HONOLULU (KHON2) — Get ready, Kapolei! SONIC Drive-In is making its Oʻahu debut. Known for its retro vibes, roller-skating carhops and thousands of drink combos, the fast-food chain has officially broken ground on its first Oʻahu location.
Set to open in early 2026, SONIC Kapolei will bring its curbside service, signature menu and community-focused mission to the corner of Fort Barrette Road and Kapolei Parkway.
Here’s what KHON2.com was able to find out about the restaurant chain.
1. Expect a nostalgic drive-in experience
This isn’t your typical drive-thru. At SONIC, you park, order from your car and wait while a carhop, often on roller skates, brings your food right to you. It’s a style of service that feels like a throwback, but it’s designed for today’s busy lives. Think burgers, tots and slushes without ever leaving your seat.
2. The menu goes beyond burgers and shakes
SONIC is famous for its Cherry Limeade, Cajun fries and footlong chili cheese coneys, but the menu doesn’t stop there. You’ll find crispy chicken sandwiches, breakfast burritos and more than 1.5 million drink combinations. And in Hawaiʻi, you’ll also get the exclusive “Only in Hawaiʻi” Teri Burger; it’s a local-style twist you won’t find anywhere else.
3. Construction started with a blessing
On April 25, a local kahuna (Hawaiian priest) led a traditional blessing on the site to honor the land and all those working to build SONIC Kapolei.
“It’s our kuleana to respect the ʻāina and the community we’re joining,” said Takeo Prather, head of development for SONIC Hawaiʻi.
4. It will bring more than 100 jobs to West Oʻahu
SONIC Kapolei is expected to create more than 100 new jobs that will include cooks, carhops and managers. That’s a big boost for the area and a chance for local residents to join a national brand with a strong local focus.
5. It’s about food, and it’s about community
Through its Limeades for Learning® program, SONIC donates a portion of every Drink, Slush, Blast and Shake sold to help local schools. Since 2009, the brand has given over $30 million to public education. That mission will continue on Oʻahu.
6. The countdown has begun
With opening day set for early 2026, SONIC fans have some time to prepare and build up an appetite.
You can click here to learn more about SONIC.
Until then, you might want to start thinking about your perfect drink combo. Or better yet, two.