If you’re on the lookout for fresh dining experiences in Hawai‘i, here’s something to get excited about: Earls Kitchen + Bar, a Canadian-born restaurant chain, is launching its first-ever Hawaiʻi location in the heart of Waikīkī this October.

Here’s what to know and why it matters:

A Bit of Background

• Earls Kitchen + Bar was founded in 1982 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

• Today, it operates over 70 locations across North America, and its Waikīkī branch will be its 11th in the U.S.

• The new restaurant—spanning nearly 13,000 square feet—will occupy the site where the Waikīkī 3 Theater once stood along Kalākaua Avenue.

• With seating for more than 320 guests, it’s designed to be a destination, not just a casual stop.

What to Expect on the Menu & Vibe

• Earls aims to bring an “upscale casual” dining concept with a modern, globally inspired American menu.

• Expect signature items like USDA prime steaks, fresh seafood, sticky Korean ribs, and spicy Calabrian pasta.

• The bar will also feature favorites like margaritas, martinis, and a Mai Tai made with local Kuleana Nanea rum.

• Operation hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until “late,” and weekends will open an hour earlier with brunch service from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Happy hour will run twice daily: 2–5 p.m. and 10 p.m. until close.

Braden Matthews, the Director of Operations for Hawaiʻi, remarked that Hawaiʻi’s high density and tourist presence, especially in Waikīkī, makes it a compelling market. He added that the brand’s relaxed yet energetic style complements the island vibe.

Hiring & Community Engagement

• As of mid-August, Earls is aiming to hire around 360 employees for its Hawaiʻi location—spanning kitchen staff, servers, bartenders, and management roles.

• Their first hiring fair is scheduled for August 15 at Prince Waikīkī Hotel. Interested candidates can register in advance via Earls’ site or simply walk in.

• With 20 managers already involved in this project, the final weeks before opening will prioritize training, team-building, and getting the operations ready for launch.

Why This Move Is Interesting

1. Local impact & new options for diners

With its upscale casual concept, Earls adds fresh variety to Waikīkī’s dining scene—not replacing local favorites, but complementing them.

2. Economic & employment boost

Bringing in 360 job opportunities is a notable boon for local employment, especially in hospitality and service sectors.

3. Brand expansion & test of “island fit”

This is Earls’ first venture into Hawaiʻi. If successful, it could validate the brand’s adaptability in tourist-driven island markets.

Mark your calendars: October 8 is the big opening day. We’ll keep an eye on developments, menus, and what the local community says once doors open.

Source: “Canadian restaurant chain set to open its first Hawai‘i location,” Aloha State Daily, August 13, 2025.

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