Mo' Bettahs Expands to 3 New Markets, Reports 18th Straight Year of Sales Growth

The Hawaiian-style fast-casual brand continues its national expansion and sustained financial performance.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:22am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a clean, monochromatic background with a carefully arranged display of premium, polished objects that symbolize the authentic Hawaiian flavors and traditions of the Mo' Bettahs brand, such as a gleaming cast-iron skillet, a bundle of fresh sugarcane, and a stack of wooden serving trays.Mo' Bettahs' continued expansion and financial success reflect the brand's unwavering dedication to authentic Hawaiian cuisine and culture.Indianapolis Today

Mo' Bettahs, a Hawaiian-style fast-casual restaurant chain, has announced plans to enter three new major markets - Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis - as part of a corporate-led, multi-unit expansion strategy. Alongside this growth, the brand reported positive same-store sales growth for the 18th consecutive year, marking nearly two decades of sustained momentum in the industry.

Why it matters

Mo' Bettahs' ability to maintain guest loyalty and scale its operations effectively while staying true to its authentic Hawaiian roots is a notable accomplishment in the competitive fast-casual sector. The brand's continued expansion and financial performance demonstrate its potential to bring the flavors and traditions of the islands to more communities across the country.

The details

With nearly 80 restaurants currently operating nationwide, Mo' Bettahs is poised for significant continued expansion throughout 2026. This trajectory is guided by a disciplined growth strategy that prioritizes operational consistency and long-term performance. The brand was founded by Hawai'i-born brothers Kimo and Kalani Mack, who wanted to bring the genuine flavors and traditions of the islands to the mainland. The menu centers on Hawaiian barbecue favorites, rooted in the beloved plate lunch tradition, including teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, and authentic sides like white rice and macaroni salad.

  • Mo' Bettahs was founded in 2008.
  • The brand has reported positive same-store sales growth for the past 18 consecutive years.
  • The new market expansions into Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis are planned for 2026.

The players

Mo' Bettahs

A Hawaiian-style fast-casual restaurant chain that was founded in 2008 by Hawai'i-born brothers Kimo and Kalani Mack. The brand is known for its authentic island-inspired cuisine and has nearly 80 locations nationwide.

Rob Ertmann

The CEO of Mo' Bettahs, who has overseen the brand's disciplined growth strategy and operational consistency, leading to 18 consecutive years of same-store sales growth.

Kimo Mack

The co-founder of Mo' Bettahs, who along with his brother Kalani, wanted to bring the genuine flavors and traditions of the Hawaiian islands to the mainland through the brand's menu and concept.

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What they’re saying

“Eighteen consecutive years of same-store sales growth is rare in this industry, and it doesn't happen by accident. It reflects disciplined execution, the quality and authenticity of our menu, and the loyalty of our guests. As we enter these new markets, we're scaling with focus and protecting the standards and values that have defined Mo' Bettahs since it began in 2008.”

— Rob Ertmann, CEO of Mo' Bettahs

“We didn't create Mo' Bettahs to follow a trend. It was built on the recipes and culture we grew up with, cooking alongside our parents and aunties in the backyard. Bringing authentic plate lunch and Aloha to the mainland isn't a strategy for us. It's who we are.”

— Kimo Mack, Co-founder of Mo' Bettahs

What’s next

As Mo' Bettahs moves into Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis, the brand will continue to focus on introducing its distinctive island-style cuisine to more communities while maintaining the quality and authenticity that has defined it since its founding.

The takeaway

Mo' Bettahs' ability to sustain 18 consecutive years of same-store sales growth while expanding into new markets is a testament to the brand's commitment to authenticity, operational excellence, and guest loyalty. The brand's expansion demonstrates the enduring appeal of its Hawaiian-inspired cuisine and culture, which it aims to share with more communities across the country.