About Us
An Aloha Story
Our founder, Rain Qiu, first visited Hawaii in 1999. He instantly fell in love with the island’s natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, and especially the vibrant local food scene. Whether dining in a traditional Hawaiian restaurant or grabbing a plate lunch from a street vendor, Rain was deeply moved by the comfort and warmth of Hawaiian cuisine. It reminded him of his mother’s home-cooked meals and made him feel at home. But it wasn’t just the food- it was the spirit behind it. The heartfelt hospitality and the “Aloha Spirit” left a lasting impression on him. After that trip, Rain knew Hawaii would always be part of his life — and maybe even his future.
With over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Rain began to ask himself: Why not bring Hawaiian cuisine and the Aloha Spirit inland to the U.S. mainland?
Rain’s vision for the perfect Hawaiian BBQ restaurant became a reality in 2005 with the opening of his very first location.
After more than a decade of hard work, the Hawaiian BBQ brand led and managed by Rain has grown to 18 locations, primarily across the West Coast. Among them, the Aloha Express that opened in Visalia, California in 2019 is Rain’s proudest achievement – and the most refined and mature expression of his vision for a Hawaiian BBQ restaurant.
From the very first version of the restaurant to today’s most developed Aloha Express, the journey has been long, full of challenges, and marked by constant innovation. Due to regional limitations and ingredient sourcing, Rain knew he couldn’t replicate Hawaiian dishes exactly – so he created a unique fusion menu that still honored the essence of the original cuisine. He insisted on using the freshest ingredients and maintaining the soul of Hawaiian flavors. He brought not just the food, but the feeling from the décor to the details, every part of the restaurant was designed to immerse guests in the tastes and warmth of the islands.
His goal? To create a menu, atmosphere, and level of service that make every guest feel the true Aloha Spirit.
MEET THE LOCAL
OWNERS
When we had the chance to bring Rain’s vision of Hawaiian cuisine to Tennessee, we jumped at the opportunity. We are honored to help share the Aloha Spirit with a wider audience and bring awareness to the values and culture of islanders. We’re proud to represent that spirit here.
HAPPY Customers
- David S.
“I’ve been waiting for a Hawaiian BBQ place to open in TN for years now. Macaroni Salad and Hawaiian BBQ Chicken calling my name. Aloha Hawaiian BBQ did not disappoint. Their food was amazing as well as their service. I loved to see their story on the walls and all the staff welcomed me with a smile. This new restaurant is full of culture and good eats.
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- Madison B
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- Sarah I