Tanioka’s Express Waipio

Well hello Tanioka’s Express at Waipio! I do have to admit I’m one of the loyal customers of Tanioka’s that was not making it to Waipahu because of the traffic and long lines.
When I read in the newspaper that said they won the concession contract I was so excited. Then the news of their opening last week was elation for my taste buds.
Finally, husband and I made it down to the Waipio location inside of CORP, next to the swimming pool) about 12:10 p.m. There’s no signage as you drive in but look for people walking out with bags and boxes of bentos, plate lunches and okazu items.
As we walk towards the restaurant, we spock the end of the line… past the doorway. I don’t care how long the line is. I’m having my fish patty!
As we start moving up (within 7 mins) we were the 4^th customers in line. They have the workers (order takers) pass out paper menus so you know what you want when they come back to take your orders. It’s just a temporary system they got going to find their groove and the flow of customers.
Order submitted and wait on the side for them to call your name when orders are complete. Pay at window and on the way home to grind!
The food is the same items you can get at the Waipahu location. There were racks with Samurai popcorn, Ishiharaya senbei, Tanioka’s li hing mango, cookies and other snack stuff.
There’s also tables with chairs to sit and dine in if you choose to. Nice to see families hanging out and people reconnecting with other friends waiting in line. It’s a very welcoming atmosphere and can’t go wrong with ANYTHING from Tanioka’s!