🌮 From LA to Kaka'ako: How Thyda’s Tacos Brought Authentic Flavor & Local Spirit to Hawai‘i
When you think about the best meals you’ve ever had, they’re often more than just good food — they’re tied to people, places, and a feeling of connection. That’s exactly the kind of story behind Thyda’s Tacos, a beloved taco stand tucked away in the heart of Waikiki. I sat down with Thyda herself to hear how she turned a simple craving for California-style tacos into a thriving small business — one that’s become a staple for both locals and tourists alike.
Starting with a Craving and a Dream
Thyda’s journey began with a move from California to O‘ahu, alongside her then-boyfriend (now husband). “He wanted to start a food business — because everybody has to eat,” she laughed. “But he didn’t cook, so I said, ‘Okay, I’ll teach you how to make tacos.’”
Growing up in Fresno and spending years in LA, Thyda was surrounded by authentic Mexican food. After relocating to Hawai‘i, she noticed a gap — there were fusion taco concepts around, but no straightforward, no-nonsense tacos like the ones back home. That’s when the idea for Thyda’s Tacos was born: a little piece of Cali flavor, served up with a whole lot of island heart.
Overcoming “No” — Finding a Place in Kaka'ako
As any small business owner on O‘ahu knows, one of the hardest parts isn’t making the product — it’s finding a place to sell it. For Thyda and her husband, getting their food truck on the road meant running into a lot of closed doors.
“We started on the North Shore, and nobody wanted to let us park. The rent was insane,” she explained. “We almost gave up. We brought the truck down to Hawaii Kai, and I told my husband, ‘Let’s just forget it.’”
But the islands have a way of connecting people when they need it most. A neighbor happened to see their truck parked outside and said, “Hey, I know a guy in Kaka’ako who might be able to help.” That guy connected them to Kanai, the owner of Discount Window Tint Hawaii, and the person who finally gave them a shot and the space. “He didn’t care that we didn’t have experience,” Thyda said. “He gave us a chance — and that’s all we needed.”
Let the Food Speak for Itself
Once they were set up in Kaka’ako, word spread fast. “People were just hungry for real Mexican food,” Thyda said. “Especially folks flying in from California — tacos are the first thing they want after a six-hour flight.”
But locals were a key part of the equation too — especially the nearby construction crews who didn’t grow up eating burritos and tacos. Thyda quickly adapted. “My husband said, ‘We need to make rice bowls.’ They wanted rice, something they were familiar with. That’s how our rice bowls were born.”
As for marketing? It’s been pretty organic. “We’re on Google Maps, but mostly, it’s been word of mouth. The food speaks for itself.”
(I can vouch for that. I had their burrito — hands down the best I’ve had since moving to O‘ahu.)
The Power of Local Collaboration
When I asked Thyda about the value of partnering with other local businesses or tour operators, her answer was immediate: “It makes a huge difference. Hawai‘i is all about community. Locals support local. So if another well-known local business shares your name, it brings so much more exposure.”
That’s something I’ve seen firsthand, too — whether you’re running a food truck, a kayak tour, or a small retail business, your network is your foundation. People want to support folks who are rooted in the islands and contributing to the ‘ohana of local business.
Aloha in Action
Thyda’s story is a reminder that building a business in Hawai‘i isn’t just about strategy or branding — it’s about heart. It’s about the people who say yes when others say no. It’s about making food for your neighbors, not just your customers. And it’s about adapting, giving back, and doing things with aloha.
As I continue building my own local business — a self-guided clear kayak tour based right here on O‘ahu — I’m inspired by stories like Thyda’s. They show what’s possible when you stay true to your roots, stay flexible, and stay connected.
🌮 Go Try Thyda’s Tacos
If you’re in Kaka’ako, and looking for some ono grindz, don’t miss Thyda’s Tacos. Whether you’re fresh off the plane from LA or born and raised in the 808, you’ll find something to love — from the tacos to the rice bowls, and the awesome people behind the counter.
Find them on Google Maps: Thyda’s Tacos, Queen St, Kaka’ako
Follow them on social media: Instagram, Facebook
And always: support local, eat well, and spread aloha.
