Kelli Shiroma Braiotta
“Where should I go to eat?” Is a question I get a lot — whether it’s in person or via Instagram, from both friends and acquaintances via social media. I’m excited to share my findings and adventures with our community — not necessarily to tell them where to eat, but to give an accurate representation of what’s available out there. I love covering the new restaurants and new, local businesses popping up. Limited-time offerings (holiday cocktail bars, weekend pop-ups, etc.) are also exciting because sometimes they’re the result of fun collabs between local businesses.
I received my bachelor’s degree from Biola University, as well as my master’s degree in journalism at the University of Southern California. I was the associate editor of Frolic Hawaii from 2017 to 2021 under Honolulu Magazine, and then worked most recently as the dining editor of Crave with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.
My goal is for ASD’s dining section to be the premiere guide for the state. I’m excited to cover the food and dining scene, and to help our readers stay updated with all things food-related. It’ll be a fun, fresh start and I’m excited to be able to cover everything.
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.
Latest from Kelli Shiroma Braiotta
Hala Tree Café is opening in Waikīkī
The business closed its original Kaʻaʻawa store and is soft opening today in Waikīkī. It’s known for serving 100% Kona coffee, and this new location also features an in-house bakery. Hala Tree Café’s grand opening will be on July 1.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 19, 2026
Taormina Sicilian Cuisine launches its summer happy hour
The eatery, known for its authentic Sicilian cuisine, is launching its limited-time summer happy hour on June 19. Happy hour is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. daily, and features discounted drinks and pūpū — including 50% off the restaurant’s popular truffle carbonara.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026
Kamaʻāina can enjoy a 20% dining discount at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort
To kick off the summer, The Kāhala Hotel & Resort is offering a 20% kamaʻāina discount at Plumeria Beach House and Seaside Grill. The discount can be applied to Plumeria Beach House’s a la carte and buffet menus.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026
Linaka’s Catering offers twisted potatoes
The biz is known for its Puerto Rican and Hawaiian food, but the vendor started selling twisted potatoes — or spiral-shaped potatoes — earlier this year. So far, the business’s Ovah Load potato — topped with a secret sauce, sour cream, cheese and bacon bits — has been the most popular one.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026
Mercado de la Raza opens second location in Waipahu
This Latin American market is celebrating the grand opening of its second store this Saturday, June 20, in Waipio’s Koa Ridge. The block party will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This second location is bigger than the business’s original store on South Beretania Street.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026
Waimānalo Country Farms is open for its summer season
The farm’s sunflower fields usually open during mid-May, but this season started later due to the Kona Low storms in March. Waimānalo Country Farms will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until the beginning of July.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026
Chef Chai is featuring a prime rib special
The Kakaʻako eatery’s prime rib special ran from June 10 to 14, and it was so popular that it’s extended. Customers can take advantage of the four-course meal — which features prime rib as the entrée — from June 17 to 19. A prime rib carving station will also be added to the restaurant’s all-you-can-eat Father’s Day weekend buffet (June 20 and 21).
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026
Kouign Amann Day is coming June 20
Kona Coffee Purveyors and b. Patisserie are offering boba-inspired Kouign Amann flavors on this day only from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The specialty flavors include ube cream, black sesame coffee, brown sugar milk tea, peach oolong and more. Preorders are available.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 16, 2026
A staple in the Lahaina community: Māla Ocean Tavern
The restaurant, located on Front Street, officially reopened in February 2024 after closing due to the August 2023 Lahaina fire. Māla Ocean Tavern was the first restaurant to reopen on Front Street following the fires, and continues to serve as a popular spot for brunch and dinner in West Maui.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 16, 2026
Poke business K. Bay Bros. now has a food truck
K Bay Bros On the Go started about two weeks ago. The business is popping up around Oʻahu; its schedule for the week will be posted on Instagram.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 15, 2026
Where to celebrate Father’s Day 2026 – part 2
Whether you’re looking to dine-in or celebrate Father’s Day at home, we’ve got you covered. This guide also contains some local fare on Maui.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 13, 2026
Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening its third store in ‘Āina Haina
The new store — located in ‘Āina Haina Shopping Center, in the former space of Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha — will be celebrating its grand opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 13.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 12, 2026
Coffee Cruiser offers lattes and stuffed croissants in West Oʻahu
The business sells coffees and matchas out of its 1973 VW bus. The business usually pops up at Laulani Community Park in ‘Ewa Beach, and partners with other local businesses, like Lyman Lattes, to offer baked goods with its beverages.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 11, 2026
Biryani King serves Punjabi-style soul food
The eatery, which recently opened on Sheridan Street, offers a casual cafeteria-style dining experience in which customers can create their own one- or two-choice plates with options like butter chicken, meat biryani, samosas and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026
Choco leʻa launches summer specials
The Mānoa dessert shop is offering its Hokkaido-style soft serve and popular iced chocolate drink with cold brew coffee on a regular basis for the next few months. The latter is a collaboration with Morning Glass Coffee.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026
The Corndog Company of Hawaiʻi offers savory, hand-dipped treats
The Kahuku-based business now pops up at events across Oʻahu. It’s most known for its Epic dog — a one-fourth pound all-beef corndog — that’s coated in sweet and savory, golden-brown batter. The business will be popping up at the Haleʻiwa Arts Festival on June 13 and 14.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026
The Well Kailua just launched a new summer menu
The Kailua coffee shop — which opened last September — just started seasonal specials like mango sticky rice matcha lattes and tiramisu lattes. Its summer menu will be available until August.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026
House Without a Key launches new Sunday dinner buffet
The Halekulani eatery’s Aha ‘Aina Plantation Pā‘ina is a new Sunday dinner buffet that will run until Sept. 6. It celebrates Hawaiʻi’s diverse cultures, and guests will also have the chance to try the legendary KONG burger, created in partnership with radio icon Kamasami Kong.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 08, 2026
Coco’s Cravings 808 offers sweet and savory Japanese milk breads
While the business is known for its Cocobonz — cinnamon rolls made from Japanese-style milk bread dough — and savory pastries, connection through food continues to be essential for business owner Colleen Bui.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 08, 2026
Big Island Candies and 88 Tees launch second brand collaboration
The limited-edition collaboration features and exclusive gift box, tote bag, T-shirt and stickers. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the Big Island Candies x 88 Tees collaboration box from June 5 to 30 will benefit 808 Cleanups.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026
Bean on the Green is launching viral dot cake-inspired lattes
The coffee shop and matcha bar, located at Bayview Golf Course in Kāneʻohe, is open Fridays to Sundays. The business — which is open to the public, not only to golfers — is launching its trendy dot cake-inspired lattes and desserts this weekend; they will be available while supplies last.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026
Guaiqueri Empanadas offers authentic Venezuelan cuisine
The business, which opened in 2020, can now be found regularly at Plenty of Aloha’s market at the Varsity Building. Customers can look forward to arepas, empanadas, and featured specials that aren’t available at Guaiqueri Empanadas’ pop-up events.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026
Where to celebrate Father’s Day 2026 - part 1
Whether you’re looking to dine-in or celebrate at home, we’ve got you covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 04, 2026
Tempura Man offers udon and tempura bowls in Kakaʻako
The new business is located at Aloha Mamacita’s takeout window at Waterfront Plaza. The menu features made-to-order tempura bowls and udon; tempura is also available a la carte.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 03, 2026
Cinnamon’s Sweet Shop is open in Kailua
The sister business of Cinnamon’s Restaurant offers housemade cookies, specialty drinks like cream sodas, and a rotating selection of soft serve desserts.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026
Blanc Nook Café opens in Honolulu
The cozy café recently opened on Waimanu Street; it’s located above Ry’s Poke Shack’s Honolulu location. The space is home to an apparel line and a café, and business owner Momo Sakauye plans to expand the café menu to include more drinks.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026
Akira Japanese Restaurant has a new happy hour
The Japanese eatery recently launched a new happy hour menu, available daily from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Popular dishes include sashimi and sushi of the day, yuzu jalapeno hamachi and oysters with ponzu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026
CU Hawaiʻi opens third store on Oʻahu
The popular Korean convenience store brand recently opened in Kapahulu. Customers can enjoy popular features like the smoothie machine and Ramyun Library, in addition to slushy machines that are exclusive to this store. To celebrate its Kapahulu opening, CU Hawaiʻi is giving away tickets to BTS World Tour Arirang until June 4.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026
Budget Bites: $4 hand roll deal in Honolulu
Osoyami Bar & Grill features sports bar fare like burgers, fries and mozzarella sticks, but it’s also a hidden gem for sushi. The eatery launched a new deal, which features $4 hand rolls available every night except on Fridays and Saturdays.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 01, 2026
Okome Ten-don & Poke now offers Korean fried chicken
The Kakaʻako eatery, known for its tempura and poke bowls, opened last December. The business recently expanded its menu to include Korean-style fried chicken, kalbi and tteokbokki.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 29, 2026
Goofy Café & Dine opens second location
This popular brunch spot — whose original location is near Hilton Hawaiian Village — opened a second location at The Twin Fin Hotel. This new location features brunch, lunch, happy hour and an expanded dinner menu. The café’s grand opening is Friday, May 29.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 28, 2026
Everest Grill offers Indian and Nepali cuisine in Windward Oʻahu
The eatery, located in the former space of Kogi Aina in Kāneʻohe, opened earlier this year. Customers can enjoy a variety of popular Indian dishes, ranging from chicken momo and vegetable samosas to biryani and tandoor specialties.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
The Sweet Stand is a new bake stand in Kapolei
Business owner Ivy-Ann Fernandez, who originally opened home café Midori Matcha last year, decided to pivot and start a walk-up bake stand. Customers can enjoy a rotating selection of baked goods — ranging from cinnamon rolls and banana bread loaves to focaccia bread — and look forward to matcha and coffee bottled lattes in the future.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
Luna’s Tex-Mex Cantina is open in Ward Village
The restaurant opened about a week ago and is still in its soft opening phase. Customers can expect dishes like ceviche, housemade tortilla chips and guac, elotes, steak and chicken fajitas, and Baja fish tacos. The eatery is planning to extend its hours to include lunch service.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026
Chart House Waikīkī has a new late-night menu
The eatery’s new late-night menu is served nightly from 9 to 10:30 p.m. at the bar for dine-in only. Customers can enjoy plate lunch-style entrees like Hawaiian chopped steak and boneless prime barbecue short ribs.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026
The Surfing Pig has a hidden speakeasy
The Kaimukī eatery is also home to an “if you know, you know” speakeasy, which opened last fall. Customers must call the restaurant to make reservations for the speakeasy.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026
This Italian eatery has a new ‘land and sea’ themed menu
Botanico Waikīkī, which opened last fall, recently launched a new dinner menu. It highlights premium ingredients from the earth and ocean. Customers can enjoy dishes ranging from an anchovy and mentaiko potato salad and crab cream linguine to a crispy swordfish cutlet.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026
Budget Bites: $13 poke bowls at Noods Ramen Bar Hawaiʻi Kai
These poke bowls are only available at the ramen business’s East Oʻahu store. Choose from spicy ‘ahi, hurricane, ginger scallion and spicy garlic crunch.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026
Vintage Books Hawaiʻi relaunches brunch service with new chef
Chef Keith Endo, whose culinary background includes leading the kitchens at Vino and Ki Club, is now the executive chef at this Kaimukī speakeasy. Vintage Books Hawaiʻi re-launched its weekend brunch with a new menu in mid-April.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
Rainbow Drive-In has a new happy hour
The business’s new happy hour menu is at the Kapahulu location only on Mondays to Thursdays. Customers can enjoy $5, $10 and $12 specials, ranging from small Slush floats and chili fries to barbecue burgers and loco moco plates.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
New Korean fusion pop-up in Kaimukī
KoLab, formerly located in Kakaʻako, now offers a Korean-inspired breakfast within Kaimukī’s Aloha Bakehouse & Café. The biz offers fresh poke with crispy waffle rice, egg salad sandos and joomuk bap, or savory Korean rice balls.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026
New frozen Greek yogurt spot in Honolulu
Aloha Greek Waikīkī opened recently on Kūhiō Avenue. The business offers self-serve frozen Greek yogurt with Hawaiʻi-inspired flavors like ube, mango, liliko‘i and pineapple.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
Da Morning Grind Cafe is tucked away within a laundromat
The business’s takeout window is located on South King Street. Open for grab-and-go, the café offers a variety of coffees, teas, dirty sodas and specialty drinks, including a twist on the London Fog latte.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
Ry’s Poke Shack opens in Honolulu
The Kahuku-based biz opened its second location on Oʻahu this past weekend. The Honolulu location is located in the Ala Moana neighborhood next to Jugo Life, and features specialty collaboration poke flavors.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026
This acai bowl shop has a new location in Kāneʻohe
HI Cravings Windward opened a storefront in Kāneʻohe last March. It recently relocated to Windward City Shopping Center earlier this month, and now features extended hours.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 18, 2026
Festa Italiana 2026 is coming this June
The ticketed Passaporto Italiano VIP experience is June 5, while the street festival — which is free to attend — is June 6. The festival highlights a selection of authentic Italian and Italian-American restaurants and chefs from both Italy and Hawaiʻi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 15, 2026
PizzAlba is a new pizza pop-up in Kakaʻako
PizzAlba pops up on Thursdays in the space next to Bevy in Kakaʻako. You can also find the pizza biz at the Kakaʻako and Kailua farmers markets on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026
First look at Sonic’s new Oʻahu location
Sonic Kapolei, located at 5001 Kapolei Parkway, is opening May 16. This is the brand’s first drive-in restaurant on the island and Hawaiʻi’s second Sonic location. Customers can look forward to Sonic’s signature burgers, drinks and a Hawaiʻi-exclusive menu item.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026
Kukane Street Stand is a new bake stand in Kāneʻohe
The neighborhood bake stand offers a rotating selection of desserts and specialty lattes. Baked goods are available on a first-come, first-served basis; the bake stand is usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026
Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya is opening in Windward Mall
The business’s newest location is celebrating its grand opening on Wednesday, May 13. This is Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya’s seventh Hawaiʻi location. Customers can enjoy a discounted ramen offer on May 13, along with specials during the restaurant’s first week of operation.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026
Chef Jason Yamaguchi is the new consulting chef at Ki Club
Yamaguchi — who also owns Konpa, located in Southern California — is bringing Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to the Honolulu eatery. The new menu highlights Nikkei-style dishes ranging from ‘ahi nigiri and lomo saltado to mushroom ceviche.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 12, 2026
AYCE wagyu shabu shabu spot opens in Kapahulu
Mikiya Honolulu just opened its second location in Kapahulu Shopping Center. The eatery is currently open nightly from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Customers can look forward to meats ranging from Japanese A5 wagyu brisket to Australian wagyu, a self-serve veggie bar, and soft serve for dessert.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 11, 2026
53 By The Sea has a new chef and tasting menu
Internationally acclaimed chef Takayoshi Kawai is now at the oceanfront restaurant; he is known for his 1995 appearance on Fuji TV’s “Iron Chef.” Diners can choose from five-course and six-course tasting menus. The eatery plans to replace its former Sunday brunch with weekend lunch service in the upcoming months.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 11, 2026
Mai Tais & Burgers to Malama campaign runs through May
The Marriott Waikīkī Collection and Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa have launched this fundraising campaign to support the Hawaiʻi farmers affected by the Kona Low storms. Until May 31, five resort restaurants are donating $1 from every designated burger and mai tai sold to the Hawaiʻi Farmers’ Disaster Relief Fund.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 09, 2026
Thirty Eight launches a new happy hour
The Pier 38 eatery’s new happy hour is from Mondays to Saturdays. The restaurant also added a variety of new dishes — ranging from blackened ‘ahi salad to mahi sandwiches — to its lunch menu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 08, 2026
Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening in Honolulu
Acai business Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening its newest location at the Park Shore Waikīkī on Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m. This store is located close to Waikīkī Beach and Honolulu Zoo.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 08, 2026
Hot Pot Heaven Kailua is offering pho during lunch
Starting Friday, May 8, the eatery will offer pho, fresh spring rolls, summer rolls and papaya salad daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. These dishes are bestsellers at the eatery’s sister business, Pho Heaven.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 07, 2026
Fairway Tavern is now open at ‘Ewa Villages Golf Course
The eatery is owned by chef Adam Gilbert, previously of Monarch Poke and Plantation Tavern, and business partner Chris Natale. The eatery strives to offer local-style dishes — including its signature poke nachos — at affordable prices, and also features a grab-and-go section for golfers.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 06, 2026
Tango Empanadas is now open in Honolulu
The North Shore-based business is known for its authentic Argentinian flavors and housemade empanadas. The biz recently opened a second location in Honolulu, close to Ala Moana Center.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 05, 2026
These viral seafood bowls are now available for takeout
Totoya ʻAiea, known for its signature negitoro don, will have select seafood bowls available for takeout starting May 4. Takeout will be available during weekdays only at this location for now.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 04, 2026
This popular brunch spot has new dishes
Guieb Café — known for dishes like ube mascarpone pancakes, ube haupia French toast and prime rib loco moco — just added new dishes to its menu. New items are available at all Hawaiʻi locations; options range from strawberry red velvet waffles to Dubai waffles and a 12-ounce Korean rib-eye.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 04, 2026
This hidden sushi spot has a revamped happy hour
Tucked away in Nimitz Business Center, TORO — known for its sushi omakase experience — recently updated its happy hour menu. New dishes include soft shell crab, fried local Hawaiian octopus, and fried mochi, served takoyaki-style.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 02, 2026
Where to celebrate Mother’s Day – part 4
Dine-in and takeout options to celebrate Mom.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 01, 2026
Everbowl is soft opening second store with free acai bowls
The acai bowl spot, which opened its first location in Kapolei about one year ago, is soft opening tonight in Pearl City. Everbowl will be giving away around 300 free acai bowls from 5 to 8 p.m. April 30 only; it will be open for its first full day on May 1.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 30, 2026
Where to find treats for Children’s Day 2026
Specially decorated cakes, cookies, mochi and other desserts are available for a limited time.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 29, 2026
Grand Lānai Restaurant Week starts May 1
From May 1 to 10, participating restaurants at International Market Place’s Grand Lānai will feature special prix fixe menus starting at $55 per person.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 29, 2026
Arancino di Mare now serves housemade gelato
The eatery, known for its classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, just started serving housemade gelato at its Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa location. The gelato is currently available in four flavors, and will eventually expand to Arancino’s other locations.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 28, 2026
Michelin-recognized ramen spot is opening first Hawaiʻi location
MENSHO, founded in 2005 in Japan, is opening in Kapolei’s Ka Makana Aliʻi on May 2 at 5 p.m. The business is famous for its farm-to-bowl philosophy, and will feature Hawaiʻi-exclusive bowls like butter clam and garlic shrimp ramen.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 27, 2026
Where to celebrate Mother’s Day – part 3
Whether you’re looking for specialty desserts or an all-inclusive buffet, we’ve got you covered with a list that spans across the Islands.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 24, 2026
The 18th annual East Honolulu Food Festival is coming May 2
The festival, hosted by Mary, Star of the Sea Church and Schools in Kāhala, is themed “Under the Moon in Old Hawaiʻi” and features vintage vibes. The family-friendly event invites the public to celebrate local cuisine.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 24, 2026
SKY Waikīkī has a new steak and seafood menu
The eatery now offers a variety of 28-day dry-aged Black Angus beef premium choice steaks, along with elevated sushi rolls and seafood entrées.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 23, 2026
This sushi spot is celebrating a milestone with discounts
Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera is celebrating its two-year anniversary with 50% off on select nigiri. From April 24 to 27 — Friday to Monday — customers can take advantage of discounted maguro sushi. The discount is valid for dine-in only.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 22, 2026
You can find these fancy French cakes in Honolulu
Raphaelle Garwood, baker and owner of Fancy French Cakes, wanted to start a business that features some of her favorite confections. She currently bakes out of a commercial kitchen and her desserts — including caramel pecan tarts and Opera cakes — are available for online orders.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 22, 2026
Seattle-based Piroshky Piroshky is popping up in Honolulu
The Eastern European bakery’s flagship location is in Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market. It’s bringing its popular pastries to Honolulu Beerworks on June 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. While this event is in June, customers can already place pre-orders.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 22, 2026
The Pig & The Lady launches a pay-what-you-can dinner experience
The Kaimukī eatery’s new Only Good Vibes program supports food accessibility and local nonprofit organizations.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 21, 2026
New taiyaki spot in Honolulu
Boba Bing! is one of the newest vendors inside Midtown Eats food hall. The business specializes in boba, bingsu and waffle desserts. Its version of taiyaki — a Japanese fish-shaped pastry — features a selection of sweet and savory fillings.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 20, 2026
Da Burger Wing Hub opens second location in Kapolei
The eatery, whose original location is in Wahiawā, just opened at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oʻahu Kapolei. Its menu is mostly the same, with the addition of a few new appetizers. The eatery will be launching its weekend brunch menu soon.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 20, 2026
Where to celebrate Mother’s Day 2026 – part 2
From prix fixe menus and specials to limited-time desserts, we’ve got your Mother’s Day plans covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 18, 2026
Tonkatsu Tamafuji is now open in an expanded space
The popular tonkatsu spot just opened on the first floor of Hee Hing Plaza (downstairs from its former location). The new space features 1.5 times the amount of seating, with both counter and table seating available. Tonkatsu Tamafuji is only accepting walk-ins for the month of April.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 17, 2026
Everything you’ll find at the 22nd annual Waikīkī SPAM JAM Festival
The 2026 festival features more than 40 food and retail booths, a line-up of creative Spam dishes, limited-edition Spam slippers for sale from OluKai, and a Spam-themed drone show.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 16, 2026
MF Burger Shop is a new smashburger pop-up in Honolulu
The pop-up is around once a week and located next to Jugo Life in the Ala Moana neighborhood. Business owner Tommy Oh is striving to make a “good, simple” burger, which he pairs with beef tallow fries.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 16, 2026
Istanbul Hawaiʻi launches its spring menu
The Kakaʻako eatery’s new spring menu features lighter flavors and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy revamped dishes like hand-rolled pasta filled with Miyazaki A5 wagyu, chicken tagine with Kula orange and lemon blossom oil, and aged steak with zucchini sauce.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 15, 2026
Flair European Steakhouse is reopening in Kakaʻako
The eatery, which was temporarily closed for about two months, is reopening this week with a new chef and revamped menu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 15, 2026
604 Clubhouse revamped its brunch buffet
The eatery launched its brunch buffet in February. Since then, it’s made a few changes, and now features the buffet on both Saturdays and Sundays.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 14, 2026
Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu has a new, late-night happy hour
The Waikīkī eatery recently launched a new late-night kushikatsu menu. Feast on fried katsu skewers ranging from pork tenderloin and chicken to shrimp and oyster.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 14, 2026
Rise and Grind Coffee Bar expands
The business started in 2021 as a coffee trailer. Since then, it’s expanded to a brick-and-mortar storefront in Kailua — and recently expanded its space to include a larger kitchen and additional seating.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 13, 2026
New Girl Dinner in downtown Honolulu
The Dotted Line just launched an elevated meal called Girl Dinner, which includes chicken nuggets with crème fraiche, salmon roe and chives; Caesar salad; truffle fries and a filthy martini.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 13, 2026
Where to celebrate Mother’s Day – part 1
Whether you’re planning to dine-in or takeout, we’ve got you covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 11, 2026
Sumida Farm launches collabs to celebrate watercress season
The farm's watercress season was delayed as a result of heavy rains from the Kona Low storms in March. Sumida Farm is celebrating the start of watercress season this month with a series of collaborations with other local businesses.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 10, 2026
Kooks Coffee opens second location in Kakaʻako
The business opened its first location about one year ago at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Now, you can find its blue coffee trailer on Cooke Street in Kakaʻako as well. Kooks Coffee offers signature lattes with names inspired by surf terms.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 09, 2026
Alan Wong’s Restaurant officially opens at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort
Alan Wong’s new restaurant opens today in Kāhala. The menu features iconic dishes from the former King Street eatery, including ginger-crusted onaga with miso sesame vinaigrette, the whole tomato salad with li hing mui ume dressing, and “The Coconut” dessert of haupia sorbet in a chocolate shell.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 08, 2026
La Birria opens new brick-and-mortar restaurant
The eatery — known for its birria tacos — is opening its second storefront today in Pearl Kai Shopping Center. Its birria-centric menu includes queso birria tacos, birria ramen, and spicy hell fire tacos that feature a ghost pepper blend.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 08, 2026
Chef Jason Peel is launching a new weekend omakase
The new omakase is located in the new event space above Diamond Head Market & Grill. It’s weekends only with limited seating. Customers can look forward to dishes like ama ebi on crispy sushi rice, Tristan lobster in escargot butter with mochi bread, kanpachi confit with cabbage and wagyu atop mushroom truffle rice.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 07, 2026
Brick Fire Tavern launches specials to support Kona Low storm victims
The Kaimukī eatery — which recently launched its spring menu — is donating 100% of the proceeds from two specials this month to help support those affected by the Kona Low storms. The proceeds from the eatery’s garlic tide pizza and Care Package cocktail will be donated to Chef Hui’s Kona Low flood relief fund.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 07, 2026
Tandoori Express is now open in Ala Moana Center
The eatery is located in the former space of Himalayan Kitchen. It specializes in Pakistani-North Indian cuisine, and serves up dishes that were popular at the now-closed Bombay Palace.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 06, 2026
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice has dirty sodas
These customizable, non-alcoholic beverages feature a carbonated base and the business’s signature housemade syrups and creams.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 06, 2026
Limited-time menu for ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’
The movie started playing at all Consolidated Theatres locations starting April 1. Customers can enjoy a themed menu until April 12; exclusive Mario merchandise is also available while supplies last.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 03, 2026
Halekūlani’s French restaurant has a new grand tasting menu
La Mer, known for its Neo-Classic French cuisine served in a pristine setting, recently debuted a new menu degustation. The course menu only changes a few times a year; highlights from this version includes seared scallop with caviar, poached Maine lobster, and duck foie gras topped with cotton candy.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 03, 2026
Budget Bites: Foodland Farm Pearl City’s $6 eats
Each weekday features various $6 specials, including kalua pork burritos (Mondays), loaded nachos (Wednesdays), and kalua pork mini bowls, select sandwiches and mini bentos (Fridays).
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 02, 2026
Zephanie’s Pizza is bringing its taro crust pizzas to a second location
The business — which opened in October 2023 — is known for its Asian-Pacific inspired Neapolitan pizzas. It recently announced it will be opening a second location at Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center. While the business did not experience extreme damage from the Kona Low storms, its owners encourage the community to volunteer and help out the North Shore community.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 02, 2026
Inside look at the largest Chick-fil-A in Hawai‘i
The restaurant — located at Kapiʻolani Boulevard and Kalākaua Avenue — opens on April 2, with set hours from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays. Aloha State Daily got a preview of the new space at a media event, where we spoke with owner/operator Kurt Milne.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 02, 2026
Nori Bar Hawaiʻi opens Waikīkī location
The hand roll spot — whose original location is in Ward Village — just opened a second location on Kūhiō Avenue, in the former space of Ice Monster. This store is bigger than the Ward Village one, but features the same menu. Nori Bar Waikīkī will be open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 02, 2026
Noods Ramen Bar is offering a BOGO ramen deal
The eatery’s Kaimukī and Hawaiʻi Kai stores are offering a buy-one-get-one-free ramen deal this Saturday, April 4, in honor of National Ramen Day. The BOGO offer is valid for dine-in only.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaApril 01, 2026
Memories of Mariposa
Aloha State Daily talks with several customers and former staff members about their favorite memories of the iconic Ala Moana Center eatery, as they prepare to say “A hui hou” to Neiman Marcus and Mariposa.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 31, 2026
You can win free sandwiches for a month at E.A.R.L. Hawaiʻi
All three E.A.R.L. Hawaiʻi stores will be giving away bronze, silver and golden tickets (nine tickets total). Prizes include gift cards, goodie bags, and — if you get the golden ticket — a one-month sandwich pass that’s eligible for one sandwich per day for the month of April.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 31, 2026
Largest Chick-fil-A in Hawai‘i to open April 2
The restaurant — located at Kapiʻolani Boulevard and Kalākaua Avenue — will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays for dine-in, takeout, catering and third-party delivery. Guests who show up dressed in cow print on opening day will receive a free entree or kid’s meal.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 31, 2026
New lunch buffet at Polynesian Cultural Center
Polynesian Cultural Center’s new Hukilau lunch buffet debuts March 30. It costs around $25 per adult and includes options like slow-roasted kalua pork, Huli Huli chicken, chef’s catch of the day, creamy ulu mash and unlimited Dole Whip.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 30, 2026
Where to celebrate Easter 2026 – part 2
Hop to it — the holiday is coming up next weekend. Here are 21 options to consider.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 27, 2026
House of Sakura pop-up opens in Honolulu
This spring pop-up at Prince Waikīkī opens today. It will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. Thursdays to Sundays until May 31. Attendees can look forward to curated cocktails, premium sakes and shareable dishes in an aesthetic setting.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 26, 2026
Budget Bites: Zippy’s $10.99 Korean fried chicken and chili plate
The eatery’s popular Korean fried chicken and chili mixed plate will be discounted from March 30 to May 5. Limit five per person; this offer is available while supplies last.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 25, 2026
New taco carousels in Hawaiʻi Kai
Family-owned and -operated business Clau and Chui’s Cocina specializes in authentic Mexican food. The husband-and-wife team recently added new dishes to the menu, including a taco carousel and taco salad.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 24, 2026
Jamba Hawaiʻi is offering $2 lychee smoothies
$2 Lychee Day is coming up on March 24. Customers can enjoy a 16-ounce lychee smoothie for a discounted price from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jamba Hawaiʻi stores, while supplies last.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 24, 2026
New Vietnamese café open in Honolulu
Banh Mi’licious — inspired by the word “delicious” — recently opened in Kapalama Shopping Center. It’s the sister restaurant of Vietnam Deli, but its menu is focused on pho, banh mi sandwiches and side dishes like spring rolls.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 23, 2026
WESTMAN CAFE is open for brunch in Kakaʻako
The eatery, which closed its Waikīkī location in 2024, just soft opened in Ward Village. The cafe is currently open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for breakfast and brunch. Feast on dishes like avocado toast, mahi mahi loco moco, and the restaurant’s signature souffle pancakes.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 21, 2026
Sun Noodle deals with flooded streets
During heavy rains, street flooding becomes an issue for the Kalihi-based noodle factory. Aloha State Daily talks with Sun Noodle’s chief operating officer about the Kona Low’s impacts on the Honolulu business. The flooding is an issue the business has been raising with city and state officials for years.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 21, 2026
PEWA by Pono Potions is Chinatown’s newest cocktail lounge
Pono Potions’ new cocktail lounge features creative libations, along with lunch, pau hana and brunch menus.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 20, 2026
Makua Banana Bread’s next “mochi drop” is coming up
Orders for the business’s small-batch mochi banana bread only open once a month since it’s a limited item. The Haleʻiwa-based business also offers classic and chocolate chip banana bread, which can be ordered in-person or online.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 19, 2026
Save the date for 2026 Irasshai: Eat, Drink, Kanpai!
2026 Irasshai: Eat, Drink, Kanpai! by Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi is coming up April 3. Attendees can look forward to Japanese street food-inspired dishes, live music and refreshing beverages.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 18, 2026
Middle Eats brings its authentic flavors to Keʻeaumoku
Middle Eats features a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, ranging from hummus and falafel to kebabs and shawarma. The business recently opened within Midtown Eats food hall, located at The Park on Keʻeaumoku.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 18, 2026
Where to celebrate Easter 2026 – part 1
Get egg-cited for a variety of dining options.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 17, 2026
Ono-Ya Ramen Kapahulu is offering a BOGO ramen deal
The Kapahulu location is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a buy-one-get-one-free ramen deal from March 18 to 20. This offer is valid for dine-in only.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 17, 2026
Kona Low’s impact on local farms
Aloha State Daily talks with several farms on various areas of Oʻahu to learn about the storm’s impacts and how the community can support.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 17, 2026
Kapiʻolani Seafood Restaurant moves to new location
The eatery’s new location on Amana Street is just steps away from its former spot on Kapiʻolani Boulevard. The restaurant’s menu is the same, so customers can look forward to signature dim sum staples and shareable dishes like peking duck, honey walnut shrimp, Hong Kong style wonton noodles and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 13, 2026
Elotes business Corn Onoz Hawaiʻi opens its first store
The business, which specializes in creative dishes centered around corn, pops up at night markets and events across Oʻahu. It just celebrated the grand opening of its new storefront in Pearl City.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 13, 2026
Le Petit Chef dinner experience available in Honolulu
This creative experience features a combination of 3D projection technology and culinary excellence. The dining experience is available nightly at Romer House Waikīkī.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 12, 2026
Preview of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaiʻi’s new Honolulu store
The biz is officially opening its first Honolulu store in Kaimukī on March 13, but its soft opening is tomorrow. The menu features a variety of hot and cold drinks.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 12, 2026
San Paolo Pizza & Wine is starting brunch
The Honolulu-based eatery, known for its Italian-Brazilian fusion, is launching its new brunch menu starting March 14. Brunch will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekends only for now. The menu features a mix of classics — including French toast, pancakes and avocado toast — with unique options like Brazilian breakfast platters, spaghetti carbonara and bombolonis (malasadas).
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 11, 2026
ZIGU launched a new late-night happy hour
Located in Waikīkī, the Japanese izakaya’s new late-night menu is offered from 9 to 11 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays. Customers can enjoy discounted dishes like mochiko fried chicken, spicy tuna roll, hot sukiyaki soba and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 10, 2026
Cool Cat Express brings its burgers back to West Maui
Cool Cat Café, known for its burgers and shakes, originally opened on Front Street in Lahaina in 2003. After the 2023 Lahaina fires, the business reopened in Kihei; last summer, the biz opened an express location in Whaler’s Village, and is now open there daily.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 09, 2026
Thirty Eight Honolulu launches lunch service
The new eatery, which recently opened for dinner at Pier 38, just debuted its new lunch menu. The menu features some of the most popular pūpū from the dinner menu, along with elevated plate lunches like a mix plate, Korean fried chicken, loco moco and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 07, 2026
Where to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2026
Get ready to (sham) rock and roll with green beers, corned beef and these limited-time specials.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 06, 2026
New happy hour at Prince Waikīkī
100 Sails Restaurant & Bar’s new happy hour menu is available daily from 4 to 6 p.m. in the restaurant’s bar and lounge area. Dishes include poke nachos, brisket sliders — a happy hour exclusive — coffee rib-eye steak and barbecue chicken pinsa flatbread. Also new: The eatery’s secret menu, which includes a mouthwatering bone-in beef rib platter.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 05, 2026
Alejandro’s Mexican Food opens in Pauoa
This is the third location for the business, which opened its first store in Kalihi Valley in 2015. Customers can look forward to tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nacho fries and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 04, 2026
Leonard’s Bakery has a new malasada mobile location
The newest malasada mobile location is on Lagoon Drive, near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. It’s open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and customers can get “travel packs” of malasadas right before catching their next flight.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 03, 2026
Budget Bites: Da Crawfish & Crab Shack’s $10 plate lunches
This Kapolei eatery is known for its seafood boils, but offers $9.99 lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 02, 2026
New bento and musubi shop opens in Downtown Honolulu
U-Kitchen Hawaiʻi — whose original location is in Kalihi — is known for its affordable bentos, but the Downtown Honolulu store has several exclusive items, including assorted musubi, chicken katsu bentos and chicken katsu curry.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMarch 02, 2026
‘Sip’ on these aesthetic matcha lattes
Sippin’ Pretty specializes in curated matcha lattes and coffees. The biz pops up at various events across Oʻahu. While the banana bread latte and cream latte are popular choices from its regular menu, the biz also offers monthly specials. March brings St. Patrick’s Day-themed specialties like End of the Rainbow and Charmed & Lucky.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 28, 2026
Pitch Sports Bar launches a new lunch sushi omakase
This Kakaʻako sports bar’s omakase is a hidden gem. Its new lunch offering costs $80 per person, features 12 courses, and is available daily between 12 and 1 p.m.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 27, 2026
This late-night Chinatown spot has a new menu
Bar 35’s new food menu launched in December and now includes tacos and more shareable dishes. Its new chef, Julio Gutierrez, came from now-closed Tlaxcalli — and brought his popular tacos with him.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 27, 2026
This “Shokudo Throwback” menu is available for a limited time
Shokudo is celebrating its 21st anniversary with different specials at its various locations from March 1 to 14. Waikīkī Shokudo will offer 21% off select dishes; Kaimukī Shokudo will feature a “throwback” menu — with favorites from the business’s original Kapiʻolani location — and Poke Stand by Shokudo will offer $10 poke bowls.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 26, 2026
Where to find treats for Girls’ Day 2026
Whether you’re looking for mochi or specialty desserts, we’ve got you covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 25, 2026
CU Hawaiʻi opens in Kāhala
The Korean convenience store just opened its second location in Kāhala Korner, the same plaza as Kapa Hale and Olive Tree Café. The store opened in the former Subway space, and while not as big as the brand’s Downtown Honolulu location, it includes some of its most popular features.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 25, 2026
Kanoya Sushi Grill & Bar launches new lunch specials
The Honolulu eatery just started a new menu of lunch specials, which are available from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays. Customers can choose two- or three-roll lunch sets, entrée lunch combos and even a sashimi option.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 24, 2026
New Kamana Kitchen 3 opens in Kailua
The eatery — which has locations in downtown Honolulu and Kapahulu — recently opened in Kailua Shopping Center. The biz prides itself on serving authentic Indian cuisine using traditional recipes. Customer favorites range from butter chicken and mango lassi to tandoori chicken.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 24, 2026
James Beard Foundation collaboration dinner coming to Waikīkī
Beachhouse at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, and Azure Restaurant at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, are featuring dinner menus from a sold-out James Beard Foundation event last month in New York City. These “Modern-Day Lūʻau” experiences will be available in Honolulu for a limited time.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 24, 2026
New Vietnamese cafe opens in Kakaʻako
Rollin’ Rolls Cafe opened recently in the former space of Hibachi Honolulu, next to Mad Pie in Kakaʻako. The biz offers a variety of spring and summer rolls, banh mi sandwiches and Vietnamese coffees.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 23, 2026
Executive Vineyards 2026 is coming this March
The annual fundraising event for the Shidler College of Business Alumni Association will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort. Here’s a sneak peek of the restaurant line-up.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 21, 2026