A Sandwich for the Soul

Raised in Hawaii, there are a few restaurants still around that I went to as a child and continue to go to as an adult. One of those places is Anna Miller’s in Pearlridge Center, which has become a landmark in Aiea, conveniently located at the corner of Kamehameha Highway and Kaonohi Street.

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year (the restaurant never closes — there are no locks on the door), Anna Miller’s is known for its breakfast, homemade pies, fast and friendly service, as well as good food and value.

Anna Miller’s lunch and dinner menus (both are available all day) featuring a variety of American classics and local favorites, plus a long list of sandwich options, including eight variations of The Club House ($10.99).

The most popular Club House is No. 5 — avocado, turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomato. The tasty triple decker on toast also comes with a choice of two sides: cole slaw, macaroni salad, fries, potato salad or rice.

Also popular is Pastrami Reuben ($10.99) on grilled rye with pastrami, sauerkraut, swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing, and served with two sides. And new to the “hot sandwich” menu is Chicken Fried Steak ($9.99), the sandwich version of the customer favorite Chicken Fried Steak entree. Just like the classic Southern dish, there’s no chicken on the plate, but rather breaded beef deep-fried to a crispy patty and served with cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo, along with your choice of two sides.

Also famous is the restaurant’s homemade pies. There are more than 20 flavors to choose from, such as Banana Cream Pie, Haupia Chocolate and its signature Fresh Strawberry Pie (seasonal).

For breakfast, Farmer’s Breakfast, benedicts and omelettes are among the top-sellers.

Founded by Stanley Miller, who named the restaurant after his grandmother, the family-friendly 24-hour coffee shop has been open since 1973. Miller also owns Bravo Restaurant and Bar below Anna Miller’s. There also is a newly remodeled Anna Miller’s in Japan, and two Anna Miller’s pie shops in China.

“I think what has made us successful over the years is that customers come in and they know what they’re getting,” says area manager Wade Hashizume. “Our owner looks at breakfast as the ultimate comfort food, and people can come anytime and get it. Our pies are baked fresh daily, and the crust is really good and flaky.

“Also, our philosophy has stayed the same since the beginning — friendly service and great food at a good value. People never leave here not full.”

Anna Miller’s

98-115 Kaonohi St., Aiea
487-2421
Open 24 hours
annamillersrestaurant.com