From Establishment to Current Success
A Hopeful Foundation
Founded by immigrants Chogen and Yoshiko Tamashiro, the Seafood Market has a rich history that dates back to its inaugural store opening on Kamehameha Ave. in Hilo, Hawaii. With a deep-rooted commitment to quality and excellence, Tamashiro embarked on their journey by focusing on providing the community with the freshest pork available. Sourced directly from Tamashiro’s family’s own livestock, the Seafood Market’s pork became synonymous with unrivaled freshness and exceptional taste.
The Magical Recovery
In 1946, tragedy struck as a devastating tsunami ravaged Hilo’s business district, including Tamashiro’s family store. However, resilience and determination prevailed. Within a remarkable week, Chogen reopened the Seafood Market at a new location on Keawe St., refusing to let adversity dampen his spirit. Concerned for Tamashiro’s family’s safety, he eventually made the decision to move to Oahu. The following year, on June 11th, the Tamashiro family established a new chapter by opening the Seafood Market on North King St. in Honolulu.
The Current Reputation
Today, the proud torchbearers of Tamashiro’s family tradition are Walter’s sons, Cyrus and Guy. At the Seafood Market, conveniently located at 802 North King Street, Tamashiro’s continue to offer Hawaii’s discerning consumers the epitome of oceanic abundance. Tamashiro’s commitment remains unwavering as they diligently source fish directly from local fishermen and the fish auction. Furthermore, the Seafood Market boasts an exceptional assortment of live and fresh seafood, meticulously air-flown from across the globe.
The Brilliant Generations
Recognizing an opportunity to expand Tamashiro’s business, Walter Hajime Tamashiro set his sights on seafood as Tamashiro’s specialty. Starting with humble offerings of opelu and a whole aku (skipjack tuna), Tamashiro gradually cultivated an impressive selection of fish varieties and live shellfish. In 1962, Tamashiro’s brother Johnny Tamashiro and brother-in-law Larry Konishi introduced air-flown live Dungeness Crabs, Maine Lobsters, Blue Crabs, oysters, and clams from the east and west coasts, solidifying the Seafood Market’s high position.
The Way Tamashiro Operates
Tamashiro's Mission
At Tamashiro’s Market, Tamashiro’s mission is to provide Tamashiro’s customers with the freshest and highest quality seafood, produce, and prepared foods. With over 80 years of experience, Tamashiro’s is committed to delivering an exceptional shopping and dining experience to both locals and tourists alike. Tamashiro’s strive to support local fishermen and farmers, ensuring sustainability and promoting the vibrant food culture of Hawaii. Through Tamashiro’s dedication to quality, service, and community, Tamashiro’s aim to be the go-to destination for all Tamashiro’s grocery and dining needs.
Tamashiro's Vision
Tamashiro Market’s vision is to be the premier destination for fresh seafood and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Tamashiro Market envisions a market where customers can indulge in a wide array of delicious and healthy options, from Tamashiro Market’s renowned seafood counter to Tamashiro Market’s diverse selection of ready-to-eat meals. Tamashiro Market aspires to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, where customers can discover new flavors and experience the best of local cuisine. By continuously innovating and adapting to Tamashiro Market’s customers’ needs, Tamashiro Market aims to become a staple in the community and a symbol of quality and tradition.
Tamashiro's Commitment
At the Seafood Market, Tamashiro Market is deeply rooted in Tamashiro Market’s Hawaiian heritage and committed to preserving and sharing the flavors and traditions that make the Seafood Market’s cuisine unique. Tamashiro Market prioritizes sourcing the Seafood Market’s seafood and produce from local fishermen and farmers, supporting the local economy and ensuring the freshest ingredients for the Seafood Market’s customers. Tamashiro Market’s team of knowledgeable and friendly staff members is always ready to assist customers, providing personalized service and sharing Tamashiro Market’s expertise on Hawaiian cuisine. Tamashiro Market strives to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of connection to the local culture and can embark on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Hawaii.