Sama Sama - The Story
Sama Sama began as a middle school dream, inspired by countless afternoons at a local boba shop and a love for the flavors of home. Years later, that dream came to life as a tribute to family, culture, and community, honoring the memory of Mama Loly and the warmth of Filipino traditions. Our mission is simple: to bring people together, one handcrafted drink at a time, using real ingredients and celebrating the vibrant flavors of the Philippines. Our vision is to create moments of togetherness where every sip sparks nostalgia, connection, and a sense of home—elevating Filipino ingredients and culture to the spotlight they deserve.
Meet Lalaine and Eric, the husband-and-wife duo behind Sama Sama, bringing Filipino flavors, family, and community to every handcrafted drink.
Lalaine
Cofounder, Chief Executive Officer
Lalaine’s love for Filipino culture, food, and community has always been at the core of who she is. Inspired by childhood afternoons at boba shops and family gatherings centered around traditional flavors, she built Sama Sama Hawai‘i as a way to share that joy. Today, her vision lives on through a space that celebrates culture, nostalgia, and community coming together in every handcrafted drink and dessert.
Eric
Cofounder, Chief Operations Officer
Eric is the hands-on heart of Sama Sama Hawai’i, running the kitchen and making sure every drink and dessert is crafted to perfection. Off-duty, he’s a die-hard Lakers fan, photography enthusiast, streetwear lover, and avid traveler at heart. Eric’s creativity, curiosity, and focus make him the perfect partner to bring Sama Sama’s vision to life, ensuring every detail of the menu and experience is thoughtfully executed.
Together, Lalaine and Eric dreamed up Sama Sama Hawai’i to share the flavors, stories, and warmth of Filipino culture with their community. From handcrafted boba and barako coffee to Filipino-inspired desserts, they love creating moments that feel like home—one sip, one bite, and one shared memory at a time.
“Sama Sama is more than a business—it’s our way of honoring family, culture, and community. We hope that every visit makes you feel at home and connects you to the rich flavors and stories of the Philippines.”
— Lalaine & Eric
To bring people together, one handcrafted drink at a time, sharing the flavors, stories, and warmth of Filipino culture.
To elevate Filipino ingredients and culture, creating a space where every sip sparks connection, nostalgia, and a sense of home.
Bringing people together, one drink at a time.
Our Boba Truck —
Bringing Filipino flavor to every pop-up.
The Sama Sama boba truck is more than a mobile café—it’s a gathering place on wheels. From handcrafted drinks to Filipino flavors, we bring people together wherever we go.
Our Cafe —
Where culture and campus meet.
Our Sama Sama café inside the library is a cozy spot to sip, study, and connect. It’s extra special because it’s at the same college where Lalaine’s mom once studied—bringing family memories and Filipino flavors together for the community.
Downtown —
Your quick stop for a taste of home.
Located in the heart of downtown, our walk-up café brings Filipino flavors and handcrafted drinks to the busy streets. It’s the perfect stop for a quick sip, a sweet treat, and a little nostalgia.
Catering/Events —
Handcrafted drinks and desserts for any occasion.
Our catering brings the taste of the Philippines to your celebrations. Handcrafted drinks, real ingredients, and Filipino-inspired desserts create a unique experience that sparks connection and togetherness. Perfect for parties, corporate events, or any gathering, Sama Sama makes every event feel like home.