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HONOLULU (KHON2) Hidden in the bustling city of Honolulu, the Food Trucks at Kewalo Basin Harbor have emerged as a beloved hangout for locals. This spot offers an appealing mix of budget-friendly dining, live entertainment, and even fireworks, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
The environment caters to everyone, from families and couples to groups of friends, offering a delightful experience without breaking the bank.
Thomas, a local resident, stumbled upon this vibrant locale with his friends, lured initially by the promise of pizza. However, he was pleasantly surprised by the array of experiences beyond just food.
“We originally came for this pizza place [Zucchi’s] that a friend recommended,” Thomas shared. “Even though we live here, we never thought to visit until we actually saw what it had to offer.”
Angel, accompanying Thomas on his first visit, admitted to frequently driving by the food truck row at Kewalo’s without realizing its charm until now.
“We first came for this pizza place [Zucchi’s] my friend told me about,” he explained. “We live here, and we know… but we never bothered to come here until we experienced this real thing.”
Angel, who was visiting for the first time with Thomas, drove past food truck row at Kewalo’s many times without realizing what was there.
“We never knew it was in here,” she said. She tried the pizza and loved it. “The crust was extremely tender. The toppings were incredibly fresh. It’s the best pizza in Honolulu.”
For couples like Kimo and Sophie, the food truck row offers more than just food. Kimo discovered it on a date and was impressed by the offerings.
“I just pulled in one day, and when she moved over here from Big Island, it got cuter and cuter with all the plants and fairy lights,” he said. “This is the best Thai [Elephant Shack] on Oahu.”
Sophie added that the atmosphere is inviting despite rising prices. “It feels like a good atmosphere,” she said. “I think this is a great place for dates or just hanging out with friends.”
Jason has been visiting food truck row for years, and what keeps him coming back is more than the food. The lively energy and free dance lessons give the spot a unique charm.
“I thought I knew cha cha, but she taught me so many different steps,” he said, referring to the free instruction offered on Fridays. Jessica, the dance instructor behind these sessions.
For Jessica, food truck row is more than a stage for dance. It is a place to bring people together. For her, Honolulu has been a welcoming home that makes her want to give back as much as possible to the people of the city.
“I’ve been running events for the community. People find a place to belong. They’ve found friends, family, even partners,” she said. “This is just to share my culture and what a wonderful venue it is. Kids come, they play instruments, we get to watch the fireworks. Food is amazing and everybody here is super friendly.”
Families also find food truck row welcoming. Alison, a local mom, enjoys bringing her kids.
“We really liked it because of the open space. Parents and toddlers need open space. And the food, music, and entertainment are fantastic,” she said. Emily, who works nearby, has discovered the spot recently. “It’s cool this week. My kid is at the age now where bedtime is later, so we can come and enjoy it,” she said.
The food trucks that have currently set up shop in food truck row include: Island Ice Cream Rolls, Kewalo’s, Miguel’s Cocina, Zucchi’s Pizza and Elephant Shack Tai Food.
Visitors rave about the food variety. From pizza to Thai, the choices are extensive. Kimo shared his favorite: “Thai with chicken, vegetables, peanuts. We usually get medium, but tonight we went mild.”
With free dancing, free fireworks and a friendly vibe, food truck row has become more than a food destination. It is a gathering place for families, couples and anyone who wants to enjoy a lively evening in Honolulu.