On August 29, Pop Culture Artisan Pops will join some of Hawaiʻi’s most exciting culinary talent for The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens 2026, an evening celebrating the restaurants, chefs, makers, and ideas shaping the next chapter of Hawaiʻi’s food culture.
Hawaiʻi’s food story has always been one of evolution. Shaped by agriculture, Native Hawaiian culture, generations of family traditions, global influences, and an entrepreneurial spirit, the islands continue to produce a culinary landscape unlike anywhere else.
On Saturday, August 29, many of those voices will come together in Waikīkī for The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens 2026: The Next Chapter at the Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa. Pop Culture Artisan Pops is proud to be among them.
A New Generation of Hawaiʻi Food Businesses
Some of the most interesting developments in Hawaiʻi food today are happening beyond the traditional boundaries of the restaurant.
Independent makers and emerging food brands are approaching familiar ingredients and formats with greater attention to sourcing, craftsmanship, presentation, and storytelling. At the same time, consumers increasingly want to know where products come from, who makes them, and how they connect to the communities in which they are sold.
That intersection has always been central to Pop Culture.
Founded on Oʻahu and produced in Waimānalo, Pop Culture approaches the frozen pop as a culinary product rather than simply a nostalgic treat. Our philosophy begins with quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor development, while embracing the idea that a locally made product can communicate something meaningful about where it comes from.
That philosophy has helped Pop Culture grow from local markets into retail locations, visitor destinations, collaborations, and events across Oʻahu.
The theme of this year’s event, The Next Chapter, feels especially appropriate.
Hawaiʻi’s culinary identity continues to expand beyond restaurants into farmers markets, specialty retail, hotels, visitor attractions, cafés, and independent food companies creating products with a distinct sense of place.
Pop Culture was founded on the belief that something as familiar as a frozen pop could be elevated through better ingredients, thoughtful craftsmanship, unexpected flavor combinations, and a genuine connection to Hawaiʻi.
Joining the chefs, restaurants, makers, and hospitality professionals at The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens is an opportunity to continue that story—and to celebrate the people and businesses defining what Hawaiʻi food can become next.
Join Us in Waikīkī
The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens 2026 takes place Saturday, August 29, at the Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa.
For passionate diners, chefs, retailers, hospitality professionals, and anyone interested in where Hawaiʻi food is going next, the evening offers a chance to experience an exciting cross-section of the islands’ culinary community in one place.
We’re proud to be part of it, and we hope you’ll join us.
Purchase tickets to The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens 2026
