2026-07-02 Liquor Commission Packet Hilo

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BUSINESS DESCRIPTION & CONCEPI 'I TUN HAWA1`1 is a locally owned and operated business focused on delivering a refined and intentional hospitality experience. The business will integrate two complementan' functions within a single premises: a retail storefront and a seated cocktail lounge called Extraction Speakeasy. The retail component will operate during daytime hours as a standalone space offering curated goods. During evening lounge hours, it will transition into a controlled intake and reception area for the speakeasy. This dual use will allow for better management of guest float- and will provide a clear separation between public entn- and the controlled lounge environment. The retail space will offer drink -related items such as glassware, flasks, shot glasses, and accessories. The business will also partner with small local vendors, including bakers and craft businesses, to provide retail opportunities for those without storefronts. These vendors may be assigned designated shelf space and utilize QR-based payment systems.,with TUN HAWAI`I providing the secure space_ transaction confirmation, and staffing support. The Extraction Speakeasy is intentionally small in scale and structured in its operations. Guests will enter through the retail space, where identification xvill be checked and reservations will be confirmed prior to entry. Alcohol service will begin only after guests are admitted into the lounge and are seated. All guests will remain seated throughout their visit, and standing v%-ill not be permitted. Each reservation will be limited to approximately 90 minutes, allowing for a steady and predictable floe- of guests «without overcrowding. The overall environment will be designed to be quiet. conversational, and structured, supporting a controlled and comfortable setting. MARKET ANALYSIS - HILO & HAWAVI ISLAND Hilo operates within a distinct economic and hospitality environment compared to other areas of Hawaii Island. While the island receives over one million visitors annually, the majority- of resort -based tourism is concentrated on the Nvest side. Hilo 's market is more balanced between local residents, visiting family members, and travelers seeking cultural and nature -based experiences. According to the 2020 Census, Hilo has an estimated population of 44,186 residents, while Ha«,aii County as a whole has a population exceeding 200,000. Hawaii Island receives over 1.7 million visitors annually, with tourism activity on the east side driven by attractions such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and events like the Merrie Monarch Festival. Within Hilo, the existing bar and nightlife landscape is largely composed of casual, open environments that rely on walk-in traffic and higher guest turnover. There is limited presence of structured, reservation -based cocktail lounges or low -capacity venues focused on controlled service. This `will create a clear opportunity for Extraction Speakeasy, which will offer a smaller, more controlled alternative that complements the existing market rather than competing directly with it.