Hawaii’s culinary scene is at a tipping point. 15 Hawaii restaurants recently closed, while others are thriving against all odds.
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16 thoughts on “Fork In The Road: Hawaii Restaurants Split Between Closures, Successes”
Hawaii’s culinary scene is at a tipping point. 15 Hawaii restaurants recently closed, while others are thriving against all odds.
I was born and raised in Oahu in the ’50s and ’60 I left in the ’80s and have only been back when my parents passed away. the cost of living was too high then and the traffic problems and even worse now. I used to drive from Waianae to Kahala for work in the early am, and it took me half an hour. The return home took over two and a half hours. everything is much too expensive, gas, food, housing, restaurant meals. I truly love the aina, but can’t afford to live there.
Too many restaurants, many come and go. Dined at some of the best on Oahu over the years. Sorry they just don’t seem to be as good today as they were two decades ago… irrespective of the high prices. Luckily I can cook (and eat) for myself and family. Prices are ridiculous to eat out, and the service tanks at many places. Aloha also means good bye (and not good buy).
Aloha BOH Bro’s
I think many are overlooking the food truck explosion on the islands as a main reason why traditional brick & mortar restaurants are closing.
Food trucks have a much lower operating cost. Many local chefs have left restaurants to open a food truck business, plus they poach the best staff to help run the truck causing staffing shortages for restaurants.
Blame also must be placed on tourist who are flocking to food trucks to spend their vacation dollars. They then post online wondering why their old favorite local owned restaurant went out of business.
Jeez really, but anything to save a buck on your Hawaiian Vacation.
Later.
What I don’t like about food trucks are the “to go” boxes, plastic forks & other packaging and frankly, some are not cheaper than some small sit-down restaurants, although I have to admit that I usually go for “Happy Hour” and listen to my favorite musician at the same time! Food trucks will never be my 1st choice, but I am willing to try some out.