Uncovering Waikīkī’s Hidden Stories and Celebrating Native Hawaiian Cuisine

Uncovering Waikīkī’s Hidden Stories and Celebrating Native Hawaiian Cuisine

As we continue to honor Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, greenteaHAWAII invites you to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Native Hawaiian culture. Today, we spotlight the enlightening podcast Hidden Waikīkī and introduce you to some cherished Native Hawaiian-owned restaurants on Oʻahu.


🎧 Discover the Untold Histories with Hidden Waikīkī

Waikīkī, often synonymous with sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife, holds stories that predate its transformation into a tourist haven. In the podcast episode Hidden Waikīkī, host Bryan Murphy engages with Kamaka Pili, a Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, to shed light on the area's sacred past. 

Listeners will learn about Waikīkī's origins as a thriving wetland, its significance as a royal residence, and the profound changes it underwent over time. Kamaka shares personal insights, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the land's history to truly appreciate its present. 

Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this podcast offers a deeper connection to Waikīkī's roots and encourages mindful exploration.


Savor Authentic Flavors at Native Hawaiian-Owned Eateries

Supporting Native Hawaiian-owned businesses is a meaningful way to engage with the culture and contribute to the local community. Here are some esteemed establishments on Oʻahu where you can experience genuine Hawaiian hospitality and cuisine:

1. Helena’s Hawaiian Food - info

  • Location: 1240 N. School St., Honolulu

  • Cuisine: Traditional Hawaiian

  • Signature Dish: Kalua pig and pipikaula short ribs

  • About: Established in 1946, Helena’s has been serving authentic Hawaiian dishes for generations. Their commitment to preserving traditional recipes has earned them a James Beard Foundation Award. 

2. Highway Inn - info

  • Locations: Waipahu and Kakaʻako

  • Cuisine: Hawaiian comfort food

  • Signature Dish: Lau lau and poi combo

  • About: Since 1947, Highway Inn has been a staple for locals and visitors alike, offering hearty Hawaiian meals that evoke the warmth of home-cooked food. 

3. Haili’s Hawaiian Foods - info

  • Location: 760 Palani Ave., Honolulu

  • Cuisine: Traditional Hawaiian

  • Signature Dish: Lomi salmon and chicken long rice

  • About: A family-run establishment, Haili’s has been delighting patrons with classic Hawaiian dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and time-honored cooking methods.

4. Waiāhole Poi Factory - info

  • Location: 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe

  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

  • Signature Dish: Squid luau and hand-pounded poi

  • About: Combining a restaurant and art gallery, Waiāhole Poi Factory offers a cultural experience, serving traditional foods alongside local artwork. 


Embracing the Spirit of Aloha

At greenteaHAWAII, based on the island of Oʻahu, we are deeply inspired by the values and traditions of Native Hawaiian culture. Our mission to promote health and well-being is rooted in the spirit of aloha and gratitude that permeates these islands.

This AANHPI Heritage Month, we encourage you to explore the deeper narratives of Hawaiʻi, support Native Hawaiian-owned businesses, and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors and stories that make this place unique.

By engaging with resources like the Hidden Waikīkī podcast and dining at local establishments, you not only enrich your understanding but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of Native Hawaiian culture.

Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future where cultural appreciation and community support go hand in hand.


Note: While greenteaHAWAII is not Native Hawaiian-owned, we are committed to honoring and uplifting the culture and people of Hawaiʻi through our actions and initiatives.

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