At Pua's Plate Lunch, we are driven by a profound commitment to honor, celebrate, and sustain the rich culinary heritage of Hawai'i. Our mission is to bring the unique flavors of Hawai'i to the DMV using our cuisine as a bridge to share aloha and perpetuate Hawaiian culture.
'O Nāpualokelani Kamakele ko'u inoa
Born and raised in Nānākuli and an alumni of Kamehameha Schools, Nāpua believes strongly in sharing her Hawaiian culture through her food. After a 24 year career in commercial real estate in Washington, DC, Nāpua decided it was time to finally pursue her passion that has manifested into Pua’s Plate Lunch. Nāpua is deeply committed to causes and organizations that seek to advocate for Native Hawaiian rights and indigenous rights throughout the world. Nāpua proudly serves as an alaka'i (teacher) and the Administrative Director of Hālau Nohona Hawai'i, a traditional hula school located in Silver Spring, MD. She also is co-President of Ke Ali'i Maka'ainānā Hawaiian Civic Club of Washington, DC.
Nāpua is an avid solo traveler as she loves to learn about new cultures (especially indigenous cultures), a diehard Steelers fan (often traveling to Pittsburgh for games as well as other cities for away games) and a powerlifter - she can be found at her favorite gym fives days out of the week. Nāpua lives in Woodbridge, VA with her three children Kealaula, Ikaika and Ka'ala.