After being closed for years following devastating king tides that struck its Aroa premises, Kaena Restaurant and Takeaway in Arorangi has decided to reopen.

Located across a beach frequented by tourists, Kaena boasts a menu that sets it apart as Rarotonga’s first Filipino-Asian fusion restaurant.

New operator, Juian Perla, is determined to bring a fresh twist to the restaurant while honouring Kaena’s legacy.

“This venture is truly a blessing for me and my family, and we are very thankful to the Lord for this opportunity,” said Perla.

“First of all, I would like to thank the owner, Mama Lynn and Shane Solomon, for giving me this opportunity to manage and reopen Kaena Restaurant, which has been closed for so many years.”

From left: Dexter (chef), Ariel (chef), Julian Perla (operator), and Rolly (bartender) – 24112101.

Perla says the focus is on grilled and sizzling dishes, crafted by skilled chefs from the Philippines.

“I wanted something different, like something Filipino, because this is a new thing here on the island. There’s no Filipino cuisine or something,” Perla shared.

“To ensure an authentic menu and experience for customers, we have brought on board the talented and experienced Filipino chef and bartender who have come all the way from the Philippines to join us here in Rarotonga.”

The restaurant offers a blend of local hospitality and Filipino flair, serving not only food but also coffee and drinks from its bar.

Perla believes the new venture is a meaningful addition to Rarotonga’s vibrant dining scene.

“We hope to be part of your exciting memories here in paradise,” said Perla. “Whether locals or tourists, we look forward to welcoming them to Kaena Restaurant here in Arorangi, near the Rarotonga Beach Resort.”

Perla, who previously lived in Rarotonga for over a decade and worked at the Cook Islands Water Centre, returned to manage Kaena after relocating to New Zealand for family reasons.

Despite the challenges of reopening, he remains optimistic.

“We were supposed to open last week, but because of some avoidable delays beyond our control, the opening was slightly delayed. Praise the Lord, we managed to fix the issues earlier, and we can finally reopen,” he said.

With its new menu and a vision to serve both locals and visitors, Perla is confident Kaena Restaurant will become a beloved spot in Arorangi once again.

“Kaena is the old name, but I still carry the old name because it’s been here for eight years, I think. This is meaningful to them, so they want us to carry it. I think Kaena means bread from heaven, something like that.” Kaena Restaurant is now open and welcoming diners to experience the unique flavours of Filipino-Asian fusion in Rarotonga.