21 Best Bars in Honolulu for Delicious Drinks
From local hangouts to upscale jazz bars, Honolulu comes alive after dark – in a good way, unlike many other American cities. The dynamic capital city is not only home to the nation’s only royal palace but also holds several fun bars with profound drinks, gastronomic food, and live entertainment.
Whether you’re looking for an ocean-side hotel bar on the North Shore or an off-beat Chinatown spot, this comprehensive list has got you covered!
(1) Bar Leather Apron
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 pm – 12:00 am (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5
Location: 745 Fort Street #127a, Honolulu.
Located in downtown Honolulu, Bar Leather Apron is an intimate little spot that seats only six, so try to make reservations ahead of time. They have a nice selection of one-of-a-kind cocktails and spirits.
Why we love this place: All of their drinks are made with the finest liquors and quality ingredients, but the E Ho’o Pau Mai Tai is our favorite. It’s a delicious blend of 5-year-old El Dorado Rum (raisin-infused), spiced orgeat syrup, coconut water syrup, absinthe, lime, and Ohia blossom honey.
(2) EP Bar
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday, 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.9 out of 5
Location: 1150 Nuuanu Avenue Unit A, Honolulu.
EP bar is located right behind the Morning Glass Coffee shop in Chinatown. It’s one of the few bars with state-of-the-art audio equipment that play carefully selected vinyl records, making it a good spot for both booze hounds and music geeks.
Why we love this place: The bar is inspired by the Japanese listening bars of the 1920s. People come here for good whiskey, warm sounds, and their collective love for music. We recommend trying the Pauahi St. Highball, a combination of floral, citrusy gin and fresh lemon and lavender. They have a small selection of snacks too, including beef jerky chips and a meat & cheese plate.
(3) Bevy
Hours of operation: Tuesday & Wednesday, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Thursday, 5:00 pm – 12:00 am; Friday & Saturday, 5:00 pm – 2:00 am (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Location: 675 Auahi Street #130, Honolulu
About: If you’re looking for a “hometown bar” kind of place to meet friendly locals, Bevy is one of the best bars in Honolulu to do that. It’s located at the corner of SALT At Our Kaka’Ako, a shopping center with restaurants, cafes, and retail stores. Bevy offers cocktails made from a wide range of spirits and flavors, as well as a great menu of farm-to-table fare.
Why we love this place: We love their Hawaiian Rum Agricole and Under the Alps (made with whiskey, rosemary smoke, walnut bitters, and amaro). The food is understated but freshly-made and scrumptious.
(4) Lewers Lounge
Hours of operation: Wednesday to Saturday, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am (closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays)
⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5
Location: 2199 Kālia Road, Honolulu.
After a long day of traversing the streets of Waikiki, Lewers Lounge is a great place to sit back and hang out. The ambiance is relaxing, the jazz tunes from talented artists are calming, and the extensive menu of beers, wines, and cocktails is pretty delightful.
Why we love this place: This sophisticated cocktail bar serves quality drinks and their coconut cake is to die for! For couples looking to spend a romantic date night at an upscale club, this will be our top recommendation.
Tip for travelers: They have a dress code so make sure you’re donned up in elegant resort attire; beachwear, tank tops, t-shirts, athleisure, or flip-flops are not allowed.
(5) AnyPlace Cocktail Lounge
Hours of operation: Sunday to Thursday, 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday, 2:00 pm – 12:00 am
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 1018 McCully Street, Honolulu.
About: This is one of the oldest dive bars in Hawaii, having been around since 1978. It’s tucked away on King Street and currently managed by the third-generation bar owner. They have some great bites, including Furikake, Obachan’s Fried Chicken, spam and egg sandwiches, and ranch salads.
Why we love this place: If you’re looking for an non-fancy watering hole with friendly staff and cheap beer, head over to AnyPlace. The vibe is a combination of a western saloon and a sports bar mixed with Hawaiiana. Some of the staff has been here for decades and they are always happy to chat with the patrons.
(6) Hale Koa Barefoot Beach Bar
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Location: 2055 Kālia Road, Honolulu
You’ll find the Barefoot Bar at the Hale Koa Hotel right on the ocean side. They have live music that kicks off every evening, and the relaxed vibe makes it one of the best bars in Honolulu to put your feet up. In addition to a killer view and great service, their drinks are really affordable compared to other beachfront bars.
Why we love this place: They serve no-fuss but super fun cocktails with some light appetizers like onion rings, chicken wings, French fries, and nachos. They don’t serve food but the extensive selection of cocktails is worth a try. We recommend trying the Mai Tai and Mango Flow.
(7) Skull & Crown Trading Co.
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Thursday, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays).
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Location: 62 N Hotel Street, Honolulu.
About: This is a Tiki-style bar with solid drinks featuring local spirits. The décor is Pirates of the Caribbean meets Haunted Mansion meets Old Hawaii, which makes for plenty of photo opportunities.
Why we love this place: Once you’re done admiring the spooky interior, order some of their specialty drinks like the ‘Olu ‘Olu (made from Nanea and Kuleana Hui Hui rums, white grape, coconut water, absinthe, lemon, and lilikoi), or the Smol Kine Trouble in Lil China (a blend of Plantation Pineapple rum, Smith & Cross), Angostura bitters, absinthe, guava cinnamon syrup, grapefruit, and lime).
(8) Amuse Wine Bar
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Location: 1250 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu
Amuse Wine Bar has a lot going for it – wine carousels, mouthwatering appetizers, and a casual-cool vibe. Don’t forget to sip their wine samples to live music every Tuesday.
Why we love this place: Their dishes are a welcoming change from the usual greasy food you get at most bars. The atmosphere is quiet and the wait staff is extremely attentive. This is a good place for a date night or a night out with your pals. We highly recommend the sashimi salmon special and charcuterie platter to go with the wine.
(9) Podmore
Hours of operation: Wednesday to Friday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm – 11:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 am – 1:30 pm and 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Location: 202 Merchant Street, Honolulu.
Podmore is located in the historic downtown Honolulu area and is one of the most popular brunch and cocktail destinations in the city. They offer brunch items with a touch of English and European influence.
Why we love this place: We love the full English Breakfast here with the miniature scones and blood sausages, but if you’re visiting during the holidays, do try their Christmas Breakfast too. All of their cocktails are work-of-art, including the Amaretto Sour and Bloody Mary.
(10) Cuckoo Coconuts
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday, 5:00 pm – 11:30 pm (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5
Location: 333 Royal Hawaiian Avenue, Honolulu.
If you love Piña colada, coconut margarita, and other tropical drinks, cocktails at Cuckoo Coconut will blow your mind. They are best known for using organic, locally-sourced fruits to concoct their delicious beverages.
Why we love this place: Besides the refreshing tropical cocktails, they also serve the best authentic Hawaiian cuisine. From the traditional Lau Lau plates and seafood baskets, to garlic shrimp and Loco Moco, everything is worth going back for.
(11) Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 pm – 2:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 2424 Koa Avenue, Honolulu
Wang Chung Karaoke Bar is situated in the lobby of Stay Hotel, and known as one of the friendliest spots in Honolulu. If you want to show off your singing skills and dance your heart out or socialize with locals and tourists alike, look no further.
Why we love this place: In addition to the cozy atmosphere and tasty drinks, they also offer Latin and Asian inspired cuisine. Ordering your drinks and requesting songs to sing to is really super easy with their app.
(12) Smith’s Union Bar
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 6:00 am – 12:00 am; Saturday and Sunday, 6:00 am – 2:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.2 out of 5
Location: 19 N Hotel Street, Honolulu
This is the oldest bar in Hawaii, established in 1935 as a watering hole for sailors as well as soldiers stationed here. The classic pub is worth visiting for its impressive history alone. Somehow they have also maintained their ancient prices so you won’t find cheaper drinks anywhere else.
Why we love this place: Who doesn’t love extremely affordable beer and spirits! They have special deals going throughout the morning hours so it’s tempting to spend your day away at the bar (which we don’t recommend!). Since it’s a historic site, they have a lot of USS Arizona memorabilia on display.
(13) Honolulu Tavern
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 am – 2:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 417 Nohonani Street, Honolulu.
Honolulu Tavern is known for its homey vibe and great prices. The Taco Tuesdays are a big deal here, featuring $1 chicken tacos.
Why we love this place: The first thing you’ll notice after entering the Tavern is the warm and welcoming staff. If you decide to try and hit the bulls-eye with the dart boards, expect a friendly crowd to cheer you on! The chilled beer and Pu Pu Platter (meat and seafood appetizers) are a must try.
(14) Arnold’s Beach Bar & Grill
Hours of operation: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 pm – 2:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 339 Saratoga Road, Honolulu
Another great dive bar in Waikiki, this one attracts a lot of locals as well as surfers and hikers. If you want to mingle with the locals, this cute hidden gem is your spot.
Why we love this place: The super-friendly and personable bartenders add to the laidback atmosphere. This homey Tiki bar has an unpretentious vibe and excellent Mai Tai’s. They don’t serve much food but the live music and cheap drinks make it worth a visit.
(15) The Tchin Tchin! Bar
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Thursday, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday, 5:00 pm – 12:00 am (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 39 N Hotel Street, Honolulu.
Located in Chinatown, The Tchin Tchin! Bar is gorgeous and spacious with plenty of room to be inside and out. You can sit in the cozy bar or on the patio outside which is furnished with tufted leather couches. They have a wide range of spirits, including a great range of Japanese gins and whiskeys.
Why we love this place: Want to try wines from all over the world? Head over to this charming spot. And although it is technically a wine bar, the cocktail menu has some incredible off-menu options too. The Tchin-let (a version of gimlet) is served with fresh rosemary and the Trinidad Sour (a blend of Nikka Taketsuru whiskey, Angostura, syrup and lemon juice) is extraordinary.
(16) SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar
Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday, 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday, 4:00 pm – 1:30 am; Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 3.8 out of 5
Location: 2270 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu
This rooftop bar is set on a skyscraper in the middle of Waikiki and features refreshing drinks, light bites, and lively entertainment. The comfortable lounge sofas are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the magical sunset over a beer or a fancy cocktail.
Why we love this place: The panoramic views of the Diamond Head, Pacific Ocean, and Honolulu skyline make this open-air bar a must-visit. Live music and DJ help turn it into a bustling nightclub every evening.
(17) Honolulu Beerworks
Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday, 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (closed on Sundays).
⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5
Location: 328 Cooke Street, Honolulu.
Opened in 2014, this neighborhood brewpub was one of the first craft breweries in Hawaii. It has two outdoor beer gardens where you can hang out with your friends and sip the local beer. They use both local and imported ingredients, aging them in barrels to make seasonal porters, stouts, saisons, ales, and limited editions.
Why we love this place: They have a plethora of beer options on tap, plus their cider is equally amazing. The food menu is limited, but the freshly made sandwiches and salads are a treat; we recommend the Reuben for sure.
(18) The Pig and the Lady
Hours of operation: Tuesday & Wednesday, 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm; Thursday to Saturday, 11:30 am–2:30 pm and 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Location: 83 N King Street, Honolulu.
Most people come to The Pig And The Lady for the authentic Vietnamese fare; the freshly-baked bread and quality ingredients make for some of the best food on the island. By night, the casual noodle house turns into a contemporary restaurant with great atmosphere and drinks.
Why we love this place: Chef Andrew Le is a wizard when it comes to playing with traditional Vietnamese and Hawaiian flavors. The house-made sorbets and soft-serves are mind-blowing. The grilled sea scallops and raw oysters are fresh and filled with flavors. All the drinks are reasonably priced.
(19) WorkPlay
Hours of operation: Sunday to Wednesday, 4:00 pm – 12:00 am; Thursday to Saturday, 4:00 pm – 2:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Location: 814 Ilaniwai Street, 1st floor, Honolulu
WorkPlay is a trendy little bar and restaurant in the Kaka’ako neighborhood. With beautiful indoor and outdoor seating and live music performances every evening, the bar has a contemporary vibe. In addition to craft beers, it also serves unique cocktails and Mexican classic dishes.
Why we love this place: You can hang out or dance the night away on the main floor, but if you can afford it, consider reserving a spot at one of the private-themed rooms – the Peacock Room, Whisky Library, The Parlor, and The White Room. Check out their mimosas and street tacos.
(20) Moani Island Bistro & Bar
Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday, 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm; Friday, 3:00 pm – 12:00 am; Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 am – 12:00 am (open daily)
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Location: 91-5431 Kapolei Parkway, Kapolei
Moani Island Bistro & Bar is a short ride from Honolulu, inside the Ka Makana Ali’i Shopping Center. They have a wide array of drinks and food options to choose from.
Why we love this place: For cocktails, do try the Sour Power, Makaha Sunset, and Dutch Mule. Other specialties include sizzling spicy pork bulgogi, Teriyaki ribeye, and Yakoshiba. The live music makes you want to dance a jig while the friendly servers add to the memorable dining experience.
(21) Hana Koa Brewing Co.
Hours of operation: Tuesday to Thursday, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday & Saturday, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm; Sunday, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm (closed on Mondays)
⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5
Location: 962 Kawaiahao Street, Honolulu.
Wanna try a real Hawaiian craft beer? Hana Koa Brewing Co. is a paradise for beer lovers like you. The bar has a large seating area so you can relish your beer and delicious quick bites such as shrimps, ramen, salads, Texas Briskets, and spaghetti.
Why we love this place: Some of our favorite craft beers here include Shaka Cloud, Green River, and Breaktime Blonde. They have daily specials, and they are constantly creating interesting new beers. You are bound to find a new flavor on every visit.
The Wrap-up
So there you have it, the best bars Honolulu has to offer! Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere to drink and dance the night away or a more relaxed spot to enjoy a few cocktails with friends, there’s definitely a bar on this list that will fit your needs. So go ahead and check them out – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Mahalo for reading. Until next time, Aloha!
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