Lanakila Pacific Cafe is now open for business, bringing hot, made-to-order meals to Downtown Honolulu and new opportunities for the Lanakila Kitchen team. While the Bachelot kitchen continues large-scale meal production and delivery, the cafe focuses on hot breakfast foods, plate lunches, burgers, and grab-and-go items for federal employees, jurors, and downtown visitors.
“It’s a very different operation,” said Reid Yasunaga, Food Services Director at Lanakila Kitchen. “Here, we can slow down enough to train people in real short-order cooking and customer service.”
Lanakila Pacific Cafe serves about 500 people each day and provides added support for staff learning skills such as running a register, balancing the bank, food prep, and direct customer interaction. One team member, Skye, starts each morning setting up the dining room for service. With help from Reid and the kitchen managers, Skye practices chopping vegetables, forming burger patties, and confidently giving change at the register.
“It’s quieter here,” Skye shared. “I like the people I work with, and I want to learn how to cook the meals someday.”
Customers have noticed the food and the mission. Nichole Sanchez, who works in the building, visits often. She appreciates the convenience and the purpose behind every meal. “It’s comforting to know I’m supporting a good cause,” she said. “The food is great, and the service is friendly every time.”
As Lanakila Pacific Cafe continues to grow, the space will serve as a training hub where employees gain confidence, strengthen skills, and work toward long-term employment goals.
“We hope the community will stop by, enjoy a meal, and see the good work happening here,” Reid said. “Every visit helps our staff learn new skills and move toward greater independence.”