The Pacific Building located in downtown Hilo is a prominent two-story concrete reinforced structure which carries a physical historic presence and landscape within the core of downtown Hilo and was built during the territory of Hawai‘i. It is the home of Bears Coffee, one of the first businesses that developed the concept of a sidewalk cafe in downtown Hilo. The main building was built in 1922.
Lyman Museum’s records call this the Pacific Hotel with a hotel on the second floor and commercial businesses on the first floor. In 1924 the Hilo Library was a tenant on the first floor and in 1929 a bakery moved in at the corner of Keawe Street. An outdoor oven or smokestack stands in the back could have belonged to the bakery. The Pacific Hotel was still in business in 1942 and served as a gathering place for people travelling on the railroad tracks from Hāmākua and Kona, allowing them overnight eating and resting place, and a library for entertainment, and access to other businesses on the first floor. The commercial property has upkept its image as a community gathering place.
In order to be profitable for owner, tenants and the islanders/tourists have tried to have diverse businesses as tenants – to be a place to shop, eat, sit and meet. Keawe Street is covered with a canopy so shopkeepers put tables and chairs outside, provide free internet and allow people an open-air dining experience. While customers are eating or doing work, some with their pets alongside, others are playing a music and singing, and making new acquaintances. The general feeling is uplifting and community centered.
The 100th anniversary of the Pacific Building in Hilo will be commemorated at the 2022 Preservation Honor Awards Ceremony and Reception on October 20, 2022.