About Us

What began as a long-vacant lot beside Huggo’s flagship restaurant became an opportunity to create something more relaxed and welcoming — a true toes-in-the-sand restaurant and bar that celebrates island-fresh food, tropical libations, and the extraordinary local musicians who call Hawaiʻi home.

The concept was simple: casual dining, a fun and easygoing atmosphere, and a place where friends and families could gather, slow down, and create memories together.

Eric, a fourth-generation Chinese-Hawaiian and a graduate of Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy, began working at Huggo’s at a young age. Starting as an 11-year-old busboy alongside his siblings during summer breaks, he worked every role in the restaurant long before stepping into leadership. Over the decades, that hands-on experience shaped a hospitality philosophy grounded in humility, consistency, and community.

Together with longtime partner Scott Dodd, Eric helped grow what is now Luana Hospitality Group — a collection of locally rooted hospitality brands including Huggo’s Restaurant, On the Rocks, Kai Eats + Drinks, Lava Lava Beach Club Waikoloa, and Lava Lava Beach Club Kauaʻi. As Principals, Eric and Scott continue to guide the company with a shared commitment to genuine service, strong teams, and experiences that reflect the spirit of Hawaiʻi.

Giving back has always been central to that mission. Luana Hospitality Group’s largest community initiative, Aloha Pass It On, was created to formalize a lifelong commitment to supporting Hawaiʻi’s people and places. Since 2019, the program has given back more than $367,000 to local nonprofits, schools, and community organizations across the islands.

At its core, Luana Hospitality Group exists to bring people together — honoring place, culture, and connection through food, music, and moments that extend far beyond the restaurant walls.