The Hawaii Kai - NYC urban tropical Tiki paradise, gone but not forgotten!

[johngadsden67]

I just googled this place to let my daughter know exactly where to go when she's in NY. I'm shocked to find out it's no longer there. This was one of my favorite spot when I lived in NY. Why, WHY, Why??

[toekneesvideo]

I was here for my brother and his girlfriend 's engagement dinner. I was only twelve years old at the time. The only thing that really sticks out in my memory of this place was the little doorman. Do you remember him? Thanks for the video, it really bought back some good memories of this place.

[jaslinc1]

@Domenic Dee I wasn't clear. Some of the guy's dates looked sad. Maybe that they were leaving 'the Kai';) or maybe getting a look at their dates in the 2 o'clock glare of T.Sq. (rap on)?

[jaslinc1]

One Summer I was driving a cab in Manhattan and I used to drive by every chance I had around Prom time, and through the summer, just to see the couples (in Mr.B tuxes and the girls in creamy formals, all lei'd and mai tai'd) coming out on to Times Square smiling.

When "diversity" is preached, they should remember there needs to be room for funny even sad places like Hawaii Kai in this world. Not just franchise corporate copies of some Plan.

[DomenicDee]

@jaslinc1 Well Put, however I wouldn't call it "sad", it was a lot of trashy fun though. I was there like 3 times back in the early 80's, modern Times Square is definitely missing alot these days without a place like this around!

[valentineshoney]

OMG...I've been here =D

It was a family place too. My mom, sister, brother and I frequently visited in the early 70's.

You got leid as soon as you entered the restaurant. Hehehe

Wonderful memories...My brother still has a keepsake picture of us at Hawaii Kai.

[cathycva]

I loved your video. What wonderful memories. Thank you for making it.  Now I am going to look for the one on Howard Johnson's.

[chalomirof63]

Very sweet, funny, and yes, sad - part of my youth. Well done 'thyrdeye'!

[NYOLSKOOL]

i remember seeing that place but never been in there. is that where they filmed end scene in that movie `Night Shift`?? my spot was 2 or 3 blocks south `Mardi Gras` on south side of bwy betwwen 47 and 46 st.