Jason Momoa honored his childhood by featuring his favorite Hawaiian restaurant, Zippy’s, in the movie The Wrecking Crew. The actor shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE on January 29 that including Zippy’s on screen was a deeply personal moment, tied to fond memories with his family.
Momoa said,
“So I got to put in my favorite local favorite and it’s in the movie. That’s when I knew I made it. We’re in the menu. So every time, when I was a kid, I would land and see my dad and we’d go straight to Zippy’s. So it’s something that’s very dear to me, and we put it in the movie.”
His co-star Dave Bautista remarked on Momoa’s enthusiasm for the food, noting the contrast with his own dietary restrictions during filming.
“He tore it up. And I was just jealous watching him eat, because nothing on the menu I can eat.”
Background on Zippy’s and Its Cultural Importance
Zippy’s Restaurants is a cherished Hawaii-based chain that opened its doors in 1966. With 26 locations, including one in Las Vegas, the chain is famed for serving hearty local comfort food beloved by residents and visitors alike. The restaurant has attracted the attention of famous figures such as Bruno Mars and former President Barack Obama.
When discussing his favorite dishes, Momoa highlighted his love for traditional Hawaiian flavors, saying,
“My cheat meal is just Hawaiian food, just all the stuff I love. Kahlua pig and lau lau and poi and mac salad.”
Further connecting the chain to the film, a customized Zippy’s Wrecking Crew Pack featuring these local favorites was created for the movie’s universe. Jason Momoa’s roots run deep in both Honolulu and Iowa, born to a Native Hawaiian father and a mother of German, Irish, and Pawnee descent. His upbringing shaped much of his identity and creative outlook.
Momoa’s Perspective on Hawaiian Representation in Hollywood
Speaking to SCREEN in August 2025, Momoa expressed frustration with Hollywood’s portrayal of Hawaii, emphasizing the gap between his experience and the images often shown on screen.
“Hollywood has always portrayed Hawaii like a postcard. It’s a bit different from what I know. We’re obviously talking about the past, which a lot of people don’t know. Even speaking of the modern times when I was growing up, I don’t identify with anything about Hawaii that’s been put out there. It’s a bit of false advertising.”
Momoa’s childhood was marked by his parents’ divorce, which led to his move from Hawaii to Iowa with his mother. These experiences contributed to his nuanced understanding of identity and culture.
What This Means for Authentic Cultural Representation
Including Zippy’s in The Wrecking Crew is more than a nostalgic nod—it reflects Jason Momoa’s determination to bring genuine Hawaiian culture into mainstream media. His efforts highlight the importance of accurate and heartfelt portrayals of Native Hawaiian life and traditions, pushing back against stereotypical imagery.
As Momoa continues to take on roles like those in the Apple TV series Chief of War—which focuses on the historic unification of Hawaii—audiences can expect his work to offer thoughtful insight into Hawaiian history and identity, rooted in his own heritage and experiences.
#TheWreckingCrew is Bad Boys takes Hawaii with Mortal Kombat level Violence! Brutal, action packed, hilarious cheesy one liners (that always will make you laugh, & incredible chemistry between Momoa and Bautista!
I’d watch 5 more of these! Thank you Angel Manuel Soto! pic.twitter.com/JjbWJjAlgF
— Zach Pope (@popetheking) January 28, 2026
