Kalei’s Kitchenette: Celebrating Two Years of Aloha and Community

Last June 21st, Kalei’s Kitchenette celebrated its second anniversary with a vibrant community event. This gathering perfectly reflected our mission: bringing people together through great Hawaiian food, heartfelt connections, and local culture.

Held outside our shop in the heart of Rancho Peñasquitos, the event was a joyful mix of tradition, flavor, and fun. It underscored why Kalei’s Kitchenette continues to grow as a beloved spot for Hawaiian catering and authentic island experiences.

Hula from the Heart

San Diego Hula Academy

Setting the tone for the day, the San Diego Hula Academy performed a series of traditional and modern hula numbers. Their performances filled the air with aloha.

The storytelling, movement, and music brought the island spirit to life. It reminded everyone of the cultural roots behind the Hawaiian cuisine we serve.

Tipanie O Patitifa

Kalei’s Kitchenette is excited to welcome Tipanie O Patitifa!

We are honored to host this incredible Polynesian dance troupe. Their vibrant performances and deep cultural roots bring the true spirit of the islands to life. Mahalo for sharing your mana and aloha with our community!

Founded in 1973, Tipanie O Patitifa is a storied Polynesian dance troupe based in Escondido, California. They have spent over five decades sharing island culture through captivating performances.

Their mission is to preserve and celebrate authentic Polynesian dance traditions. They engage the community by teaching students of all ages and performing at various venues. This brings the spirit of the islands to local events.

Led by Don and Dawn Cheek, a mother-and-son duo, the troupe blends family values with artistic excellence. They foster a sense of ʻohana (family) and community connection.

Creative Corner: Global Art San Diego

As families gathered, Global Art San Diego hosted a coloring corner. This quickly became a favorite for keiki and parents alike.

Their contribution added a playful, interactive touch to the event. It was just one more example of how Kalei’s creates full-sensory experiences. Whether you’re visiting us for a plate of Hawaiian food or a catered community event, we strive to engage all your senses.

Spotlight on Musubi Madness

Our first-ever Musubi Madness competition was a showstopper. Twenty participants entered the challenge, starting with a musubi speed-eating contest. It finished with a mystery box musubi-building round.

The event was creative, chaotic, and crowd-pleasing. It celebrated the culinary spirit that reflects the fun side of Hawaiian catering done Kalei’s-style.

Meet Our Volunteer Judges

Judge Spotlight: Jocelyn Lomahan

A trusted San Diego real estate expert and longtime community advocate, Jocelyn is known for her deep neighborhood ties. She is involved with the Rancho Peñasquitos Town Council.

Her sharp judgment and genuine love for Hawaiian food made her an ideal Musubi Madness judge.

Judge Spotlight: Judee “The Foodie” Ha-Guevarra

Better known as Judee the Foodie, Judy Ha-Guevarra is a digital creator and entrepreneur. She celebrates approachable recipes and local culinary talent.

Her love for bold flavors and food-centric events made her a natural fit for the musubi competition panel.

Community Connection: Representation from Councilmember Marni Von Wilpert

Although Councilmember Marni Von Wilpert couldn’t attend in person, her office was proudly represented. This highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses and community-led events that enrich our district.

A Special Recognition

To our surprise and honor, Kalei’s Kitchenette received a Certificate of Recognition from the Mayor of San Diego. This was a meaningful acknowledgment of our efforts not just as a Hawaiian catering provider, but as a local hub for cultural and community engagement.

Why We Do It

Running a Hawaiian food business means more than serving great meals. It means showing up for the people who support us. We create moments of togetherness and are active stewards of the neighborhood we call home.

We plan events like this because they matter. We live here too. From our kids’ schools to our Sunday grocery runs, everything we do is rooted within a five-mile stretch of this community. That’s why every meal, every celebration, and every catering order is served with aloha.

To all who came, cheered, ate, judged, and supported, mahalo nui loa. Here’s to more years of delicious food, lasting relationships, and meaningful community gatherings from Kalei’s Kitchenette.