, a locally owned cafe that serves coffee, specialty drinks and fresh food.
- Paris Baguette, offering an array of fresh-baked pastries, artisan breads, cakes, sandwiches and beverages, will open its fourth Hawai‘i location.
- Ramen Asukaya, known for its authentic Japanese ramen, broths and other dishes inspired by traditional recipes.
- Local Boy Sushi, a family-owned restaurant, will open its third location.
- Wingstop, a national brand with multiple locations across O‘ahu.
- Phuket Thai University returns from the former Varsity Center.
- Morning Brew, a Hawai‘i-grown cafe and bistro, will open it third location here.
- Oakberry Hawai‘i, known for its acaí bowls and smoothies, will open its fourth location at Waiānuenue.
- Broke Da Mouth Grindz, a family-owned and operated business offering up local, Hawaiian and Filipino dishes, known for its garlic furikake chicken.
- Island Manapua plans to open a new dim sum concept.
A 2023 announcement about the redevelopment noted the project encompassed the Varsity Center, East-West Building, 2535 Coyne St. and the surrounding parking lots.
Financial returns from Waiānuenue will support educational initiatives throughout KS' Vision 2040, which benefit early learning, K-12 education, college and career readiness, and other community programs, that announcement noted.
The revitalization project broke ground in 2024 and is expected to open later this year, a KS spokesperson told Aloha State Daily in an email, noting that the timeline is consistent with KS's previously announced plans for opening.
"Waiānuenue is envisioned to include eateries, retail, and services from local, national and global brands that want to contribute to the vibrancy of the Mōʻiliʻili community," the spokesperson says. "The first tenant anticipated to open is Oakberry Hawaiʻi in late September or early October 2026."
According to the listing, Waiānuenue at Kapa‘akea will offer a total of 18,929 square feet of office and retail spaces for lease. You can find the full brochure here. Leasing is being led by Colliers Hawai‘i Senior Vice President Emalia Pietsch and Senior Associate Gabrielle Chock.
The broader Kapa‘akea project includes Waiānuenue, Puck's Alley, the Varsity Building and surrounding parking lots, the spokesperson noted.
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Stephanie Salmons can be reached at stephanie@alohastatedaily.com.
