The Kahala Hotel & Resort today announced a new chapter in its culinary story with the upcoming opening of Alan Wong’s in early 2026. The resort’s signature fine dining restaurant, Hoku’s, will conclude service in the first quarter of 2026 to prepare for the new restaurant. The partnership unites two of Hawaiʻi’s most acclaimed forces in hospitality and dining, ushering in a new era of culinary excellence for the iconic oceanfront resort.
The opening of Alan Wong’s marks the return of one of Hawai‘i’s most celebrated chefs. Chef Alan Wong, a founding figure of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine, will serve as a consultant to guide the restaurant’s opening and menu development. The new concept will showcase a curated selection of signature dishes from his famed King Street restaurant, with ingredients sourced locally.
“What I look forward to most is welcoming back guests who have made cherished memories at our King Street restaurant and inspiring new moments of connection and celebration in this new era at The Kahala,” said Chef Alan Wong. “It’s an honor—and in many ways, a full circle moment—to call The Kahala our new home.”
The story of Alan Wong’s is one of connection and continuity. Wong previously collaborated with Chef Oliver Altherr, who opened Hoku’s in 1995; Altherr wife, Karin, served as Wong’s sous chef at Alan Wong’s on King Street; This shared lineage reflects the close-knit spirit of Hawai‘i’s culinary community and The Kahala’s long-standing commitment to excellence and collaboration.
Mark Shishido, beverage director at Alan Wong’s King Street location and general manager of the Pineapple Room by Alan Wong, joins as general manager of the new restaurant. A Hawaiʻi
Restaurant Association Hall of Fame inductee, Shishido will lead the transition from Hoku’s to Alan Wong’s after previously playing a key role in launching all of Wong’s expansion projects.
Chef Joe Almoguera, currently executive sous chef for the resort, will be promoted to executive chef of the resort and work alongside Chef Wong to bring the vision to life.
“For more than six decades, The Kahala has been defined by timeless luxury, gracious service, unforgettable experiences and a legacy of aloha,” said Joe Ibarra, general manager of The Kahala Hotel & Resort and vice president of Resorttrust Hawai‘i. “This transition is not an ending—it’s an evolution. After nearly 30 years of exceptional culinary experiences at Hoku’s, welcoming Alan Wong’s represents both a return to our roots and a bold step forward in celebrating Hawai‘i’s extraordinary culinary heritage.”
Since its opening nearly three decades ago, when it replaced the Maile Room, Hoku’s has been a cornerstone of Hawai‘i’s fine dining landscape, known for its refined approach to regional flavors and exceptional service.
The Kahala is currently recruiting for a chef de cuisine, sous chef and pastry chef for the new restaurant. To learn more about the positions and to apply, please visit www.kahalaresort.com/careers.
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