In Hawaiʻi, the expression “pau hana” is often interchanged with the phrase “happy hour,” and translates to “work is finished.” It refers to a conscious decision to leave any worries behind and enjoy free time. The essence of “pau hana” encourages visitors to put down their phone and relax in the company of others over drinks and pupus (appetizers). Here are some of the top spots to find the best happy hour near and around Lihue, Kapa’a, and Hokuala.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
Feature Photo Courtesy of Sam’s Ocean View
Jo2 Natural Cuisine
4-971 Kuhio Hwy., Kapaʻa
808.212.1627
Chef Jean-Marie Josselin has created a menu that merges the culinary influences of his native France, the clean flavors of Japanese cooking, and Hawaii’s multi-ethnic community. Jo2 focuses on using local organic produce and freshly caught fish. Their happy hour comes in the for of an early bird special, $35 for a three-course prix fixe dinner, that’s available everyday from 5pm to 6pm. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 5pm to 9pm.
Kalapaki Joe’s
3-2600 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue
808.245.6366
Kalapaki Joe’s, hailed as the “Westernmost Sports Bar in the US,” is also home to the largest selection of beers on the island with over 50 different brews. Stop by one of its two locations in Poipu Beach and Kukui Grove to watch the game on one of their large-screen TVs or enjoy a plate of their Nobu Poke Nachos. Grab a jumbo cocktail — truly huge, many are originals, such as their Banana Virus and Pakala Pear Cooler. Happy Hour is 3pm to 6pm daily, featuring $5 select cocktails, $1 shrimp tempura, $1 steak street tacos on Tuesdays, and more. Kukui Grove location open 11am – 9pm daily.
Sam’s Ocean View
4-1546 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaa
808.822.7887
“Eat, drink, fun” is the motto at Sam’s Ocean View, where high-quality food and drinks, a stunning ocean view, and a casual atmosphere combine. Their commitment to freshness carries through to their hand-mixed cocktails locally-sourced ingredients and never a soda gun. Try their guava, lilikoi jalapeño, or blood orange margaritas or browse their extensive beer, wine, and cider menus while you enjoy global twists on American dishes. Happy Hour drink specials are available 4pm to 6pm, Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Open 4pm to 9pm, Thursday through Monday.
Hualani’s
3770 Ala’oli Way Suite 2, Lihue
808.320.7399
Nowhere is the Garden Isle better celebrated than at Hualani’s, located at the Timbers Ocean Club & Residences. Their farm-to-table menu features fruits and vegetables grown at Timbers’ Farm at Hōkūala, which the bar complements with its selection of specialty cocktails, beer, and wine. Happy Hour is 3pm to 5pm — their Pau Hana “time after work” menu offers $5 beer, $8 wine, and bites like coconut shrimp, ahi dip with banana chips, and even “pupu-style” ribeye. Open for dinner 5pm to 8:30 pm Monday through Saturday. Bar open 11am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and 11am to 5pm Sunday.
