Featured Business of the Week

Island Rootz Cafe by Aunty Maile Is the South Bay's New Hawaiian Destination

When a local family known for serving authentic Hawaiian comfort food opens another restaurant, people notice. That's exactly what's happening at Island Rootz Cafe by Aunty Maile, the newest island-inspired eatery quietly building a loyal following in Gardena.

Owned by Torrance locals Kai and Junko Tsukiyama, the restaurant continues a family tradition that many South Bay residents already know and love. The couple also owns Aunty Maile's Hawaiian Restaurant in Torrance and Aloha Platez & Shave Ice Company in Gardena, making Island Rootz Cafe another chapter in their mission to bring authentic Hawaiian flavors to Southern California.

Island Comfort Food That Feels Like Home

Island Rootz Cafe focuses on hearty, made-from-scratch Hawaiian classics that deliver generous portions and comforting flavors.

Some customer favorites include:

• Three unique versions of the famous Loco Moco
• Crispy Chicken Katsu
• Hawaiian-style Garlic Shrimp
• Fresh Ahi Poke prepared with ogo seaweed, roasted kukui nuts (inamona), green onions, and Hawaiian sea salt
• Traditional Hawaiian plate lunches
• Daily specials inspired by the islands

Every dish reflects the family's roots while offering the warm hospitality Hawaii is known for.

Why It's Worth Visiting

One of the best parts about South LA County is discovering locally owned restaurants before everyone else does.

Island Rootz Cafe isn't a flashy chain or trendy pop-up. It's the kind of neighborhood restaurant that earns repeat customers through consistently great food, friendly service, and authentic recipes passed down through generations.

Whether you're already a fan of Hawaiian cuisine or trying loco moco for the first time, this is the kind of hidden gem that's worth adding to your weekend plans.

Restaurant Information

📍 Island Rootz Cafe by Aunty Maile
1610 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., Suite 11
Gardena, CA 90247

☎️ (424) 556-8200

Open for lunch and dinner.

Why We Love It

We're passionate about showcasing the businesses that make our communities unique. Island Rootz Cafe by Aunty Maile is exactly the type of locally owned restaurant that helps define the culture and flavor of the South Bay.

If you're looking to explore beyond the usual restaurant chains, this is an easy recommendation.

Stay Connected with South LA County

Want more local restaurant discoveries, weekend events, neighborhood guides, hidden gems, and real estate updates?

Subscribe to the newsletter and stay connected with everything happening across Long Beach, Gardena, Torrance, Carson, Inglewood, Redondo Beach, San Pedro, and the surrounding South Bay communities.

Discover local. Support local. Live local.