We were very sad to hear the news that Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Kaimuki has served its last meals.
Azteca first opened in Kaimuki in 1982, just a short distance away from its more recent location.
It appears to have been taken over by new owners, Sara and Domingo Sanchez, in 1986. They moved to a smaller space, at the corner of Waialae and Koko Head Avenue, in 1995.
Azteca was almost always busy, and got great reviews over the years from food critics and customers alike. In recent years, several generations of the family worked there, and it really was a family affair.
The imposition of covid restrictions on restaurants were difficult for all restaurants, but especially for those operating in small spaces, like Azteca. Even loosened restrictions didn’t allow Azteca to return to normal service. They transititioned to take-out or delivery orders only, but in the end that apparently wasn’t enough.
We’re really going to miss this place. It was one of our few go-to restaurants, and I don’t know of another decent spot for Mexican food on this side of the island.
Your suggestions of alternatives, please!
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How sad. A loving family establishment. They will be missed.
Sorry to hear about Azteca. Growing up in Kapahulu it was a part of my adulthood until I moved to Kahuku. When we are in town we go to Sergs in Manoa and share the flauta plate. We love their beans and rice. In Haleiwa we go to what once was Luibuenos and is now called Jorge’s. They make a really great Caesar salad.
So sorry to read that Azteca has lost the battle with COVID-induced econimic demise. THE BEST AND ONLY place for good authentic Mexican fare for 45 years of my life…. sad
Ian, I remember dining there with you and Meda when Azteca was located where Big City Diner is now. I remember the really bad paintings on the wall, and the sign in the window that read, “Azteca, Mexcan Restaurant”.
But the food was really good. ‘Sorry to see them go.
Very Sorry to see them close shop after all these years of great food and service.
Sara, Domigo and their son Issac were like family and they patiently let me practice my broken Spanish to order my food.. Their cooking was real Mexican Style. The beans, rice & Chile Rellano were the best. So many family lunches and dinner with them. Lo siento & muchas gracias
Mexican is a food I don’t expect to be wowed by here in Hawaii. Not only do the ingredients seem to be lesser in quality but the prices are almost in the “luxury” segment. For simple, basic stuff.
No, I just suck it up and save my “Mexican” (Americanized, actually) indulgences for whenever I go to California.
That said, the El Mariachi 2 in Aiea is decent with cheerful, competent service.
I’ve celebrated a great number of my birthdays at Azteca. Those celebrations were generally followed by thumbing through comics at Gecko Books & Comics when they were located across the entryway from Azteca (prior to their move to 12th Ave.). I am grateful for the many memories filled with laughter, love, and carnitas that Azteca helped to create.
The best Mexican on the island is limited to two places:
Taqueira el Gallo Rosa in Kailua – Authentic, workers are all from Mexico, better than most mainland spots.
Alejandro’s – Kapahulu or Kalihi – Southern California style authentic.
We’ll miss Azteca a lot too. Best wishes to Sara and Domingo in retirement! We can join them in looking forward to further accomplishments of the younger generations as time passes.
As for other Mexican restaurants to try—Mexican food isn’t just one thing, and tastes will vary. If you love Azteca, consider El Burrito, on Piikoi Street near the Ala Moana Center. I haven’t been there for a long time, but I’m about to call in an order. Similar style of food, also family-style friendly. A small space, limited street parking, BYOB, except that it’s takeout-only right now.
Went there today not knowing they were closed , where am i going to get molle em mole now!
I hope they come back again!
I know them too. My daughter married one of their sons. Great family, great atmosphere. Sara and Domingo are enjoying being retired.