Legendary cocktail experience. My partner and I frequent a lot of top 50 bars across the world and…read moreBar Leather Apron operates at that level. The drinks are well balanced and have a lot of Japanese flavor influence (i.e shisho, matcha, yuzu). Presentation and breakdown of each drink component was exceptional; it is clear that the mixologists understand the nuances of their ingredients and the techniques they employ. Special shout out to Scotty for taking care of us tonight. Excited to come back again :)

Months before my trip to Oahu, I tried to book a reservation to Bar Leather Apron but was unable to…read moredo so because the reservations were immediately scooped up right as they were released. To my surprise, on a Sunday evening after having dinner nearby at Maze, my wife and I walked over to Bar Leather Apron and we were able to get seated right away! In fact, around 7:30 p.m. when we stopped by, there was actually a ton of seating available in the bar. Who would've guessed. If you're in the same boat as me and are unable to find a reservation for your upcoming visit, I would encourage you to stop by and try a walk-in. The first page of the menu lists a wide variety of whiskey based cocktails. Most -- if not all, of the cocktails are pre-fixed with BLA (Bar Leather Apron), and represent a collaboration with the named distillery. If you're fan of whiskey, you'll definitely have a difficult time picking only one. I ultimately ordered their "Take Warning" -- 2021 BLA Knob Creek BLA Single Barrel, Cynar, Carpano Antica, Mezcal, Bergamot Salt. Drinks here are not cheap -- averaging $20 to $25 per drink. Although my drink was very spirit forward, it still felt very well balanced. I appreciated the hint of smokiness from the mezcal that rounded out the end of a sip. Service here quick and friendly. When we received the check, a cute small chocolate snack was brought over as well, borrowed from the menu at Maze. Overall, I can see why Bar Leather Apron has earned so many accolades in its field. Definitely worth a stop by if you enjoy the art of mixology.

Super chill spot in Chinatown.......the ambiance, the music,…read morethe super cute and friendly bartender (Jen). And the most delicious cocktails ever. Highly recommend and should have taken some photo evidence, next time!

Fifteen minutes west of Waikiki, you'll find yourself in a completely different Hawaii…read more Honolulu's Chinatown feels worlds away from the beachfront resorts and postcard-perfect sunsets. The neighborhood is vibrant, gritty, and alive--a mix of Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Native Hawaiian influences layered over historic buildings, glowing neon signs, art galleries, and hidden cocktail dens. It reminded me a bit of New Orleans: worn facades with stories to tell, creative energy around every corner, and the sense that the best experiences are often tucked behind an unassuming door. Which makes it the perfect home for EP Bar. "EP" stands for Extend Play, a fitting name for a place built around music. Long before listening bars became fashionable in Los Angeles, New York, and London, there were the jazz kissa of Japan--small cafés where people gathered not to drink or dance, but to listen. Records spun through carefully tuned sound systems while patrons sat immersed in the music. The music wasn't background noise. It was the main event. Walking into EP Bar, you can feel traces of that tradition. The room is intimate and inviting. Reservations are highly recommended because the place fills up quickly on weekend nights. Once inside, the atmosphere hits a sweet spot. The music is loud enough to create a mood and provide privacy for conversation, yet never so overpowering that it dominates the room. Loud enough to muffle the secrets being shared between old friends. Loud enough to drown out the office gossip that somehow followed everyone from the coffee machine into happy hour. The soundtrack isn't just playing--it's setting the tone. As an Old Fashioned guy, my choice was easy. I ordered a Oaxaca OF, which swaps traditional whiskey for mezcal. Smoky, balanced, and memorable, it felt like the kind of drink that rewards slow sipping between tracks. Another member of our group went with the Pho Us By Us. To nobody's surprise except perhaps her own, it tasted a little salty. Considering the ingredients--Green Chile Vodka, Sake, Pho Spice, Lemon, and Soda--it was probably the most honest cocktail description I've ever seen. The drink tasted exactly like its name suggested. That's part of the fun here. The menu doesn't hide behind clever marketing. Drinks like Thai Me Down and Candy Rain practically dare you to order them. Not every note landed perfectly. Service was a little off-beat during our visit. But like any live performance, sometimes the rhythm isn't flawless. Thankfully, the vibes, decor, music, and overall experience more than carried the set. What I appreciated most was that EP Bar doesn't feel like a gimmick. It feels like a genuine continuation of a tradition that began decades ago in Japan's listening cafés, traveled across oceans, and found a home in Honolulu's Chinatown. It's a place where music matters, conversation flows, and the pace of the evening slows down just enough to appreciate both. The place slaps for what it is--and for what it isn't. In a world increasingly filled with distractions, EP Bar invites you to do something refreshingly simple: sit down, have a great drink, listen to great music, and be present. I'll definitely be back. After all, every good record deserves another spin, and I'm curious to see how the needle lands next time.

Here's a slightly tightened version with the same meaning but more concise:…read more We've been to Upstairs 38 twice now and really enjoyed both visits. The escargot is absolutely amazing and something we'll keep coming back for. My wife loves oysters, and we appreciated how fresh they are since they're brought in regularly. Unfortunately, they didn't have them available on our second visit, which was one of the main reasons we returned -- but we understand that comes with fresh product. We love anything tuna, so we tried the tuna tartare appetizer, but it wasn't our favorite. The lobster bisque was decent but pretty average. The Caesar salad was really good, though we'd recommend extra dressing. On our first visit, the steaks were incredible. On our second visit, we tried the sliders and fries instead, and both were really good -- simple but well done. Our second visit was especially memorable because we sat at the bar with Jeremy, our bartender. He was fantastic -- friendly, welcoming, and made the experience feel more personal. He even let me try a new cocktail they're developing, which was a great touch. Desserts were good but didn't quite have the "wow" factor for us. Jeremy recommended a nearby dessert spot that ended up being excellent -- we actually brought him dessert back to thank him. It meant a lot he didn't try to sell us on desserts and instead recommended a local spot. The happy hour menu was also a highlight -- really solid options, and we ended up ordering several items from it. Our tab before tip was under $100, which felt like great value for the quality Overall, super friendly staff, great atmosphere, and definitely a place we'll keep coming back to.

Looking for a dinner date in celebration of whatever occasion? Either day or night, looking over…read morethe pier, and always an amazing experience here. And make sure you're using OpenTables to book a reservation. Food is always great. Ask for the Chef special and some nights there are %off on Wines.

I forgot to take a photo here but this place is pretty legendary and one of the cooler speakeasies…read moreI've been to. Super dope vending machine entrance and very interactive with the coin. The interior was also well designed but I wish our group was sat in a different area of the bar. We got sat in this one corner and it was dark with like translucent lights, kinda like Jinx's lair from Arcane. Idk just wished we sat somewhere else with more light and visibility of the bar. The drinks were pretty good. It's a large menu and honestly I wanted to try multiple drinks but can't be getting all drunk and stuff you know the vibes. Also I know it's unrelated to this establishment but it's next to a billiards hall and that was legendary. Great vibe, great place, highly recommend.

Super cool speakeasy in Ala Moana…read more It was a bit confusing on how to get here, but if your Lyft drops you off at 24 Hour Fitness, go up to the 2nd level, walk out into the parking garage & go across to Brian's. Brian's was an interesting vibe. There is security out front, dark, several pool tables, other sections I did not explore & then, Wild Orange. The entire area was kind of sketchy. Wild Orange, fortunately, was a cool spot. Friendly bartenders. Japanese inspired cocktails, anime & pinball machine art.

Some places you find, others you have to earn, and 430 Parkway is one you'd miss if you weren't…read morelooking for it. Tucked on the second floor of a Piikoi Parkway building, it feels like stepping back in time, a true bespoke bar with vintage art, moody lighting, and comfy couches that make it perfect for couples or a night out with friends. We sat at the bar, which was a highlight, Michael and Tony were welcoming, easy to talk story with, and clearly know their craft. I went with the Barreled Old Man, a smooth, layered mix of bourbon, rye, and brandy that just worked, while my wife's Sesame Veil brought a nutty, balanced flavor that stood out. For round two, the Espressing My Love was a great take on an espresso martini, and Michael built my wife a custom drink off her favorite flavors and nailed it again. We paired it with the smoked mozzarella and salami grilled cheese and Ho Farms tomato soup, and this is where it really hit. The sandwich came out hot and crisp, and when you took a bite the cheese pulled away just right, that perfect melt, with the salami adding a savory kick. The tomato soup was fresh, bright, and made for dipping you didn't want to stop. We were welcomed with a table that had our name on it, a small touch that goes a long way. Prices are on point for the quality and experience you're getting. It's a bit of a hidden, hip spot, not for a quick drink but for when you want to sit, relax, and enjoy it. Parking is tight, but you can park at Ala Moana and walk over, and it's worth it. Next time we're coming back for Grandma's Old Fashioned and the pork belly bao buns. This isn't a bar you stumble into, it's one you come back to.

I went here for my birthday and didn't realize I should've made a reservation for a larger group,…read moreespecially since it was my first time. Thankfully, Michael and his team were able to accommodate us, which I really appreciated. From the moment we walked in, the place had a great vibe, the interior is beautiful. Throughout the night, the staff and Michael (the owner) were incredibly welcoming, funny and attentive. The cocktails were amazing. I had the expressing my love all night and even though the place was busy and there was a bit of a wait for food, it was honestly worth it. We had the crab dynamite, the ahi brioche, and the prosciutto and burrata. SO GOOD! My friends and I had such a great time and will definitely be back.

We travel for tiki... Skull & Crown did not disappoint! Great ambiance in a traditional tiki space…read morethat is welcoming and inviting. The escapism is just what we had hoped for. Best background music too! Lots of classic and modern exotica. Sat at the bar so we could watch all the drinks being made and so happy we did. Making tiki drinks is an art form as so much goes into them. We had a Navy Grog, King Kō Swizzle, and the non-alcoholic Sunset Passion. All of them were so delicious and it was fun to have the Navy Grog with the traditional ice cone! Attention to detail was obvious as was the quality of ingredients and rum! Everyone working was very sweet and it was just good vibes all around We did not eat but they do have a full restaurant and what we saw people ordering all looked yummy Highly recommend when you're in town; a wonderful place to get away from the hustle of Waikiki and enjoy a local gem

It's rare to find a craft cocktail bar with food that's as good as the cocktails, but Crown and…read moreSkull is it! A very chill tiki vibe with great service from Jason, whose recs were spot on. Everything was good, but stars of the show: - Hanalei Moon, a mild coconut cream piña colada - Dagger, a mystery mai tai with notes you've ever tried before - Ahi Katsu, paired with pickled onions that perfectly cut the fried exterior

This is an order at the register and find a table kind of place. That said, if you want to eat and…read moredrink at the bar, sit and order from the bartender (decent selection of local beers). We got the blackened fish sandwich and the beef stew. Of the two, the beef stew is better. Also next to the restaurant is a fish market where you can get poke or sashimi. Not bad.

Although the menu is a bit limited and ranging from almost 25 bucks for fish and d chips to almost…read more40 for a little steak, this place has always been a treat to stop in just for the usually excellent service and the fresh quality of all presentation. So, when a hair was found in my daughters cheesecake it was a bit shocking! The waiter recognized the grotesque error in production and immediately ask is she wolike another slice. She agreed and was presented with the hair free 8.50 version. It is common practice to not only provide the option of replacing the product for the customer but to remove the charge for the hair laced food from the bill. This action not only expresses the restaurants remorse but signifies their desire to keep you as a returning customer. Unfortunately this did not occur nor was any Kama' Aina discount applied (resident discount). Curious to know if the assumption that we, African Americans, are not aware of the rights a d wrongs in the service industry. Nonetheless, as a travel provider for tourists here in Hawaii, I will not longer recommend or refer tourists to Nico's pier 38 from this day forward. So sad. I expected more from this Honolulu establishment.

Love this patio bar located on Hotel Street, next to Bar 35. It's up a super steep flight of…read morestairs. My first thought was hmmm... if someone's really drunk it could be tragic. Anyways when you get to the top it's like being in another city (ok that's seriously what I think...) it's beautiful! There's an indoor section and an outdoor rooftop with greenery on the walls. Seating outside and inside is beautiful. We went around sunset, sat outside and there was a nice city feel outside with buildings all around. I loved it. When the sunset the lighting outside on the patio beautiful & relaxing. I don't drink but I love food and it was good, perfect pupus! We had the charcuterie board, fries, and a few others. Huge plus, they had mocktails!!! Service was good. The bartender was knowledgeable about the menu and drinks & gave recommendations. He even made hot water for my friends at the end. It wasn't crowded - like we were the only ones there. We stayed for awhile talking and it was comfortable and relaxing!!! I would've never known this beautiful place existed on Hotel Street. It's really an amazing relaxing experience. Parking: we parked in the municipal parking lot by Hawai'i Theatre.

After a celebratory dinner nearby, Birthday Boy wanted cake. What better place to share it, at a…read morewine bar! Our server was gracious in helping us pick a bottle of red that paired well with our mocha cake. He offered us a spacious table with comfortable seating for our group of 8. Thank you kindly for the plates, forks, and napkins :) Their outdoor seating is magical under the stars and we enjoyed celebrating here. Sorry, no pictures this time LOL Careful walking downstairs after a night of fun :)

I absolutely love this place! The decor is beautiful, ornate, and full of thoughtful little details…read morethat make the entire dining experience feel special. The staff is always so friendly and helpful, and they consistently give great recommendations for both food and drinks. I've been here for both brunch and dinner, and while dinner is good, brunch is definitely the standout for me! Their drinks are so inventive and unique -- I always look forward to trying their newest creations. As for the food, everything we ordered was delicious, but the surprise favorites were definitely the pancakes and the chicken and waffles. The pancakes were incredibly flavorful with a subtle smoky touch that made them extra memorable. I'm usually not a huge chicken fan, but I could not get enough of the chicken and waffles. The French toast was also amazing -- rich, custardy, and perfectly done. I can't wait to come back!

What a relief to find a place like this in Hawaii!!! We love all the food here, but to have this…read moreexperience with exceptional British classics on their menu with excellent cocktail combinations that will give you all the cozy comfort feels!!! The English toffee pudding. It's so so hard to find one made with dates. A ton of places call a lava cake with caramel sauce as English toffee pudding which it's not. But this is amazing, and pretty authentic cooking techniques. The cocktail menu is incredible! Their smash burger for lunch is wonderful!!! The brisket burger was very good. Then we had this mushroom bacon toast as an appetizer. We should have ordered two!!! We were basically fighting over it! Service was perfect and the waitstaff was attentive. Food came out fast. This place is so nice and beautiful inside. So lucky to have found this place. Cannot wait for a date night!!

The food and the server were both good. He was pleasant and his explanation on the menu was clear…read moreto understand.

Restaurants is not only good food but the service of the workers is one of the important is…read morecommunication and respect.. that is 100 percent.and that is my experience.