Like a Local: The Public Pet’s Guide to Kaimuki
February 17, 2017
One of Honolulu’s oldest neighborhoods, Kaimuki has a unique mix of residential charm and modern urban culture. The neighborhood’s history is rooted in its sense of community, and undoubtedly, its present and future are continuing that legacy. From the growing food and craft beer scene to the carefully curated boutiques and quaint cafes, Kaimuki offers a range of businesses that are as diverse as its residents.
One shop that’s adding to Kaimuki’s appeal is The Public Pet, a boutique for the coolest cats and the most dapper of dogs. For just over a year, The Public Pet has been the go-to spot for animals and their adoring owners. Co-owner Jordan Lee wants your pets to look good and do good—so he supports local artists and brands by stocking the shelves with independent labels from Hawaii, as well as a thoughtful mix of items from around the world.
We asked Jordan to give us the inside scoop on what makes Kaimuki so special.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO OPEN THE PUBLIC PET IN KAIMUKI?
Kaimuki is unique and charming. It’s full of small businesses really, a cool mix of young and old, local and tourist, high and low end. There really was no pet industry store in the immediate neighborhood, so we saw our chance to make it work.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
Oh man, the pets and the people would be my favorite part—there’s such an amazing mix of dogs and cats that live in the Kaimuki/Palolo area. The people here are very easy to talk to and they truly appreciate all the new businesses opening up on Waialae Avenue. It’s refreshing and very rewarding. The food would be my second reason. It’s really an awesome neighborhood for every meal of the day! So many styles of cooking and so many options.
WHERE DO YOU GRAB YOUR MORNING COFFEE?
The Curb. Iced Americano, two shots please.
WHAT’S FOR LUNCH?
AFTER WORK WE CAN FIND YOU AT…
Mud Hen Water or Town [sister restaurants to the Surfjack’s Mahina & Sun’s]
FAVORITE SHOPS, BUSINESSES AND EATERIES INCLUDE…
Breadshop, Super Pho, Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery, E.A.R.L. Sandwich, Via Gelato, Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquors, HMB, To Thai For…, Bead It! Hawaii
HIDDEN GEMS:
Crack Seed Store, Kaimuki Dry Goods, Shop Toast, Surf N Hula Hawaii, Goodwill, Otto Cake, The Pillbox Pharmacy
photos via The Public Pet, The Curb Kaimuki, Mud Hen Water, Ka Leo, Mod Traveler