After more than four decades of bringing great shopping and dining to Honolulu, Ward Warehouse is bidding farewell and closing its doors on August 1. Originally built in 1975 with a projected lifespan of 15 years, this iconic restaurant and retail center will be demolished to make way for a luxury high-rise. But before it goes, let’s make sure we say goodbye and mahalo to our favorite businesses at Ward Warehouse’s “A Hui Hou” party on Sunday, July 30, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Nā Mea Hawaiʻi, Aupuni Place, and the Ward Amphitheatre are hosting a community potluck with live music, authors, artists, comedy, and D.I.Y. activities. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy one last gathering in this beloved space.
Here’s a guide to what’s happening with some of the businesses:
Novel-T World
Owners Darrell and Stephanie Ching are looking forward to a “semiretirement” after running Novel-T World for 34-and-a-half years. They plan to develop an online store and participate in pop-up events and craft fairs around the island. You can find them at New Wave Friday every second Friday of the month at South Shore Market in Ward Village, as well as seasonal and community craft fairs. While they won’t have a physical store anymore, they will stay connected with their customers through email, social media, and the upcoming online store.
Nā Mea Hawaiʻi
Nā Mea Hawaiʻi is reopening as a combined entity, bringing together Aupuni Place, Hello Makana, and Native Knowledge Center, in a new location at Ward Centre. The aim is to continue serving the community’s needs through exhibitions, public art projects, and contemporary art-related programming. They believe that shopping and dining are not just about transactions, but about creating a sense of community. They want to keep that community spirit alive at their new space.
Nohea Gallery
Nohea Gallery, started by mother-daughter duo Gail and Laurie Baron 27 years ago, is opening two new locations. The first one, in the Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort and Spa’s atrium level, will open in the first week of August. The second location, which is more centrally located, is still in the works and will be announced on their website and social media once it’s official. Nohea Gallery is dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Hawaiʻi and supporting local artists.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
Pasta lovers, don’t worry! The Old Spaghetti Factory will be reopening at Aloha Tower Marketplace in late fall or early winter. The new location is currently under construction, and they plan to maintain their signature design elements. The trolley car and other familiar pieces will still be there, ready to greet customers with a warm and nostalgic ambiance.
Kincaid’s
Kincaid’s, a classic American grill that has been serving Hawaiʻi since 1976, closed its doors on May 31. But fear not, they plan to merge their staff and menu with sister restaurant Ryan’s Grill in Ward Centre. So you can still enjoy their delicious dishes and warm hospitality at their new location.
These are just a few of the businesses at Ward Warehouse that are finding new homes in different parts of Honolulu. Some are moving to Ward Centre, others to Kakaʻako or Waikīkī. But wherever they go, they will bring their unique charm and continue serving the community.
As we bid farewell to Ward Warehouse, let’s cherish the memories we’ve made in this special place and embrace the new beginnings for these beloved merchants.
