ChefZone

You need to sign for a membership card which is free, there is a fee for a lost card. They will check if you have a card when you enter the store.
This store is HUGE! They have everything you need for a party, from paper goods, cooking ware, lots of vegetables, items sold in bulk.
I made my visit this time around because I heard from my friends they sell lady finger cookies, and my friends knew I been looking at most major stores and gourmet stores. I was happy to had found! They had lots on the shelf so I took what I needed and didn’t shop for anything els since they were getting ready to close. People told me to order the lady finger cookies on line, but I didn’t want to pay extra for shipping, and didn’t want to receive the cookies broken. I was able to make a big batch of chocolate tiramisu for Christmas, thanks to Chef Zone and the variety of unique products.
Sadly, the cashiers were usually quite unhappy each time I went. They don’t even greet you, or tell you thank you.
As for parking, there are lots and close to the door entrance

I like ChefZone because I can avoid the Costco crowd. Not only that, the bulk items comes in a pack that’s a bit less than Costco, so for me, it’s more manageable. I feel like the produce is a bit fresher than Costco too. I don’t know why I keep comparing it to Costco, but yes… this is an alternate for your food needs. LoL

ChefZone is located near the Honolulu International Airport. It is owned by Y. Hata & Co. Ltd.
Membership is required (and at some point ChefZone will have a membership FEE) but for right now all you need to do is sign up and you get a card right there. Don’t lose your card though, because if you do, you will be charged $ 5!
I love the 3 GALLON TUBS OF DAVE’S HAWAIIAN ICE CREAM! So cheap (cheaper than the Dave’s Ice Cream Factory in Pearl City!!)… Call ahead to find out what flavors ChefZone has in stock!
I really like the Asian foods aisle at ChefZone! They have a ginormous tub of Sambal Olek (chili garlic sauce) and potato starch (which is really the best for deep frying!!)…
There is a kitchen supply area with very useful items that a restaurant and/​or home chef/​cook could use. Lots of gadgets and baking items as well.
I like the huge selection of flour tortillas that ChefZone has in stock! Tomato and Spinach and a few others. The tortillas come in all different sizes too!
I’m not a fan of bubble tea but ChefZone does have an extensive array or flavors.
I am however a huge coffee drinker and ChefZone even sells the flavored syrups so I don’t have to pay 50¢ a shot!
One place I really enjoy going to is the ChillZone! ChefZone even supplies coats so that you don’t freeze in there! My favorite thing to get is the fresh vegetables (mushrooms, bok choy, cilantro, etc)… ChefZone has a huge selection of fresh vegetables (much more assortment than Costco) and most of the vegetable items are cheaper than Costco! ChillZone is my favorite part of ChefZone hands down!
There is an aisle filled with restaurant sized seasoning and herbs! I love this aisle!!! I can find everything I need and it is so much cheaper than buying it from the super market and there are way more varieties of seasoning and herbs here vice Costco! Huge bottles of food coloring too!
All in all when compared to Costco there are some definite pros to ChefZone! But for the meats and shellfish I would still stick to Costco.

nice, clean and friendly customer service as always. Will is always a great person to help in the chiller, Cherish always friendly, and Chris always greats me and everyone else with ALOHA! Thanks

Today was my first time going to this place. We would always go to YHATA, so I figured it would be similar. Parking was GREAT, the stalls were big so lots of room for my truck. It wasnt crowded at all when we arrived. As we walked in, we were immediately greeted:)), I liked that. So being my first time I didnt know how memberships worked, but the lady at the desk basically asked if it was for my business or individual, signed a piece of paper n was told next time I come back to get my membership card:)).Kool nice n easy.
My main reason going to this store was to see if they had a different variety of containers, but unfortunately they didnt have what I was looking for, so we browsed around. I loved the container section with the serving utensils. Some things a little pricey, but not bad.
Now we get to the chill zone, I couldnt wait to go in there. They have these coats hanging on the outside of the freezer before u walk in for u to wear if u can’t bare the cold:)).As my son n I walked it, we were laughing n all excited because even with the jackets on we were still cold. At first I couldnt even function n look at the things, LOL… But I gathered myself was okay, hehe. We stayed in the Chill Zone for about a good 10 – 15 mins. Once out into the warehouse it felt so good, lol…
Check out line was super quick n friendly. Overall this place is a great place for utensils n restaurant necessities. I will def. be back

This is my first time to this store.
They have some items that I haven’t seen at other places. It’s a really good spot if you have a restaurant or are planning a party as some items are sold in bulk and they have upscale cooking gear (Slicers, fryers, pans, etc).
They also have a walk-​in fridge with all the cold items. And they have jackets for you to wear when you go in.
Although they do have a lot of items, it’s really a hit or miss on the prices. Some things are alot cheaper than other bulk stores such as Costco or Sam’s Club, and some are about the same.

So where has ChefZone been all my life? Or at least since moving to Oahu. It’s a food-​service supply store that is open to the general public, as well as business owners and, well, chefs. They have an impressive range of merchandise, including some cake/​pastry supplies (though I wish they had more). Things like bubble tea mixes, popping boba (!), canned goods, specialty ingredients, gourmet items, pantry staples like sugar and flour, fresh breads from local bakeries, to-​go containers, kitchen utensils, serveware, and a huge walk-​in chill zone with refrigerated items and produce. Jackets thoughtfully provided at the doors! Prices are generally reasonable, some prices are a bit high simply because you have to buy in bulk. I bought a bottle of coconut syrup (for Italian sodas or espresso drinks) for easily half the price I’ve seen in local grocery stores and it will last for a while. Flour and sugar prices are on par with or better than the warehouse clubs. I bought a number of things recently for a party (small square dessert/​shot glasses, plates, cups, etc) and was very pleased with everything — high quality stuff.
Membership card required for entry and checkout, but it’s free. Friendly and helpful staff. Plenty of covered parking and a location near the airport that is easily accessible.

I seriously love coming to this store! I could stay in it for hours just walking down the aisles and looking at the items they carry.
They’re the perfect go-​to place if you need to buy things in bulk. Whether is containers, utensils, condiments & even cleaning supplies. Anything related to the food service industry they got it! Oh and the prices are VERY nice too might I add! They also have those section known as the «Chill Zone» and let me tell you, it’s REALLY chilly in there. In fact they offer compliments freezer coats that you can borrow while you’re in the chill zone & I HIGHLY recommend to use it. They have a large variety of meats and seafoods that’s very impressive!
The only downfall in my opinion is location. I live on the west side so driving down by Keehi Lagoon side is trouble some at times especially during traffic hours. But if you’re looking to save a buck and need a specific cut of meat or food containers then this is the place to go!

If you’re in the industry or just cook a lot at home then this is a dreamland for you. Lots of items though you need to know your prices, some items can be found cheaper at sams or costco.

I don’t know how to describe Chefzone in one word. Let’s just use the word «GUY». Why not just use «amazing» or «awesome»? Because the word «guy» sums it up. Guy is actually the name of one of the managers that works at Chefzone. Whenever I needed something, he got me it or if Chefzone didn’t have it he would refer me to somewhere that did. For example I needed ti leaves for a catering. I checked with Chefzone but they didn’t carry it. The next day Guy cut down his ti leaf plant and gave me leaves. Who does that?!?
Anyways sorry I traveled off the path. So Chefzone offers everything that Costco and SAM’s club offers. The difference is that they offer two things: they offer chef approved, restaurant quality products & they do case discounts.
They are open every days but close at 6 on the weekdays and earlier on the weekend.
They have membership for the public and for businesses. Both are free but businesses get to go in earlier.
PROS: The products they offer range from seafood (soft shell crab, shrimp and fish), beef (all cuts, local and domestic) fries, cheeses, salami, etc) if you ate a certain fancy product at a restaurant, chances are you can find it here.
Case discounts are also really cool because you get discounts for buying more. I wanted to make tuna sandwiches and got a discount for buying a case (6 cans)
The staff always helps me when I go and they somehow remember my name (maybe I go too often)
Works in Progress: they close a bit earlier than the warehouse stores. Other than that I can’t think of anything bad

So because I was told about this place a few days ago, and totally had no idea my mom and brother were members I decided to come here!
Everyone says its like a super sophisticated Costco so I thought ah! Why not right?
As soon as I walked in I was greeted right away, the people were very friendly. I do want to point out that the onions are super cheap lol. I like the fact that they sell items you can’t find anywhere else and especially for a decent price.
They have this freezer section where you have to put on a coat to enter, and boy oh boy it’s cold in there.
They sell beautiful pieces of meat. Some things I will say are a little more expensive just by a few dollars.
Other then that, I’d say this place is pretty cool, if your looking for a specific item you may or may not find it at this store. All in all I loved it. I’ll probably be back depending on what I need.
By the way! Parking spaces are HUGE lol just FYI.

Wow heard about this place from a friend and of course had to Check it out, looking at the prices they were on par or cheaper than you know those two other bulk item stores. Yes they cater to the food industry but membership is Free! I had to hold myself back from purchasing several items as I’d be eating that for a week at least! I really like the Cold Room it is cold! haha the vegetables looked great and I was so tempted to grab the watercress but two huge bunches would be a bit too much for just me.
The meat prices were great as well as some of the seafood selections. I love this store it’s so clean and the bathrooms are clean and with modern fixtures to save water cause you know the men’s bathroom at most places stink and it’s hard when you have to tow two little kids in them.
Sadly I was just doing recon so we didn’t buy much but I did get coerced into buying two huge bags of Boiled peanuts because the little sweetie of mine loves them.
Would love to see what kind of classes they may have in that huge room they have, I’ll definately be back to buy some stuff!

This place is awesome!
Great alternative then shopping at Costco. Obviously Costco will have cheaper common goods. But when it comes to planning party’s and camping you can’t go wrong. This place is meant for Restaurant Owners and Catering Companies. But theirs so much local specialty items that can be purchased in bulk here. If your the neighborhood/​family party planner or you have that one dad that loves to cook, you need to shop here. Parking is easy, membership is a breeze and staff is extremely friendly. My new favorite place to shop for food! Thank you Chef Zone Ohana: D

Chef zone a supplement to costco for certain foods with additional cooking supplies. I really like this place because they have different items for cheap, although bulk, plus membership is free.
Latour lavosh and breads — the lavosh is same price as the latour at farmer’s market, but the breads are a little cheaper.
Bags of rice, sauces, noodles, etc.
Bubble drink pre-​made powders and supplies. Why go to the stores to buy $ 5 bubble drinks a cup when you can make 20 of them at home for $ 5.
Cooking utensils for restaurants or for individuals. great assortment of supplies ranging from mixers to pans, racks and containers.
Chill zone — fruits, vegetables, sauces, meats, seafood, desserts, etc and even buns for peking duck!

I’ve been wanting to do a review for ChefZone but it kept slipping my mind. Anyway, I went to Honolulu a few months ago for a work meeting. Two of my colleagues mentioned they wanted to go to ChefZone so I was like alright let’s go! Being that I’ve been in the Food Service Industry and that Culinary Arts is all I know, this place really blew my mind! I could’ve easily spent an hour or two or three checking everything out, but I had a plane to catch. Boooooo! ChefZone is a candy store for chefs, culinary enthusiasts, and for everyone who has a knack for food!
ChefZone is from the Y. Hata company, a food service distribution giant. Like Costco, membership is free and is less crowded and for me that’s a plus! It’s open to restaurants, food service organizations and food service businesses. ChefZone, 45,000 square foot of space with over 6,000 different items.
I could’ve spent thousands of dollars and bought hundreds of items all for the cafeteria I run and of course things for my kitchen at home. Sorry that didn’t happen, lol, not with the amount of time I had. Staff is very helpful, facilities are so nice and clean and very organized. Sad that I didn’t get to check out the Chill Zone and the rest of the store. Well, my first impression of ChefZone, above and beyond my expectations! I will most definitely come back here again, and that’s a guarantee. I just need to figure out how am I going to bring the WHOLE store back with me on the plane… LOL!!!

I love ChefZone!!!
I love it.
I really do.
Sometimes, if I am close by… I just go to check out what they have… as their food changes, especially the produce.
Where else can you borrow a ‘CZ’ jacket and walk through 7800 square feet of blast chilled amazingness… so awesome!
I really like their selection of fresh herbs. A large portion of it is from local farmers which is really great… and the prices are a good value as well. They are ideal for cooking and cocktails alike.
The selection of cheese and meat is fantastic as well. The range of cuts of meat is vast, and they have cheeses that are not easily found in Honolulu.
The produce was not only fresh, but reasonably priced… I would shop here every week if I lived closer…
When I was there they were prepping their test kitchen for demos… I can’t wait to go back and check out the show!
The warehouse itself is gigantic… there is a lot to check out here. They have a frozen section, refrigerated section and a regular area. If you are planning a party this is also the place to hit… you can buy in large quantities and also get quality to go along with it.
The employees are helpful here and they pretty much know where everything is… which makes it easy. It was also easy to sign up for a membership as well… anyone can join… which is perfect…
Check it out… you might see me there!!!

Chefzone is Y Hata’s take on having a brick and mortar/​cash and carry operation in addition to their delivery services. While it caters mostly to businesses, Chefzone seems a bit geared towards the individual consumer also.
I’m not completely sure about non-​business membership but my business membership was obtained via my GE license. I walked in, wrote some information in a form, put my GE license and FEIN and viola, a few minutes later, a couple cards for myself to use. The people manning the front desk are sure efficient!
Not everything here is cheaper. For example:
Meats and produce at the chilled zone is definitely not cheaper. Shop the sales in midweek for produce or Chinatown if you want a deal. Costco tends to be a step cheaper than Chefzone for produce also. Meats are also not cheaper. One would think it is cheaper but they are looking at USDA Select, considered the base grade of consumer beef. Most beef available at local supermarkets, which often are on sale, are mostly USDA Choice, a step above Select. Meats at Costco are slightly cheaper.
Extra large eggs here are sold by 15 dozens and run around mid $ 30’s range. Costco sells extra large eggs about the same price each (~17 cents) at little over $ 3 per 18. The bad thing with Chefzone is that you need to buy all 180 eggs.
Tofu. Twice the price of Chinatown.
Bowls, spoons, utensils are much cheaper at various dry good stores in Chinatown by almost half.
But what’s cheaper at Chefzone are a few things:
Spices. Slighty cheaper than supermarket, but you get about 5 times more spices. This alone is why you should buy your spices here. It’s a huge difference.
Rice is also a great deal here. You’ll have to buy by 50 lbs, but its much cheaper than when they’re on sale at supermarkets.
Overall, good start. The prices are a little off but that’s probably based on the pricing they use for delivery. Nice touch with the jackets for the chill room. Good service from all workers there.

My thoughts when I stepped into their giant walk-​in freezer with their puffy jacket:
«WINTER IS COMING.» My uncovered ears stung after 30 minutes in 40 degree weath – I mean temperature, forcing me to step out of the freezer momentarily. I now know how Jon Snow feels like on the wall.
There are several items here that are good buys imo– Torani syrup being one of them.
I thought the meat was a really good price. The only issue is that they are sold in slabs. I’m talking 1−2ft long slabs, uncut, sealed in plastic. I learned that some cuts of beef are a lot bigger than I thought (!!!). The gears in my head were moving rapidly as I looked at the meats… I thought about asking a few friends if they wanted to split a $ 75.00 slab of meat. Of course cutting would be an issue, but no one I know is a butcher, so my Chinese cleaver knife skills would have to do.
But I fear I would do some hack job like Theon did in GoT. Nah nah, I got more confidence than that !!
Oh! Also, they sell whole cakes of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake. $ 42 for 12 slices, if memory serves me right. Each slice usually sells for $ 7.50 or so at Cheesecake Factory, so it a great savings if you plan to have a party.
They also have HUGE containers of ice cream. I’m thinking of buying some for the next person I know that goes through a bad breakup. Just because ice cream makes everything better, no?
They might have some trouble fitting a several-​gallon container in their freezer though and there are few things as bad as melted ice cream. Maybe I should just buy them a pint…

Today’s visit makes #3!
I see my friend’s Facebook post, so I was curious bout this place.
Membership is free! First visit, they ran out of membership cards, when I signed up.
2^nd visit, I picked up my card. :)
& 3^rd visit, just showed them my card upon entering!
First off, I like to comment on their bathroom, this place has the cleanest, nicest,
up to date bathroom ever!
This place is huge, kind of reminds me Costco.
Never go in to Chill Zone with out jacket provided at the front. It’s freezing cold!
The chill zone is pretty cool!
It’s a separate entrance for produce.
This is my favorite section of Chef Zone.
I love the produce! It’s very fresh and prices are reasonable.
I always get a bag of parsley on all my visits, a very huge bundle for 2.09,
(This is about 5 small bunch combined from the open market)
This is a deal!
A huge bundle of watercress for 4.79, this is over 2 bunch at the open market.
Maui Pineapple is 2.52, bag of avocado is 3.53, tomato 2.07, and bag of baby spinach, around 4.00.
These are some of the items I purchased on my 3 visits.
The seafood are reasonable as well.
I bought a bag of scallops, shrimp, and imitation crab.
The one star less is for the confusing price tag in the freezer section. :(
The tags does not match the items for some products.
Lucky thing I checked with the clerk when she walked by.
I bought a bag of 3 Bale French bread for 2.30.
I didn’t make it to the back of the store, since I’m was in a rush on all 3 visits.
Nexts time.
Overall, I enjoyed shopping here! I will be back!

ChefZone is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. That’s right, you don’t need to be in the restaurant industry to shop here and you don’t need a GE license to get membership. (Membership is FREE, btw). This is a restaurant supply wholesale club, so you should only shop here if you need to cook for a whole baseball league, grade level camping trip, or a herd of hungry marathon runners. Everything is in bulk bulk supply here.
I stopped by the TABLETOP SHOWROOM (glassware, China, flatware, bar supplies, equipment, etc) because I was looking for a commercial grade kitchen appliance and they were able to help me find a quote for something. Customer service was excellent.
There is also a business center which can help with creating menus, graphic design, and marketing. Looks like the demo kitchen with workshops and events is a fun place too but I didn’t get to experience that part.
This place is like Costco’s super sexy sophisticated older cousin. She is stocked with everything you need to be in the food industry. She has everything from the appliances, cookware, serving utensils, dishes, glassware, take out containers, bulk spices, dry food, cleaning supplies, all your bubble tea supplies and straws, and don’t forget the CHILL ZONE, which is this awesome huge walk in refrigerated section that has produce, meats, dairy, vegetables, fruits, sauces, and other perishable/​semi-​perishable items. She will even keep you warm with her thick eskimo jackets while you walk through her CHILL ZONE. This is a true ONE STOP SHOP for food service.
HOURS:
Business Members: M-​F 6 – 6, Sat 7 – 4, Sun 8 – 3.
Ohana Members: M-​F 10 – 6, Sat 10 – 4, Sun 10 – 3.
CREDIT CARDS: M/​C, Visa, Amex, Discover ok. NO EBT.
LOCATION: entrance is from Ualena Street off Lagoon Drive. Look for the red sign with the chef hat on it.
What I LOVED:
Parking stalls are covered and huge.
Membership is FREE.
Customer service from the time I walked in to the time I left was outstanding.
Kitchen tools galore! Tongs, ladles, whisks, pots, pans, colanders, steamers, timers, thermometers, and more.
CHILL ZONE — produce looked great, cuts of meat were large, tofu options were plentiful.
What you may not love:
They do NOT sell: alcohol. Of if they do, they are hiding it. I didn’t see any.
This place is not for everyone! ChefZone caters to restaurants and food service operators, so if you’re looking for novelty items or school supplies, you won’t find it here. However, if you want to feed a small army or an entire carnival and need lots of bulk food, utensils, trays, tongs, chafing dishes etc, this is such a fantastic place to shop and I hope they do well because I LOVE THIS PLACE.