TWO NEW DINING ADDITIONS JOIN PĀʻINA LĀNAI AT ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER IN HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI
(Honolulu, HI) — Waikīkī’s dining scene just got even bolder with the latest grand openings of Jalapeños 808 and Waikīkī Brisket, now open at the Royal Hawaiian Center’s Pāʻina Lānai Food Court. Joining a dynamic lineup of ten eateries, these two new concepts bring comfort-driven flavors to the heart of Waikīkī from authentic Mexican favorites rooted in family recipes to slow-smoked barbecue specialties.
Royal Hawaiian Center, located in the heart of Waikīkī along the iconic Kalākaua Avenue, is one of Hawai‘i’s most celebrated shopping destinations. Known for its mix of luxury brands, local artisans, and immersive experiences, it attracts both residents and visitors seeking style, quality, and a true sense of Hawaiian culture.
The food court welcomes the third Hawai‘i location for Jalapeños 808, with existing restaurants in Kailua and Liliha. Family-owned and operated, Jalapeños 808 began as a food truck in Waimānalo in 2020, where the owners first introduced recipes developed in their own kitchen and inspired by generations of home cooking. Celebrated for its authentic Mexican cuisine, the restaurant is known for importing dried chilis directly from Mexico to build the deep, layered flavors that define its dishes. Guests can enjoy hand-made tortillas, signature tacos, rich quesabirria served with savory consomé, hearty burritos, and loaded carne asada fries, all crafted with the same homemade approach that started it all. Combining traditional recipes with a welcoming, thoughtfully designed environment, Jalapeños 808 delivers a vibrant dining experience rooted in quality, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality.
“Our new Pāʻina Lānai restaurant is a special achievement for our family business," said Marissa and Adan Ornelas, owners of Jalapeños 808. "Our food is always prepared fresh every morning in our kitchen with spices and ingredients we order directly from Mexico.”
Pāʻina Lānai Food Court also marks the first Waikīkī Brisket location for TBB Holdings Inc., which operates 12 dining concepts statewide, including Teddy’s Bigger Burgers, Tex 808, and Tio’s. The menu highlights smoked brisket sandwiches and melts, brisket mac bowls, a Hawaii-style brisket loco moco, and classic milkshakes, offering bold flavors and generous portions.
“We’ve combined traditional Texas Style Low-n-Slow BBQ techniques with local flavors to create something truly unique for both residents and visitors, and we couldn't be happier to grow our employee-owned TBB Holdings, Inc restaurant group in such an iconic destination,” said Rich Stula, President of TBB Holdings, Inc.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jalapeños 808 and Waikīkī Brisket to Pāʻina Lānai Food Court," said Marleen Akau, VP and General Manager of Royal Hawaiian Center. "Their arrival enhances our vibrant dining scene and offers guests exciting new flavors and experiences right here in the heart of Waikīkī.”
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For additional information head to jalapenos808.com
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For additional information head to www.waikikibrisket.com
ABOUT JALAPEÑOS 808
Jalapeños 808 brings bold, authentic Mexican flavors to Hawai’i with fresh, family-inspired recipes. From hand-made tortillas and signature tacos to rich quesabirria, hearty burritos, and loaded carne asada fries, every dish delivers vibrant flavor.
ABOUT WAIKĪKĪ BRISKET
Waikīkī Brisket is a brand-new fast-casual BBQ concept created just for Waikiki. Located in the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, it’s easy to find and perfect for a quick, satisfying bite. Inspired by TEX 808, the menu is full of slow-smoked meats and flavor, but designed to be approachable and easy to eat on the go.
ABOUT THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER
Royal Hawaiian Center is the premier shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural destination in Waikīkī, comprising over 90 shops and restaurants over three city-blocks of world-renowned Kalākaua Avenue. The Center stands proudly upon historic land known as Helumoa, once home to Hawaiian royalty.
OWNERSHIP: Royal Hawaiian Center is owned by RHC Property Holdings LLC and managed by The Festival Companies.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sam “Helene” Shenkus
Royal Hawaiian Center
(808) 931-3110