HONOLULU (KHON2) — The popular burger chain Shake Shack announced it’s coming to Oahu in a couple of years. Restaurant industry leaders say the franchise coming to Hawaii could be good news for everyone.
When it comes to burgers, Hawaii has a little something for everyone.
“It’s inspired by Elvis Presley, so it’s peanut butter on a bun, guava jelly, apple banana, burger, bacon, and that’s our Elvis burger,” said Kia Agustin, Honolulu Burger Company co-owner.
“We also have our Kaneohe burger, our Kailua, our Kilauea fire,” said Mason Kuraoka, Teddy’s Bigger Burgers Assistant Manager.
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers has been in Hawaii since 1998. Honolulu Burger Company since 2010. Both will have to make way for the new kid in town, Shake Shack announced it’s coming to Oahu with plans to open a store in 2027. Location still to be determined by the local operator of the franchise.
“I mean it’s tough,” said Agustin. “It’s definitely like scary. We don’t know what to expect.”
“You’re seeing all these places you grew up eating closing down, you know, so it’s good to support the local businesses,” said customer Alan Barker.
While some restaurants are concerned that another franchise is coming to the islands, restaurant industry leaders feel the opposite. The saying goes that the rising tide lifts all boats. So they say what’s good for one is good for all.
Hawaii Restaurant Association President and CEO Sheryl Matsuoka says local business suppliers should see a boost. And of course, so will consumers.
“And for the customers, it’s another option for them,” said Matsuoka. “So they all celebrate it too, whether you’re a local or a visitor, right, you look at all your options of where you are in the district and they do have a great reputation.”
“They’re gonna do their homework and they’ve done their homework and they know they wanna be here in Hawaii,” said Matsuoka about Shake Shack.
“I think this burger is better than Shake Shack,” said Barker. “This burger is unreal.”
Restaurants say that’s the key – keep putting out quality products and taking care of your customers.
“We always ask how you’re doing, say ‘hi, welcome in,’ we wanna make sure we have a smile on our face and presentable,” said Kuraoka. “Can’t have a place a mess obviously, no one wants to eat in grease and grossness, and just really trying our best to make sure they get the best experience when they come here.”
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“That’s truly, I feel like, also what helps a business last long – is the relationships you make,” said Agustin. “And I’m so thankful. I’m gonna cry. I am truly so thankful, and I’ve met a lot of great people along the way.”