A popular gathering place in Moiliili has welcomed guests for centuries.
Now the kamaaina favorite is expanding to welcome the New Year and new guests.
Hidden in Moiliili is an oasis from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu.
"Hawaiian royalty used to stay here and enjoy the ponds and enjoy luaus here,” said Garret Kamei, The Willows general manager.
Known as Kapaakea Springs in the 1800's, the historic site for entertaining and dining is now known as The Willows.
"In 1944 the Hausten family decided to open the home up to the world and turn it into a restaurant,” said Kamei.
Nearly 70 years later the garden restaurant and special event location continues to expand its services marking some improvements in 2012.
"We didn't have entertainment for a while but it seemed as thought the restaurant wasn't alive...decided it’s time to bring it back,” said Kamei.
In an effort to promote and preserve Hawaiian music The Willows is now looking for musicians and hula dancers because starting this month they will feature live Hawaiian music and dance Thursday through Saturday nights.
"It also provides some credibility to who we are as musicians. The private gigs are here and there so it's always good to have a steady gig that is there on weekly basis that brings in the income,” said Kale Hannahs of Waipuna.
"Gives us more jobs and more opportunity to reach more people,” said Matt Sproat of Waipuna.
The Willows is also a spot for baby luaus, civil unions and weddings.
For the first time they will offer complimentary Valentine's Day wedding vow renewals and promise ceremonies for all patrons on February 14th.
The restaurant also boasts a new executive chef who plans to expand on the popular Hawaiian buffet to include new recipes including an all local, heart healthy and vegetarian dish.
"We've been getting a lot of requests by guests or when they dine they have special diets or restrictions,” said Miles Miyamoto, executive chef.
"A lot of new things so we are expecting 2012 to be great for us,” said Kamei.
