Best of 17 bars in Downtown
Looking for the best bars in Downtown? Bars in Downtown offer everything from chic rooftop lounges to classic dive spots, making your nights out full of energy and flavor. Whether you want craft cocktails or a beer with friends, bars in Downtown have something to match every mood and scene.
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- 1. Smith & Kings
- 2. Yours Truly Cocktail Bar
- 3. Black Shamrock Tavern
- 4. The Tchin Tchin! Bar
- 5. Bar Leather Apron
- 6. Skull & Crown Trading Co.
- 7. The Manifest
- 8. Bar 35
- 9. The Dragon Upstairs
- 10. EP bar
- 11. Red Bar
- 12. Podmore
- 13. Smith's Union Bar
- 14. OBAKE
- 15. Proof Social Club
- 16. Ferguson's Irish Pub
- 17. The Gatsby Hawai'i
1. Smith & Kings
Best-value happy hour in Honolulu—$6 cocktails and $3 drafts daily.
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Smith & Kings delivers a lively brunch scene where fresh fish and expertly prepared creamy grits stand out on the menu. The atmosphere, buzzing with energy, can become overly loud at peak hours, but attentive and accommodating service helps balance the experience.
Yet, inconsistency can detract from the meal, as dishes sometimes range from delightfully flavorful to underwhelming or bland, with occasional issues like lukewarm food. While highlights are memorable, diners may find the quality somewhat uneven between visits.
Smith & Kings delivers a lively brunch scene where fresh fish and expertly prepared creamy grits stand out on the menu. The atmosphere, buzzing with energy, can become overly loud at peak hours, but attentive and accommodating service helps balance the experience.
Yet, inconsistency can detract from the meal, as dishes sometimes range from delightfully flavorful to underwhelming or bland, with occasional issues like lukewarm food. While highlights are memorable, diners may find the quality somewhat uneven between visits.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
2. Yours Truly Cocktail Bar
3. Black Shamrock Tavern
Honolulu’s go-to Irish pub experience with unique pizzas and great drinks.
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Black Shamrock Tavern makes a bold entrance into Honolulu’s Chinatown, channeling authentic Irish pub vibes right from its Saint Patrick’s Day opening. The design features dark wood, green accents, and vintage memorabilia, creating a cozy yet spirited backdrop perfect for socializing late into the evening.
Patrons have quickly embraced Black Shamrock Tavern for its impressive beer and whiskey selection, along with a menu highlighted by house-made pizzas. The lively crowd and friendly staff make it a reliable destination in downtown Honolulu, delivering both flavor and genuine hospitality.
Black Shamrock Tavern makes a bold entrance into Honolulu’s Chinatown, channeling authentic Irish pub vibes right from its Saint Patrick’s Day opening. The design features dark wood, green accents, and vintage memorabilia, creating a cozy yet spirited backdrop perfect for socializing late into the evening.
Patrons have quickly embraced Black Shamrock Tavern for its impressive beer and whiskey selection, along with a menu highlighted by house-made pizzas. The lively crowd and friendly staff make it a reliable destination in downtown Honolulu, delivering both flavor and genuine hospitality.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
4. The Tchin Tchin! Bar
Chill rooftop in Chinatown featuring creative drinks, perfect for quiet date nights.
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The bar offers a strong drinks menu, highlighted by the Tchin gin cocktail and reasonably priced tequila shots, making it a good spot for casual outings or Taco Tuesday deals. While the shrimp with house cocktail sauce are decent, the portion size for the price may leave some wanting more. Service stands out as attentive, and the atmosphere blends a relaxed lounge vibe with a stylish, open patio.
Cleanliness, however, raises some concerns. Repeated sightings of a WD40 bottle stored alongside glassware and drinks detract from the overall experience and may give visitors pause about the venue’s attention to detail. Despite this, the consistently friendly staff and comfortable seating arrangements provide a welcoming environment for both solo visitors and groups.
The bar offers a strong drinks menu, highlighted by the Tchin gin cocktail and reasonably priced tequila shots, making it a good spot for casual outings or Taco Tuesday deals. While the shrimp with house cocktail sauce are decent, the portion size for the price may leave some wanting more. Service stands out as attentive, and the atmosphere blends a relaxed lounge vibe with a stylish, open patio.
Cleanliness, however, raises some concerns. Repeated sightings of a WD40 bottle stored alongside glassware and drinks detract from the overall experience and may give visitors pause about the venue’s attention to detail. Despite this, the consistently friendly staff and comfortable seating arrangements provide a welcoming environment for both solo visitors and groups.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
5. Bar Leather Apron
Winner of 2023 James Beard Award for next-level creative cocktails.
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Cocktails showcase creativity and are crafted with high-quality ingredients, reflecting the bartenders' skill and attention to detail. The bar seating is often recommended, providing guests with a close-up view of the intricate methods behind each drink's preparation and deepening appreciation for the mixology on display.
Service remains reliably professional, with staff demonstrating a clear dedication to both presentation and overall quality. Their approachable and passionate demeanor enhances the atmosphere and invites guests to engage with the craft, setting the establishment apart as a destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
Cocktails showcase creativity and are crafted with high-quality ingredients, reflecting the bartenders' skill and attention to detail. The bar seating is often recommended, providing guests with a close-up view of the intricate methods behind each drink's preparation and deepening appreciation for the mixology on display.
Service remains reliably professional, with staff demonstrating a clear dedication to both presentation and overall quality. Their approachable and passionate demeanor enhances the atmosphere and invites guests to engage with the craft, setting the establishment apart as a destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
6. Skull & Crown Trading Co.
Honolulu’s tiki hideaway: dramatic décor, inventive drinks, and an unforgettable escape experience.
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A true standout on the cocktail scene, this tiki bar offers a moody, almost mystical environment bathed in golden light, where a striking life-sized mermaid presides over the space. The meticulously crafted drinks dazzle, complementing the enchanting vibe and making each visit a memorable escape.
Tucked away like a secret retreat, the bar dazzles with its nautical decor and immersive atmosphere. Moody lighting sets the perfect backdrop for inventive, top-tier tiki cocktails. The food elevates the experience, delivering unexpected flavors that far outshine ordinary bar offerings.
A true standout on the cocktail scene, this tiki bar offers a moody, almost mystical environment bathed in golden light, where a striking life-sized mermaid presides over the space. The meticulously crafted drinks dazzle, complementing the enchanting vibe and making each visit a memorable escape.
Tucked away like a secret retreat, the bar dazzles with its nautical decor and immersive atmosphere. Moody lighting sets the perfect backdrop for inventive, top-tier tiki cocktails. The food elevates the experience, delivering unexpected flavors that far outshine ordinary bar offerings.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Fusion Cuisine
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
7. The Manifest
Arts District hangout—coffee by day, dance parties, DJs, and karaoke by night.
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On the second Friday, this spot reveals a unique blend of dive bar edginess and lounge sophistication, wrapped in low light and rich, moody decor. While cocktails and service may not break new ground, the atmosphere stands out with its subtle, soulful energy. Live music, whether from a standout vocalist or a skilled DJ, fills the space and seems to set the tone for relaxed but lively evenings.
Manifest offers both solid cocktails by night and quality coffee by day in a distinctive industrial-brick interior. The staff—from bouncer to bartender—contributes to a welcoming vibe, and affordable drinks draw a friendly crowd. Karaoke sessions add an extra layer of entertainment, creating a space where revelers are often seen having a genuine good time. The well-working AC and a reliably cool environment only enhance the overall experience.
On the second Friday, this spot reveals a unique blend of dive bar edginess and lounge sophistication, wrapped in low light and rich, moody decor. While cocktails and service may not break new ground, the atmosphere stands out with its subtle, soulful energy. Live music, whether from a standout vocalist or a skilled DJ, fills the space and seems to set the tone for relaxed but lively evenings.
Manifest offers both solid cocktails by night and quality coffee by day in a distinctive industrial-brick interior. The staff—from bouncer to bartender—contributes to a welcoming vibe, and affordable drinks draw a friendly crowd. Karaoke sessions add an extra layer of entertainment, creating a space where revelers are often seen having a genuine good time. The well-working AC and a reliably cool environment only enhance the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
8. Bar 35
Craft beer paradise with vibrant nightlife and a truly diverse crowd.
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This spot consistently offers an impressive beer selection, with robust, high-alcohol stouts and porters that stand out among the taps—perfect for those seeking bold flavors during happy hour. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, attracting regulars who appreciate top-notch brews and generous drink specials.
Service operates on another level, marked by genuine friendliness and quick response times. Bartenders are regularly praised for their laid-back approach and skill at managing busy crowds without missing a beat, making every visit smooth and enjoyable.
This spot consistently offers an impressive beer selection, with robust, high-alcohol stouts and porters that stand out among the taps—perfect for those seeking bold flavors during happy hour. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, attracting regulars who appreciate top-notch brews and generous drink specials.
Service operates on another level, marked by genuine friendliness and quick response times. Bartenders are regularly praised for their laid-back approach and skill at managing busy crowds without missing a beat, making every visit smooth and enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
9. The Dragon Upstairs
A hidden jazz gem with live music and an old-school dance floor.
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Tucked above Hank's Cafe and away from the usual beach crowds, this spot brims with personality, drawing visitors in with its lively jazz performances and quirky ambiance. The vibe leans vintage, complemented by a small dance floor that occasionally hosts standout swing dancers, adding flair and excitement.
A low cover supports the talented musicians, making it easy to enjoy top-notch tunes in a close, energetic setting. Space is at a premium; the intimate bar and dance floor suit couples and small groups rather than those seeking a sprawling night out.
Tucked above Hank's Cafe and away from the usual beach crowds, this spot brims with personality, drawing visitors in with its lively jazz performances and quirky ambiance. The vibe leans vintage, complemented by a small dance floor that occasionally hosts standout swing dancers, adding flair and excitement.
A low cover supports the talented musicians, making it easy to enjoy top-notch tunes in a close, energetic setting. Space is at a premium; the intimate bar and dance floor suit couples and small groups rather than those seeking a sprawling night out.
TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
10. EP bar
Japanese listening bar vibes, uniquely Hawai‘i style, thousands of vinyls spinning nightly.
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The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between cozy and lively, creating an inviting setting that works well for a date night. Thoughtfully chosen décor and a well-curated music selection enhance the experience, resulting in a memorable atmosphere.
This venue stands out as one of Honolulu’s top destinations for drinks. The chic, upscale environment and energetic vibe set it apart, while the staff demonstrates impressive knowledge and friendliness. Both regulars and newcomers find plenty to appreciate, making it a highly recommended option.
The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between cozy and lively, creating an inviting setting that works well for a date night. Thoughtfully chosen décor and a well-curated music selection enhance the experience, resulting in a memorable atmosphere.
This venue stands out as one of Honolulu’s top destinations for drinks. The chic, upscale environment and energetic vibe set it apart, while the staff demonstrates impressive knowledge and friendliness. Both regulars and newcomers find plenty to appreciate, making it a highly recommended option.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
11. Red Bar
12. Podmore
British-inspired fare and masterful cocktails in downtown Honolulu’s most stylish lounge-bar.
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With its blend of British charm and sophisticated design, Podmore presents a curated dining experience amidst urban Honolulu. The restaurant’s authentic architecture sets the stage for inventive dishes, like the whimsical Smoked Soufflé Pancake, which adds a sense of playfulness to the menu. Attention to detail in both the interior and cuisine highlights Podmore’s dedication to reimagined classics and elevated flavors.
Equally impressive is the cocktail program, featuring seasonal offerings such as the Chung Chow, which reflect a commitment to creativity behind the bar. The beautifully designed lounge attracts guests seeking a refined yet approachable spot for cocktails or brunch. Whether for a leisurely weekend meal or an evening drink, Podmore’s ambiance and thoughtful menu make it a standout in the neighborhood.
With its blend of British charm and sophisticated design, Podmore presents a curated dining experience amidst urban Honolulu. The restaurant’s authentic architecture sets the stage for inventive dishes, like the whimsical Smoked Soufflé Pancake, which adds a sense of playfulness to the menu. Attention to detail in both the interior and cuisine highlights Podmore’s dedication to reimagined classics and elevated flavors.
Equally impressive is the cocktail program, featuring seasonal offerings such as the Chung Chow, which reflect a commitment to creativity behind the bar. The beautifully designed lounge attracts guests seeking a refined yet approachable spot for cocktails or brunch. Whether for a leisurely weekend meal or an evening drink, Podmore’s ambiance and thoughtful menu make it a standout in the neighborhood.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
- Dinner
- Fusion Cuisine
13. Smith's Union Bar
Oldest bar in Honolulu—affordable drinks, local vibes, and rich history.
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Smith’s Union Bar stands out as a staple among Honolulu’s dive bars, maintaining an authentic local vibe that feels welcoming to both regulars and newcomers. The bar’s storied history adds a layer of charm, making it a popular spot for those seeking an unpretentious drinking experience.
The drink menu impresses with its range, covering both classic cheap beers and an appealing selection of local brews, all offered at wallet-friendly prices. Combined with a relaxed, no-frills environment and personable service, Smith’s Union Bar ensures a casual night out with genuine character.
Smith’s Union Bar stands out as a staple among Honolulu’s dive bars, maintaining an authentic local vibe that feels welcoming to both regulars and newcomers. The bar’s storied history adds a layer of charm, making it a popular spot for those seeking an unpretentious drinking experience.
The drink menu impresses with its range, covering both classic cheap beers and an appealing selection of local brews, all offered at wallet-friendly prices. Combined with a relaxed, no-frills environment and personable service, Smith’s Union Bar ensures a casual night out with genuine character.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
14. OBAKE
Japanese-inspired cocktails paired with hand rolls; hip, artsy late-night vibe.
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Obake Honolulu stands out as a destination for those seeking inventive hand rolls paired with a well-curated cocktail menu. Each roll showcases attention to detail, emphasizing quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. The cohesive pairing of food and drinks results in a balanced, inviting dining atmosphere.
Cocktails at Obake are notably designed to enhance the culinary offerings, featuring options that are both refreshing and pleasantly nuanced. Signature drinks like the Moon Strut elevate the meal, providing flavors that are clean and complimentary. The experience is elevated by attentive service and a vibrant setting.
Obake Honolulu stands out as a destination for those seeking inventive hand rolls paired with a well-curated cocktail menu. Each roll showcases attention to detail, emphasizing quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. The cohesive pairing of food and drinks results in a balanced, inviting dining atmosphere.
Cocktails at Obake are notably designed to enhance the culinary offerings, featuring options that are both refreshing and pleasantly nuanced. Signature drinks like the Moon Strut elevate the meal, providing flavors that are clean and complimentary. The experience is elevated by attentive service and a vibrant setting.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Late Night
15. Proof Social Club
Hidden Chinatown bar with energetic music, themed events, and local crowd.
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A tucked-away bar near Fort Street Mall charms with its low-key atmosphere and inviting decor. The pizza menu draws comparisons to classic Boston-style pies—hearty, satisfying, and a definite highlight. Visitors will appreciate the intimate setting, offering a welcome escape from the city’s bustle.
The ambiance leans toward a dive bar vibe, creating a relaxed space popular with locals, especially on quieter weeknights. Standout craft cocktails and a skilled bartender elevate the experience, while the friendly crowd makes it feel like a neighborhood secret worth discovering.
A tucked-away bar near Fort Street Mall charms with its low-key atmosphere and inviting decor. The pizza menu draws comparisons to classic Boston-style pies—hearty, satisfying, and a definite highlight. Visitors will appreciate the intimate setting, offering a welcome escape from the city’s bustle.
The ambiance leans toward a dive bar vibe, creating a relaxed space popular with locals, especially on quieter weeknights. Standout craft cocktails and a skilled bartender elevate the experience, while the friendly crowd makes it feel like a neighborhood secret worth discovering.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
16. Ferguson's Irish Pub
Classic Irish spot with modern remodel and casual, friendly downtown vibe.
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Ferguson's, now under the management of Don Murphy and the JJ Dolans team, impresses with a recent stunning remodel. The space features high ceilings and rich dark wood accents, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The drink list highlights a curated selection of wines and beers to complement any meal.
This Irish pub, tucked beneath an office building, brings a welcoming, cozy energy to the neighborhood. The menu bridges American and Irish flavors, with standout items like the hot pastrami panini and quesadilla winning regular acclaim from patrons.
Ferguson's, now under the management of Don Murphy and the JJ Dolans team, impresses with a recent stunning remodel. The space features high ceilings and rich dark wood accents, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The drink list highlights a curated selection of wines and beers to complement any meal.
This Irish pub, tucked beneath an office building, brings a welcoming, cozy energy to the neighborhood. The menu bridges American and Irish flavors, with standout items like the hot pastrami panini and quesadilla winning regular acclaim from patrons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
17. The Gatsby Hawai'i
A haven for cocktail lovers—live performances, themed nights, and salsa parties.
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The Gatsby delivers an immersive nightlife experience, blending artistic flair with a lively, eclectic setting. Guests are enveloped by the bar’s unique ambiance, where dazzling live performances and carefully curated décor set the stage for memorable evenings.
Signature cocktails, including the inventive ‘Across the Bay,’ captivate with bold flavors and presentation. Sunday Salsa parties ignite the dance floor, fueled by top-tier DJs and an energetic crowd, creating a haven for those seeking dynamic entertainment and creative drinks.
The Gatsby delivers an immersive nightlife experience, blending artistic flair with a lively, eclectic setting. Guests are enveloped by the bar’s unique ambiance, where dazzling live performances and carefully curated décor set the stage for memorable evenings.
Signature cocktails, including the inventive ‘Across the Bay,’ captivate with bold flavors and presentation. Sunday Salsa parties ignite the dance floor, fueled by top-tier DJs and an energetic crowd, creating a haven for those seeking dynamic entertainment and creative drinks.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Late Night