Recent News
The most important news and updates from HRA and our trusted partners.
November 2022 Vice Chairman’s Message
For all restaurants, it has been a rocky nearly three years of sailing in the dark COVID ocean. Fortunately, we are close to getting out of it. This pandemic has brought us separation, grief, and financial despair. But Hawaii is strong, we see examples of courage,...
Honolulu Outdoor Dining Program
In a move to support our local restaurants as we continue down the long road to economic recovery, the City and County of Honolulu has put the City's previously temporary sidewalk dining program into law in Ord. 22-19 (Bill 27 (2022), CD2), which is the City's outdoor...
September 2022 Executive Director’s Message
I would like to take this moment to share with you, our valued members, all the activities the Hawaii Restaurant Association has been working on for October 2022. To assist our member’s businesses in staffing up for the holidays, HRA has organized a FREE Hiring Event...
August 2022 Chairman’s Message
Aloha all, The Hawaii Restaurant Association’s mission is “to provide exceptional value through membership benefits, industry advocacy, community involvement, educational resources and networking opportunities.” I’d like to thank our Executive Committee for their...
July 2022 Chairman’s Message
Aloha all While 2022 has seen the sunsetting of Covid mandates and guidelines, it has also brought new challenges for the Hawaii restaurant industry. Hawaii has seen a 7-10% increase in labor and a 17-20% increase in food costs just since January. Despite our best...
From Grindz to Grinds – Y. Hata Helps Local Restaurants Flourish
Whether your restaurant serves up local grindz with two scoops rice or the finest Kona coffee grinds, Y. Hata & Co. is the partner for you. Founded in 1913 in Hilo, Hawaii, Y. Hata is the largest locally owned foodservice distributor in the State and within the...
BBB’s Best Practices for Exemplary Consumers: Why They’re Crucial for Small Businesses
BBB’s Best Practices for Exemplary Consumers: Why They’re Crucial for Small Businesses A lot of pressure is placed on businesses to go above and beyond for their customers. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic now coupled with ongoing supply chain issues, labor shortages,...
PRINTED MENUS ARE SO 2012
WHAT’S THE SOUP OF THE DAY? Today it’s Hawaiian Oxtale, but tomorrow it’ll be Cream of Sadness if your marketing and print materials aren’t up to snuff. When it comes to staying on top in the restaurant game, keeping a vivacious, lively set of menu items is tantamount...
May 2022 Executive Director’s Message
Hawaii Restaurant Association’s Town Halls are a fantastic opportunity to speak with and learn more about our candidates. This month our Town Halls featured candidates for Governor and next is the opportunity to hear directly from the Lieutenant Governor Candidates....