Food & Dining

Hawaii coffee farmers battle shifting weather patterns, new pests, and rising temperatures that threaten the state’s iconic agricultural industry. Growers are adapting with innovative techniques and community support to preserve this $50 million sector.

Rainbow Drive-In celebrates 65 years on Kapahulu Avenue by offering original 1961 menu prices all week. The iconic plate lunch spot continues serving generations of locals with unchanged recipes and community spirit.

Leonard’s Bakery introduces three new summer malasada flavors — Lilikoi Passion, Coconut Haupia Cream, and Guava Cheesecake — using local ingredients and traditional techniques. The seasonal offerings launch June 1 at the iconic Kapahulu bakery.

Ward Village’s new food hall brings together 15 local chefs in a 12,000-square-foot space, offering everything from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to modern fusion dishes. The Ward Kitchen Collective opens as Honolulu’s largest gathering of local culinary talent under one roof.

Tanaka Ramen is bringing its popular tonkotsu ramen from Kaimuki to Pearl City this spring. The beloved noodle house will open its second location at Pearl Highlands Center in April.

James Beard-nominated Chef Marcus Tanaka opens Hale Moana in Chinatown, bringing Pacific Rim cuisine that blends his Japanese-Hawaiian heritage with locally sourced ingredients. The 60-seat restaurant occupies the former Jade Dynasty space on Maunakea Street.

Honolulu City Council unanimously approved streamlined food truck regulations that cut permit fees from $2,500 to $500 annually and establish 15 designated vending zones. The new system eliminates bureaucratic hurdles that drove away mobile vendors over the past five years.

Waialua farmers are transforming Honolulu’s dining scene through direct restaurant partnerships, supplying everything from heritage vegetables to grass-fed beef. The collaboration eliminates distributors and allows chefs to build seasonal menus around North Shore harvests.

Award-winning pastry chef Keoni Dubois opens Plumeria & Patisserie on Monsarrat Avenue, bringing Hawaiian-French fusion pastries to Diamond Head. The new bakery features haupia croissants and lilikoi tarts made with authentic French techniques.