Remember that first date at Like Like Drive Inn? The one where you nervously ordered the Loco Moco?
Like Like Drive Inn wasn’t just a restaurant. It was a Honolulu landmark a family legacy spanning generations. Established in 1953 by James and Alice Nako it offered car-hop service a charming feature of the era. They served classic American diner fare and those irresistible soda fountain desserts.
For sixty-seven years the Nako family welcomed customers. They became more than just diners. They were part of the Like Like family. Employees often worked for decades creating bonds that lasted a lifetime. The restaurant became a place of historical interest officially designated by the State of Hawaii itself.
The closure in 2020 broke many hearts. Loyal customers shared memories online. Grandmothers remembered bringing their grandchildren. First dates and Sunday brunches were cherished traditions. The smell of buttery hotcakes and the taste of their famous Lemon Chiffon Pie became legendary. One New Yorker even said it felt like losing a family member.
The story of Like Like Drive Inn isn’t just about food. It’s about community family and the enduring power of memory. Though the doors are closed the legacy of Like Like Drive Inn continues to live on in the hearts of those who experienced its charm its warm hospitality and its incredible food.