Technology

Waikiki pizza vending machine awaits health approval

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August 3, 2026

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A pizza vending machine has attracted attention in Waikiki, but it is still awaiting approval from the Hawaii State Department of Health, according to a KHON News report. Speedzza Go is located at 1958 Kalakaua Ave. on the Ohana Hale property, where its advertised promise of pizza around the clock has generated curiosity among residents and visitors.

Owner Steeve Athlan said the machine will store premade pizzas and cook them when customers place an order. Athlan, who owns the Around The Pearl jewelry store at Ala Moana Center, said he first considered launching the concept about 13 years ago while living in Tahiti. He revived the plan after his daughter recently saw similar machines operating there, turning the idea into a father-daughter venture.

Businesses near the machine expressed interest in seeing how customers respond. Ohana Hale owner Christopher Ulu said the unusual concept could work well in Hawaii, while a neighboring food truck operator acknowledged the added competition and raised broader concerns about automation replacing jobs. Athlan said the launch depends on completing the state's health approval process.

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