Episode 15: Origin Story

From waiting tables in Waikīkī to serving at Tiki Tops restaurant and eventually launching her own lunchwagon, this episode traces the early days of Aunty Piilani’s food service career. With the help of Honey and Pappy Ho — and their son Don Ho, who was just on the rise — she found her footing at the legendary Honey’s Tavern in Kaneohe. She shares stories of first-day disasters (sorry, Aunty Ginny!) and a sweet rendition of the “Taro Patch Song” and closes with advice for would-be restauranteurs from the lessons she learned.