The Best Bars in Honolulu Right Now
Given our bent towards traditional cocktails modified to incorporate fresh, local flavors, Honolulu is one of the best cities in America to go out for a drink. In other words, folks in Oahu’s state capital experience one of the best problems ever: being spoiled for choice. So we rounded up the best of the best -- from one of our wonderful new and trendy openings to some of the all-time best watering holes -- to help you figure out the best spots to grab a drink tonight.
Jump to: NEW & NOTEWORTHY | ALL-TIME BEST
WorkPlay
KakaakoCoworking coffee shop by day, trendy bar by night
WorkPlay is not located in the shiny, hipster area typically associated with Kakaako. It’s a few blocks away, and a diamond in the rough. Reserve one of the four themed private rooms (the Whisky Library is our fave) and enjoy a stellar selection of local craft beers, or explore its creative cocktail options. Try the Instagram-worthy Dragon’s Bouquet (featuring local Paradise Cider’s Killah Dragon) or the kick-you-in-the-teeth Jury Duty (a zing of tequila and spices plus a hint of triple sec with cinnamon). Most evenings feature talented live musicians who set the mood, or check out Monday’s live band karaoke if you want to practice your singing chops.
Skull & Crown Trading Co.
DowntownA tiki bar for the modern age
The quirky decor of Skull & Crown Trading Co. transports you back to the time of the oh-so-popular tiki bar. Besides the evocative ambiance, this spot boasts a large list of specialty cocktails that fit the theme perfectly. Be sure to sample the Dole Float Rum Float, which is an adult take on what everyone raves about at Disneyland. Our favorite is the Trader Noa, an Old Fashioned that is paired with smoking kiawe wood -- both smooth and smoky.
Moani Island Bistro & Bar
KapoleiA local spot on the West side with delicious food and solid drinks
If you find yourself parched and hungry and hankering to listen to some live music on the West side of Oahu, this is your spot. Food is ordered family-style -- share generous serving sizes with your tablemates. But what about the libations, you ask? The Lilikoi Dutch Mule is a nice update on the typical Moscow Mule, with the bright tartness of the lilikoi (aka passion fruit). Try the Mimosa Colada for a bubbly pineapple delight.
Hana Koa Brewing
KakaakoA converted Coca-Cola syrup factory now creates delicious brews
Brand spanking new, Hana Koa Brewing is the latest addition to the local craft beer hub in Kakaako. The bright and airy space has tons of seating, and even has a second area located upstairs that would be perfect for a large gathering. The four-beer flight is the way to go if you like sampling before committing. Try the latest in its Kettle Run Series, a guava sour that showcases that ubiquitous local fruit, or a coffee stout called Espresso Your Inner Bean. You can’t go wrong with any of the food choices, like pickled onion rings or smoked marlin toast. Save room for dessert -- remember that coffee stout we mentioned earlier? The beer float is a fun adult dessert option that will be the perfect nightcap.
Haus Supper Club
Ala MoanaA club to eat, drink, dance, and sing karaoke all under one roof
Located in Ala Moana Shopping Center, Haus Supper Club is a great place to rest your feet and recharge with yummy food and drinks. The best part? Happy hour last from 4:30-7:30pm every day. You heard me, you can get yourself a couple $5 mimosas and cocktails and still be within budget, honey! Check out the speakeasy sushi bar through the red phone booth or gather a bunch of friends and rent a private karaoke room. The bar turns into a club at 10pm Fridays and Saturdays, so bring your dancing shoes if you’re in the mood.
Off The Wall Craft Beer & Wine
Est. 2018 | WardSouth American cuisine with a self-serve drink wall
A nice addition to South Shore Market shopping area, Off The Wall Craft Beer & Wine offers support for indecisive people. You can sample a bunch of different drinks before getting that full-size pour, or just try them all throughout your meal. All beer, wine, cider, and kombucha are made locally in Hawaii and rotate frequently. The food menu blends South American flavors with local Hawaiian items (e.g. breadfruit hummus and mahi ceviche). After you order your food, your server will allow you to select a card from the deck and, if you choose the joker, your food bill is on the house!
The HI Brau Room
Est. 2017 | KakaakoSpeakeasy above a popular brewery, only open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Hidden above Aloha Beer Company, The HI Brau Room has that dimly lit, intimate feeling -- making it the perfect date spot. Delicious carefully crafted cocktails and a wide collection of quality liquor arrive on a beautiful black napkin with The HI Brau Room gold embossed for that extra touch of class. The Smoker In The Rye cocktail is a twist on an Old Fashioned, and comes in a lychee and wood-smoked glass. Order any of the boards or fries, and you’ll be set.
Hideout at the Laylow
Est. 2017 WaikikiIndoor/outdoor rooftop coffee shop/bar/restaurant in a boutique hotel
Maybe this mid-century oasis sounds a little too good to be true: Stumptown coffee, artisanal cocktails, and a menu packed with fresh, Pacific Rim cuisine, without jam-packed crowds? The open-air, low-key eatery doesn’t disappoint with its craft cocktails either. Find updated classics like the Mai Taime, which is their take on the ever-popular mai tai, but mixed with Old Lahaina Silver, Myers Dark rum, lime, house-made orgeat, tiki bitters, and a fluffy lilikoi foam. Or make new favorites like the Lime in the Coconut, a citrusy and refreshing blend of lime and coconut, of course, and mixed with Old Lahaina rum and mango boba.
Grace in Growlers
Est. 2016 | KailuaA non-profit craft beer tasting room with a purpose
There are several unique aspects about Grace In Growlers. First and foremost, 100-percent of the profits go to the owner’s non-profit, One Ninety Nine, which provides support to local homeless. Also, once you obtain the wristband (which is set up to connect to your credit card), you can serve yourself from the automatic wall dispenser. Next, it’s BYOF (food, that is)! Choose what you feel like from nearby restaurants, like Kono’s or Pieology). Plus, comfortable seating makes it feel just like Grandma’s house -- and, just like Grandma would want, there is a 36-ounce limit per person, so choose your tastings wisely.
Moku Kitchen
Est. 2016 | KakaakoLaid-back urban restaurant and bar with locally sourced libations
Not only is Peter Merriman’s Moku Kitchen known for being focused on locally sourced food, but this place is also home to a 46-foot bar that boasts 36 craft beers as well as a unique keg wine system that offers 12 biodynamic and sustainable wines on tap. Happy hour is daily from 3pm-5:30pm featuring drink specials and 50% off all apps (with the exception of items with raw fish). It’s a great time to try the Monkeypod Mai Tai, which is well-balanced with a touch of tart flavor from the honey-lilikoi foam, or one of those perfectly chilled -- 29 degrees Fahrenheit -- beers on tap. With live music every day, it’s a great place to bring a group.
Piggy Smalls
Est. 2016 | WardCasual eatery with a small, but satisfying, cocktail list
The sister restaurant to the popular Pig & the Lady, this global-inspired eatery offers a curated cocktail menu to compliment its family-style brunch, lunch, and dinner offerings. In addition to beer, wine, and house-made non-alcoholic beverages, you’ll find crafted mixed adult beverages like the Summer Breeze, a refreshingly sweet cocktail made with Hawaii sochu, fresh watermelon and hellfire bitters, or the smoky Play with Fire, made with bonded bourbon whiskey, peach, charred lemon, and fresh orange juice. The highlight of the cocktail list, however, is its slushy of the month -- a rotating, house-made slushy mixed with your choice of tequila, vodka, gin, or rum.
Mahina & Sun's
Est. 2016 | WaikikiLocal flavors in a retro boutique hotel
Ed Kenney’s fourth establishment keeps in line with his motto of utilizing the best ingredients Oahu has to offer. Mahina & Sun’s craft cocktails list is small but doesn’t disappoint, with tasty options like the Lavender Rub, a boozy and refreshing mix of sherry and lavender bitters (but without an overpowering lavender flavor). The Market Special offers an alternative to their traditional list with a cocktail of the day. The mid-century modern interior provides a nostalgic ambiance while sipping their classic cocktails with a modern twist.
Beer Lab HI
Est. 2016 | MoiliiliRelaxing brew bar with local flavors
This new-ish spot near the University of Hawaii offers locally brewed craft beers that are made in small batches with some unique flavor profiles (e.g., li hing pineapple, basil lemongrass thai chili). Plus, it’s another BYOF establishment even though they also sell a small menu of appetizers, so you can bring in snacks to pair with different brewed treats. Trivia nights, Scrabble, and Cards Against Humanity all add to the chill, laid-back vibe here.
Tchin Tchin Bar
Est. 2016 | ChinatownComfortable rooftop lounge for the wine and cocktail lovers
This is a place to enjoy a cozy, indoor atmosphere complete with brick walls and comfy leather couches, or get a breath of fresh air out on the patio where the fern-adorned wall brings a bit of relief from the otherwise concrete urban jungle. No matter where you end up sitting, you’re in for a treat -- the Tchin Tchin Bar not only has an extensive wine list, but also offers cocktails and a handful of carefully selected beer and ciders. Small food dishes are perfect accompaniments to stinky cheeses, fancy cured meats, salty olives, and more.
Bar Leather Apron
Est. 2016 | DowntownHonolulu’s largest whiskey collection, housed in an intimate space
The warm wood and leather tones in Bar Leather Apron make it the perfect place to sip on seriously beautiful cocktails. Bartender Justin Park’s award-winning E Ho’o Pau Mai Tai is definitely not your average mai tai. It arrives covered in a glass bell and is infused with kiawe smoke. Asian flavors, such as shiso, yuzu, lemongrass, and matcha have been magically incorporated into a variety of oh-so-delicious cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome, but definitely email ahead for reservations.
SKY Waikiki
Est. 2015 | WaikikiThe same Waikiki sunsets, but from a rooftop bar and nightclub
If not for anything else, you need to visit Sky Waikiki for a better look at the Hawaii sunset. From 19 stories above Waikiki, you can sit and enjoy nature’s beauty in the outdoor seating area with a drink in hand. The cocktail menu has interesting beverage options, such as the It’s the Magic of Polynesia (hibiscus-infused Koloa coconut rum, Flor de Cana rum, Kahlua, pineapple, and lime). If money ain’t no thang, there’s always bottle service for big groups looking to celebrate. For those on a tighter budget, check out the happy hours from Wednesday to Sunday, 5pm-7pm.
Mud Hen Water
Est. 2015 | KaimukiTrendy neighborhood restaurant with cocktails and donuts
Ed Kenney’s Mud Hen Water is known for its delicious twists on traditional Hawaiian food using locally sourced ingredients, but it also has some really yummy drinks. The Grapefruit Snap is delightfully bright, with a nice joining of vodka, grapefruit, ginger syrup, mint, and soda. If you’re up for something a little different, try the Kitchen Cocktail, the bartender’s concoction, which rotates daily.
BREW'd Craft Pub
Est. 2014 | KaimukiThe ideal spot for impressing craft beer lovers
Brew’d gives gastropubs a good name with great food and a large variety of beer. With over a dozen beers on tap and literally hundreds of bottles, it’s a beer lover’s dream. And if that leaves you in a tizzy, the helpful staff can help you narrow down the options, or you can pay for four-ounce samples. Not to worry if you don’t care for beer, Brew’d has some delicious beer cocktails that incorporate other liquors and taste delicious! The Half a Weizen is part St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, part fresh squeezed orange juice, and part German hefeweizen -- it’s light and crisp and oh-so-delicious.
Honolulu Beerworks
Est. 2014 | KakaakoUnpretentious pau hana brewpub
This neighborhood brewpub opened in 2014, but it’s already hard to picture the island’s adult beverage landscape without it. One of the first craft breweries on the island, it includes two outdoor beer gardens and open-air tables, making it a relaxing casual stop to hang out with friends and sip locally made beer. Beerworks uses local and imported ingredients, barrel-aging them in the brewing process to make seasonal ales, saisons, stouts, IPAs, porters, and limited-editions, which they serve as build-your-own flights, in pints, or filled in growlers to-go.
The Pig and The Lady
Est. 2013 | ChinatownVietnamese-fusion restaurant with equally impressive cocktails
This former pop-up has become a trendy, critically acclaimed spot for Vietnamese cuisine that lives up to every bit of its hype. The Chinatown brick-and-mortar storefront is a family affair, owned and operated by the Le family that uses "Mama" Le's family recipes as the basis for their most popular dishes. The cocktail offerings don’t disappoint either. Try the eye-catching and palate-quenching Cobra Commander, made with avocado mezcal, a Sriracha ice cube, pamplemousse rose, and lime -- a spicy and smooth accompaniment to its fusion dishes. The downtown eatery is closed on holidays, but stop by its sister restaurant Piggy Smalls from 10am-3pm for your fusion cocktail needs.
Bevy
Est. 2013 | KakaakoEuropean-style cocktails with a gloriously long happy hour
The ambience in Bevy is dark meets industrial, but the food and drink offerings are refined and refreshing. Try Christian Self’s Mai Thai, a twist on the traditional mai tai, but mixed with lemongrass and a candied ginger foam, which is sweet. Or the Tequila Mockingbird, a spicy combination of tequila, ancho chili, papaya, and turmeric -- it goes down smooth and fast. Plus, you can’t beat the $1.50 happy hour oysters and $5 cocktails every Tuesday-Saturday 4-7pm.
Pint + Jigger
Est. 2012 | MoiliiiDimly lit whiskey and beer bar with extensive drink list
Leave the car at home because you’re most likely going to want to try everything here. The bar boasts 20 beers on tap (which are constantly changing), a revolving cocktail on draft, at least 40 beer bottles, wine craft cocktails and a whiskey list so long it’ll make you weep tears of joy. For cocktails, try the powerful 5th Amendment, made with bourbon, chartreuse, fernet, and lilikoi bitters, poured over a spherical cube of ice. During brunch, you can spice up your chicken and waffles with a Kim Chee Who!, a Bloody Mary with a healthy kick of Sriracha, or opt for the signature Bloody Mary, served with a slice of bacon.
Wang Chung's
Est. 2009 | WaikikiLGBT-friendly karaoke bar with specialty cocktails
There’s something about public karaoke that only a good dose of liquid courage can assist. And Wang Chung’s sure does a good job of having tasty drinks. The Yuzu Me, Please is a fun pairing of yuzu jelly, house-made ginger lemon fizz, Thai tea, and vodka, and the Lychee Co-tini brings together the light milkiness of Calpico and lychee vodka and pear. Visit Wang Chung’s on Sunday 10am-1pm for brunch, where you can order mimosas by the pitcher with various fruit flavors.
RumFire
Est. 2008 | WaikikiThe epitome of a Waikiki beachfront bar
RumFire at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is one of the best bars for gorgeous views of the water, Diamond Head, and sunset. By day, sit inside on comfortable lounge furniture, at the bar, or outdoors near the fire pits and sip cocktails highlighting local Hawaiian flavors, such as the Guava Lemonade carafe and the Lilikoi Cosmo. RumFire also offers Spiked Afternoon Tea every day from 1-4pm, which is decidedly a step up from the traditional English version. There are four tea cocktails to choose from -- Sweet Energy, Plantation Pineapple, Ginger Peach Green Tea, and RumFire’s House Tea. On weeknights, watch the sunset on the water with live music as your backdrop. On Friday and Saturday nights, the oceanfront lounge transforms into a beachside nightclub with live DJs, cabana rentals, and bottle service available.
Amuse Wine Bar
Est. 2007 | Ala MoanaWine on tap hidden in a furniture store
Amuse Wine Bar is the place to be if you enjoy drinking and sampling all kinds of wine. The premise is simple -- load up a wine card with money and then take your glass and pick out any wine you want from the 80 self-dispensing kiosks. It’s a pretty swanky place, perfect for a date night or a girls’ night out. Go ahead, treat yourself -- you deserve it.
8 Fat Fat 8
MakikiHole-in-the-wall with wallet-friendly prices and karaoke
You shouldn't judge this bar by its exterior. It’s located along Beretania Street and looks like an average dive from the outside. And, yes -- it looks like an average dive on the inside, too. But it’s so much more: pool tables, dart boards, karaoke, and to top it all off, great drink specials, and broke da mouth Chinese food (get the Fat Fat Special Chicken, you won’t regret it). Plus, they show all of the University of Hawaii football games that aren’t on TV for free.
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