Over the past year I've documented a transformative chapter for the award-winning restaurant Arden Waikiki. The project captured the arrival of new General Manager and Wine Sommelier Jonathan Carlile, who joined partners Chef Makoto Ono and Chef Amanda Cheng. This span saw the launch of bold new initiatives—from the Friday-Sunday Ohana Menu to a revamped wine program divided into Natural Wine, The Classics, and Ball So Hard.”

We celebrated three Hale 'Aina Awards (Gold for Service, Silver for Cocktails, Bronze for Dessert), a Valentine's Day mobile rosé cart, and natural wine collaborations that brought fresh energy to the space.

But my favorite frames? The daily family meal Chef Makoto cooks for the entire restaurant and hotel staff. I like experiencing his artistry through different cuisines and flavors that may never appear on Arden's menu.

@arden_waikiki // ardenwaikiki.com