Food & Dining
Hawai‘i Cuisine: Food, Flavors, and Local Favorites
Exploring all your favorite Island dining, from cheap eats to high-end. Craving omakase? We’ve got you covered. Shave ice? Sure thing! Loco moco? Like we’d forget! We’ve got heaping bowls of poke, and acai. You’ll find pau hana deals, foodie cocktails and delicious mocktails. Of course, none of that would be possible without the chefs, bakers, and mixologists you’ll meet here. We also take you to the Hawai‘i farms that fuel our farm-to-table movement.
News
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
Zippy's Restaurants celebrates 60th anniversary in 2026
Brothers Francis and Charles Higa opened the first Zippy's Restaurant in Honolulu's McCully neighborhood on Oct. 17, 1966. Aloha State Daily recently caught up with Jason Higa, CEO of Zippy's parent company, FCH Enterprises, to learn about the restaurant's origins, its legacy and more.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 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
Hawai‘i Farm Bureau, partners, launch farm damage survey
"If your ag operation was affected by the Kona Low Storm, we want to hear from you," the Bureau said. "Your responses will help identify needs to secure funding for recovery programs."
A. Kam NapierMarch 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
Kaua‘i Poke Fest named one of 10 Best Specialty Food Festivals
The sixth annual Kaua‘i Poke Fest returns to Kōloa Landing Resort in June.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 17, 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
Hawaiʻi Kai ice cream shop spreads joy during storm
Trang Hammond, owner of Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream, took it to Instagram on Saturday during severe weather to share some good news with customers stuck at home: Free ice cream until supplies last! She told Aloha State Daily about making the call and how the community showed up.
Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMarch 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
Stop by and say aloha to Aloha State Daily at Hawaiʻi FoodieCon & Spring Expo
Explore more than 200 vendors — including 100 food vendors — from March 28-29 at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Plus, enter for a chance to win prizes from ASD like a staycation at White Sands Hotel in Waikīkī and a Wai Kai Ultimate experience for four, and more.
Kady PascualMarch 13, 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
Bad Ass Coffee opens in Kaimukī March 13
You'll find the newest location at 3502-C Wai‘alae Ave.
Stephanie SalmonsMarch 07, 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
Fish, it's what's for lunch
Invasive fish species were on the menu at the close of the three-day Eat the Invaders Fishing Tournament organized by the nonprofit Mālama Maunalua and held at Maunalua Bay. Learn just how many fish were captured as part of the event.
Katie HellandMarch 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
New Korean grocery store open in Honolulu
You Me Mart just soft opened on Ke‘eaumoku Street. The business is located in the same space as French-Korean bakery TOUS les JOURS, in the former Ross space.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 21, 2026
New weekday dinner buffet at Prince Waikīkī
100 Sails Restaurant & Bar just launched a new chef selection dinner buffet, available from 5 to 9 p.m. Mondays to Wednesdays. This buffet costs $62 per adult; instead of action stations like prime rib or sushi handrolls, it features specialty items like roasted beef tri tip, guava barbecue pork ribs, mushroom risotto and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 20, 2026
New seafood restaurant opens at Pier 38
Located in the former space of Nami Kaze Hawaiʻi at Pier 38, Thirty Eight restaurant just opened to the public for dinner. The menu focuses on fresh seafood; customers can enjoy dishes like hamachi crudo, poke crackers, shrimp toast, and a fried whole moi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 19, 2026
Aloha Beer Co. launched a new menu
The Kakaʻako brewpub’s new menu features a variety of appetizers, seafood dishes, entrees and pizzas that are designed to pair well with the venue’s beverages. Customers can also create their own mixed six-pack of canned beers.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 19, 2026
New dumpling shop in Honolulu
Located on the second floor of Discovery Bay Center, Waikīkī Snack Store recently opened. The shop — which specializes in Northern Chinese cuisine, including handcrafted dumplings and wontons in bone soup — also offers interactive ramen and shave ice stations.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 18, 2026
You can get $1 shave ice this Saturday
Matsumoto Shave Ice is celebrating its 75th anniversary this Saturday, Feb. 21. The community is invited to enjoy a variety of specials, including $1 small shave ice (no toppings included), discounted anniversary T-shirts and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 18, 2026
The Savellano’s Lechon business specializes in crispy pork belly
The biz officially launched in 2023 and offers lechon pork belly plates, along with whole lechon rolls. Its lechon is made using a family recipe, and is known for its ultra-crispy texture and tender meat.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 17, 2026
Celine’s Best launches new potato wand snack
The business, originally known for its waffle dogs, participates in various events across Oʻahu. It just launched new potato wands — shredded potatoes with a cheesy crust — which are available in six topping combinations.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 16, 2026
Viral seafood rice bowl spot is opening in ʻAiea
Totoya Hawaiʻi, known for its negitoro bowls, is opening in ʻAiea Shopping Center on Sunday, Feb. 15. The menu here is the same as the business’s other two locations in the Ala Moana and Kaimukī neighborhoods. Customers can now add “ikura showers” when ordering specific seafood bowls.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 14, 2026
Egghead Café is offering Lunar New Year specials
Starting Feb. 17, the business will be handing out lucky red envelopes to kamaʻāina who spend $25 or more. The envelopes will include coupons with prizes ranging from free entrees to discounts on the customers’ entire meal.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 13, 2026
Buy one, get one free ramen deal at this new shop
The Broth Bar Noodle House is opening Feb. 14 in Kāhala. Its grand opening festivities are Feb. 14 to 16, and customers can take advantage of a BOGO ramen deal during all three days.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 13, 2026
New Casamigos lounge experience in Honolulu
Located on the 37th floor of the Hilton Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa, Casamigos House of Friends is a new lounge that’s open to both, local patrons and hotel guests. Enjoy curated Casamigos tequila cocktails, along with shareable appetizers.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 13, 2026
Sakura Sushi & Hibachi has a new all-you-can-eat sushi menu
The eatery, located in Ka Makana Aliʻi, now offers AYCE sushi during lunch and dinner on Mondays to Thursdays. The AYCE experience costs $28.95 per adult during lunch and $38.95 per adult during dinner.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 12, 2026
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues nationwide growth
The chain opened 14 new locations 2025 and was recently ranked on Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500.
Stephanie SalmonsFebruary 12, 2026
Bakudan's Poke is now open in Kalihi
The business, which used to be in Mapunapua, is known for its poke flavors and Bakubombs, which are cone sushi stuffed with a torched crab filling or poke. Bakudan's Poke has teamed up with Laʻakea Fish Company and operates out of the business’s store in Kalihi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 12, 2026
Lil T Cup Café is now open in ‘Aiea
The new café is celebrating its grand opening this Saturday, Feb. 14. The community is invited to check out the café for free samples and prizes.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 11, 2026
New Adult Happy Meals available in Honolulu
Located within the AC Hotel Honolulu, The Dotted Line’s new Adult Happy Meals are available from 1 to 6 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. They cost $25 and include an entrée of your choice, fries, a cocktail and candy bar.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 10, 2026
New sandwich shop opening in Kapolei
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop is opening its new Kapolei location on Tuesday, Feb. 10. The business is known for its loaded hot and cold subs; bestsellers include Cap’s BLT, classic cheesesteak and The Bobbie.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 09, 2026
Where to celebrate Lunar New Year 2026
Welcome the Year of the Fire Horse with these limited-time specials.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 07, 2026
Kaimukī sandwich shop named best in Hawai‘i on new 50 Best list
The newest 50 Best list from Only in Your State — devoted to the 50 Best Sandwich Shops Across the U.S. — has declared its winner.
Stephanie SalmonsFebruary 07, 2026
Where to eat on Valentine’s Day – part 3
From prix fixe menus and specials to limited-time desserts, we’ve got your Feb. 14 covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 06, 2026
Alan Wong’s Kāhala restaurant is opening March 25
Hoku’s at The Kāhala’s last dinner service is Feb. 20. Alan Wong’s Kāhala Hotel & Resort will open to the general public on April 8; guests who book The Kāhala Hotel & Resort’s Legacy of Aloha package can secure early access to experience the new restaurant.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 06, 2026
This Japanese-style hamburger steak spot now has curry
Located in Kaimukī, Marujuu Hawaiʻi opened last November with its sizzling hamburger steaks. The eatery just added new dishes to its menu — customers can look forward to curry lunch specials, and new meaty entrees like rib-eye steak and a meat lovers set.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 05, 2026
Inari Factory brings back $1.50 deals
The business, located at Don Quijote Kāheka, is celebrating its two-year anniversary. Customers can take advantage of $1.50 inari bombs and hand rolls from Feb. 5 to 10.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 05, 2026
Grill N’ Eats specializes in smashburgers with ube buns
The family-owned and -operated business officially launched last December. It specializes in smashburgers, which feature double patties and the business’s signature ube brioche buns.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 04, 2026
Budget Bites: Up Roll Café’s $10 poke bowls
The Pearl Highlands Center location offers a weekday happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m. Customers can enjoy $10 poke bowls, along with $11 ramen.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 04, 2026
Café Miro Kaimukī has a new a la carte menu
The Kaimukī eatery recently changed its format to offer both, a prix fixe menu and an a la carte dining option. New a la carte dishes include a café burger, wagyu beef tartare, roasted garlic bone marrow and an indulgent soft serve dessert.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 03, 2026
604 Clubhouse has a new breakfast buffet
The eatery, located at Leilehua Golf Course in Wahiawā, recently started a new Saturday breakfast buffet. The all-you-can-eat experience costs $60 per adult and includes a prime rib carving station, snow crab legs, an omelet station and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 02, 2026
Munch ʻN Brunch opens new Waikīkī café
Munch ʻN Brunch opened as a food truck in Waikīkī almost three years ago. Now, the biz has expanded and opened its first brick-and-mortar café location at Eaton Square.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaFebruary 02, 2026
New café specializes in matcha and musubi
Located in Hotel Renew, As You Like Waikīkī offers a variety of matcha-based drinks and musubi in a variety of flavors. If you want to try multiple flavors, go for the musubi bento.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 31, 2026
Where to eat on Super Bowl Sunday 2026
No matter what team you’re cheering for, we’ve got dining options for the big game.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 30, 2026
Pizza Mamo updates its interior and menu
Last October, the Chinatown eatery announced via social media that it was temporarily closing to “give its place a facelift.” The restaurant reopened around mid November with a refurbished bar area — and a few new dishes on the menu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 29, 2026
Babadi Sushi brings Brazilian sushi to Oʻahu’s North Shore
The biz offers a variety of uramaki and nigiri, along with Brazilian sushi, which is known for its deep-fried exterior and use of cream cheese, salmon and tropical fruits.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 29, 2026
Genki Sushi launched its new grand menu
The menu has 140 dishes and 40 brand-new options, including crispy rice with spicy tuna, aburi char siu bowl, clam chowder croquettes, Hokkaido scallops and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 29, 2026
Sausage Fest Hawaiʻi offers gourmet Glizzys
The food business — which can be found at events across Oʻahu — specializes in “Glizzys,” which is slang for hot dogs. These gourmet dogs feature toppings like bacon bits, kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon and more. Plus, the biz also now offers birria tacos.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 28, 2026
Where to find Japan-style shrimp crackers on Oʻahu
Owner Shingo Katsura recently opened Yamitsuki Gyotaku Senbei, which can be found at various markets around Oʻahu. The business — whose name means “addictive” in Japanese — specializes in crispy senbei, but plans to expand its menu to include other popular street foods.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 27, 2026
Budget Bites: K & K Kitchen’s breakfast plates
This grab-and-go spot offers hearty options ranging from $4.25 to $12.50.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 26, 2026
Arise Kona Bakery & Café continues to focus on community
The Kona-based bakery and café — known for its sourdough, sandwiches and European-style pastries — recently celebrated its third anniversary. According to business owners Irena and TJ Bogoslavets, the heart behind the café is to be a blessing to others.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 26, 2026
Where to eat on Valentine’s Day – part 2
From prix fixe menus and specials to limited-time desserts, we’ve got your Feb. 14 covered.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 23, 2026
Hawaiʻi restaurateur, chefs among James Beard semifinalists
There are nine semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards who hail from the Islands, including Neale Asato of Asato Family Shop, Peter Merriman of Merriman’s, and more.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 23, 2026
Little Sparrow showcases spaetzle in Kaimukī
The business, which started in 2021, can be found at farmers markets across Oʻahu and opened its brick-and-mortar in a Kaimukī alley last fall. Customers can enjoy spaetzle in half- or full-sized portions — along with exclusive flavors — at Little Sparrow’s shop on Waiʻalae Avenue.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 23, 2026
New takoyaki trailer opens in Kakaʻako
Coco Balls specializes in traditional, Osaka-style takoyaki. You can find the recently opened trailer by Up Roll Café Kakaʻako.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 22, 2026
Zippy's newest Las Vegas location opens Jan. 27
Zippy's at Summerlin is the restaurant's fourth location in Southern Nevada.
Stephanie SalmonsJanuary 22, 2026
New spot for lobster rolls in Honolulu
Mānoa-based FEAST by Jon Matsubara — popular for its signature lobster rolls — recently opened in Midtown Eats food hall at The Park on Keʻeaumoku. This location has several exclusive dishes, including prime rib, poke bowls and a bestselling loco moco.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 22, 2026
UBAE now has new soft serve fruit bowls
Fruit bowls include a soft serve flavor — including ube and pandan — drizzles and a variety of toppings.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 21, 2026
Poke Stand by Shokudo is open in Kakaʻako
The shop features reasonably priced poke with Japanese-inspired flavors, including mentai mayo, miso cheese, Hawaiian salt, cold ginger and more.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 21, 2026
Nomadic’s honey slushes are available in Kailua
The business — formerly named Wicked HI — still has a food truck in Haleʻiwa, but now customers can enjoy its signature sourdough pizzas and waffles, and popular honey slushes, at its new Windward Oʻahu location.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 20, 2026
Honolulu Bistro’s new grilled sandwich truck is now open
The Ala Moana café recently launched a gourmet sandwich truck, which can be found in Waikīkī. The business specializes in savory and sweet grilled sandwiches, and recently added new beverages to its menu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 19, 2026
Where to eat on Valentine’s Day 2026: part 1
From prix fixe menus to specialty desserts, check out these options for Feb. 14.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 16, 2026
The Kāhala Hotel & Resort has a new coffee shop
Kaffe Kāhala is open daily and offers self-serve Illy coffee, along with freshly baked pastries from Dean & Deluca Hawaiʻi.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 16, 2026
Budget Bites: Chez Kenzo Bar & Grill’s $9 happy hour
The sizzling omurice — fried rice topped with an omelet and demi-glaze sauce, served on a hot skillet — is one of the most popular dishes. Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7 p.m.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 15, 2026
Egghead Café is featuring $10 plates for a limited time
The popular brunch spot is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with $10 plates from Jan. 18 to 31. The discount features customer favorites like peanut butter French toast, Boom Boom chicken and porky bao.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 15, 2026
SinIceStir Shave Ice opens in Honolulu
This new spot features chef-curated combos — complete with savory flavors — and a rotating line-up of specialty shave ice desserts.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 14, 2026
Aloha Beer Co. celebrates nine-year anniversary
The business is celebrating nine years in Kakaʻako with an anniversary party, complete with $9 plates, surprise “golden ticket” giveaways, live music and the debut of its Red Zeppelin cans.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 13, 2026
New Chinese-Mongolian skewers spot in Kapahulu
Dahan Skewer opened recently in the former spot of Honu’s Kalbi & Sushi. The eatery is offering 10% off during its soft opening.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 13, 2026
The Wrecking Crew Pac is now available at Zippy’s
The limited-time menu item, inspired by Prime Video’s “The Wrecking Crew,” will be available at all Zippy’s locations in Hawaiʻi and Southern Nevada starting today until March 1.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 12, 2026
This ramen restaurant revamped its happy hour
Golden Pork Tonkotsu Ramen Bar updated its weekday happy hour menu to include discounts on both, ramen and tsukemen.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 12, 2026
Hanabi Cheesecake is the newest dessert from Uncle’s Ice Cream Sandwiches
These basque cheesecakes can be found in flavors like ube, guava and Cookie Butter. They can be ordered online for pick-up at various retailers across Oʻahu.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 09, 2026
Sip Café opens with coffee, matcha lattes and banh mi sandwiches
You can find everything from egg cream lattes and banana cream matcha lattes to pastrami banh mi sandwiches at the new shop in City Square Shopping Center.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 09, 2026
New Honolulu food hall is now open
Midtown Eats, the new food hall at The Park on Keʻeaumoku, is celebrating its grand opening from 10 a.m. to midnight on Jan. 17. The food hall is soft opening during limited hours from Jan. 9 to 16. Aloha State Daily got a tour of the new space.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 09, 2026
Dipped by Dee x La Tour Café’s special macaron set to launch
Customers can get the new Cookie Butter-dipped strawberry macarons at all La Tour Café locations starting this Saturday, Jan. 10.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 08, 2026
Asian snack shop 1-2 Buy Hawaiʻi finds new spot in Honolulu
The business’s Cooke Street store has relocated to Ala Moana Boulevard, in the former space of Valyou Hawaiʻi. It opens to the public on Jan. 8.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 08, 2026
Artizen by MW launches limited-time January prix fixe menu
The special three-course menu costs $48 per person and is available for dine-in or takeout until Jan. 31.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 07, 2026
This iconic soft cream dessert is back
Choco le‘a’s Japan-inspired soft cream treat is available once again in-store. The dessert was on a short hiatus during the holiday season, but customers can now get it on Saturdays in Mānoa.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 07, 2026
Shave ice is coming soon to Asatos Waikīkī
Reservations are now open for a new dessert omakase experience, which is debuting on Jan. 14 at the business’s new Waikīkī shop.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 07, 2026
Jamba Hawaiʻi opens second drive-thru location
Jamba Hawaiʻi’s new store in Waiau Shopping Center is the only location to feature both, a drive-thru and full in-store lobby. The location is celebrating its grand opening from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday, Jan. 10. The first 150 guests who come to the grand opening celebration will receive a limited-edition Hawaiʻi gift.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 07, 2026
The Capital Grille Hawaiʻi has a new happy hour
Feast on exclusive dishes — including Parmesan truffle fries, sliced dry-aged New York strip and filet sandwiches — and enjoy discounted cocktails during the new “Capital Hours.”
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 06, 2026
Rainbow Drive-In has new bentos
Known for its hearty plate lunches, Rainbow Drive-In’s Kapahulu location recently added garlic chicken to its menu. For now, it’s a Kapahulu exclusive, but will soon be available at the Drive-In’s Pearlridge Center and Kalihi locations.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 05, 2026
Popular New York City cocktail bar now open in Honolulu
ROKC — which stands for ramen, oyster, kitchen and cocktail — opened recently in Waikīkī. The eatery is known for its signature cocktails, izakaya-style bites and unique ramen.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 02, 2026
New Japanese curry spot in Honolulu
Kana Curry, which specializes in sweet-and-spicy Osaka-style curry, recently opened in Waikīkī.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJanuary 01, 2026
New Makanai café opens in Makiki
Makanai — which translates to “family meal” in Japanese — recently opened in the former space of Sure Shot Café in Makiki. The café offers everything from earl grey matcha lattes and cold brews topped with honey cream to yuzu egg sandos, cinnamon rolls and smoked ‘ahi bagels.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaDecember 31, 2025
Tonkatsu Kuro added new dishes to its menu
The new combo sets — which include perilla soba, spicy tsuyu soba and tenderloin and shrimp katsu — are inspired by Korean flavors. Customers can also now enjoy Suntory premium malts and Kirin Ichiban, which are poured using the eatery’s new Hoshizaki draft beer machine.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaDecember 31, 2025
Behind the scenes at Fresh Island Fish and Pier 38 Fish Market
Aloha State Daily was recently invited for a tour at Fresh Island Fish. We learned more about the business’s “boat-to-table” process, watched whole ‘ahis being broken down, and got tips for sashimi-cutting.
Kelli Shiroma BraiottaDecember 30, 2025