855-Aloha
A Neighborhood Eatery Celebrating Hawai‘i’s Cultural Mash-Up
Iconic local flavors with vibe on speed dial
Iconic local flavors with vibe on speed dial
855-ALOHA is a buzzy neighborhood spot calling back to the old school, where local food meets a unique-to-Hawai‘i mashup of Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and European influences — a reflection of the islands’ rich cultural melting pot. Throwback dishes made famous by nostalgic eateries sit alongside funky cocktails and analog-style conversation, creating a dining experience that’s both retro and refreshingly alive.
Opened June 1, 2024
415 Nāhua Street, Honolulu, HI 96815
Designed by IndiDesign
THE BACKSTORY
855-Aloha represents the full conversion of the former Aqua Waikīkī Pearl Hotel into a completely new neighborhood lifestyle brand. What was once a patchwork of small ground-floor storefronts has been reimagined into a signature restaurant, bar, full kitchen, and lobby—repositioning the property as a gateway to a new kind of Waikīkī experience.
THE CHALLENGE
The building had suffered years of decline, particularly following the impacts of 2020, and was located just off one of Waikīkī’s main thoroughfares—limiting organic foot traffic. The space also carried a dated and unsavory reputation, requiring a total reintroduction to both locals and travelers.
OUR THEORY
In a destination known for its eclectic and competitive dining scene, success required creating something both familiar and delightfully unexpected. By celebrating the Japanese and Hawaiian flavors that are deeply woven into island dining—while presenting them in an energetic, youthful, and fun environment—we believed 855-Aloha could become a truly local-feeling favorite.
THE DESIGN
The design blends history, nostalgia, and a playful sense of place. Corner nooks create intimate gathering spaces for friends, while the garden room feels like an oasis—lush with overhead greenery, anchored by an ocean-inspired mural. Local artist Solario pays homage to Hawai‘i’s iconic blue phone booths, while Joe Rovegno’s photography highlights the remote, quirky, and distinctive phone booths that dot the islands. Together, the space becomes both inviting and unmistakably rooted in Hawai‘i’s visual culture.
THE MENU
855-Aloha embraces the multicultural spirit that defines Hawai‘i’s food identity. The menu brings together izakaya-style plates, nostalgic throwback dishes, and influences from Chinese, Korean, and European traditions—reflecting the islands’ rich cultural melting pot. The result is an eatery that feels convivial, craveable, and true to the way Hawai‘i actually eats.
The Results
The restaurant has quickly become a fun, eclectic, and approachable gathering spot with a beverage program anchored in creative riffs on classic cocktails. The energy mirrors the surrounding neighborhood—spirited, laid-back, and endlessly welcoming—making 855-Aloha a lively destination for both travelers discovering Waikīkī and locals seeking a new go-to hangout.