24 Best Cocktail Bars near Kailua

“The better half of the world food tour duo trekked over to Kailua and met me at Gaslamp, on Ho'olai St. The parking lot was full so we both found parking on the street. Hah, when I got back to my car, I found another car illegally parked behind me. So, parking appears to be an issue in this area.

There is no signage outside that tells you it’s Gaslamp, the signage says Kailua Town Pub and Grill. You have to go past the left side of the bar to a door, give a wait staff the secret passcode (which I failed to remember) and be taken through a door behind you, up a steep staircase to a small space overlooking the bar downstairs. There are about six tables and it’s a very dark space.

Natalie was our server and we started with a Botanist gin & tonic ($18) and a glass of J Lassalle Champagne ($25). I didn’t have any details about the wine, but it was not complex and was lacking bubbles.

We ordered the Kagoshima Wagyu Carpaccio($32) and the Escargot Bone Marrow ($42) to start. The carpaccio was a visual treat with capers, thin slices of radish, dill, pecorino and caviar. It tasted as good as it looked. The bone marrow was even better … two large bones topped with garlic buttered escargot, decorated with blistered tomatoes, and an arugula salad with two pieces of grilled sourdough. So unctuous, so decadent, so divine!

We split two entrees … The Wagyu Sampler (market price, it was $179), and the Black Truffle Risotto ($54). We added extra truffle ($12) and a side of Miso Brussels Sprouts ($16). The sampler came with two pieces of A5 “Snow Beef”, a piece of American “Wagyu” Filet Mignon, and pieces of ribeye an NY striploin, 12oz in all, and two sauces. The risotto contained sea asparagus, mascarpone and mozzarella cheeses, Hamakua mushrooms, and tomatoes. I consider the extra black truffle mandatory … It’s not special without it.

We ended our meal by sharing a Tiramisu ($12) and I had an espresso ($5). The tiramisu was very good, made in the classic style with pieces of fruit on top.

There was live music … a saxophonist played soft jazz starting at 6:30pm. It was our kind of music. Service was fine … we asked Natalie to slow down the delivery of food, and she ensured it was so. The food was great and we enjoyed our first visit to Gaslamp. One note: they apply a service charge if you use a credit card … It seems to be the new norm. Highly recommended (4.5), even if you must search for parking.“

“Really awesome place we came here to eat and had some awesome drinks .we met the executive chef Luis Axalan he was very nice explaining the concept and he was very helpful explaining the food items . We also tried the Chef’s Special salmon crostini was the best we ever had. The pork Bao buns is to die for!!!! 10/10 for all the food . The drinks were very good also . We will definitely come back . Kailua peeps come down and check them out ..“

“Just a fun place with fun people“

“Mia at Surf Bar Waikiki is incredible! She makes the best crafted cocktails, perfectly balanced, creative, and consistently delicious. You can really tell she knows her craft and takes pride in every drink she makes. On top of that, her energy and friendliness make the whole experience even better. If you’re sitting at the bar, Mia is the one you want making your cocktails. Highly recommend!“

“This place is small but stylish and beautifully decorated, from the star of a bar design to each and every cozy nook throughout. Now home of the best craft cocktails on Oahu and complimented with well thought out, mouth watering bites. I went with a friend for the grand opening evening and I would never have guessed it was a grand opening. The staff was friendly, seemed very at ease the whole night and the bartender was knowledgeable about the menu. We tried 5 or so different small bites and a couple various cocktails each from the menu and EVERY SINGLE item was delicious and crafted so beautifully we almost didn't want to eat or drink them (almost! 😋) Well done, Podmore!!“

“Bar Leather Apron is easily one of Honolulu's most exceptional cocktail experiences—a place where precision, creativity, and genuine hospitality all come together seamlessly. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the care and craft behind every detail, and that feeling only deepens as the night goes on. The cocktails alone are worth planning an evening around. In the Soul is a standout—balanced, expressive, and layered in a way that unfolds sip after sip. The Japan is elegant and refined, a beautiful reflection of the bar's deep respect for Japanese technique. The Matcha is both comforting and complex, with its velvety texture and earthy aroma, while the Sagano Smoke adds a dramatic flair, weaving smokiness and subtle sweetness into something unforgettable. And if you prefer something more delicate, the Fruity & Floral is bright, aromatic, and wonderfully refreshing. But the surprises don't end with the drinks. The Brioche with pizza butter is an absolute revelation—warm, soft, and perfectly indulgent. It's the kind of bite that makes you stop mid-conversation just to appreciate how unexpectedly incredible something so simple can be. What elevates the entire experience, though, is the service. Scotty is phenomenal—attentive, personable, and clearly passionate about the craft. And co-owner Jason sets the tone with his expertise and warm, welcoming presence. Together, they create a space that feels refined yet relaxed, where every guest is treated with genuine care. Bar Leather Apron isn't just a bar—it's a world-class cocktail destination. Whether you're a dedicated spirits enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable night out in Honolulu, this is the place that will exceed every expectation. This is easily a must on my list for all future trips to Oahu.“

“🍸 The best cocktail bar I visited in Hawaii! 🍸
The drinks here were ridiculously good — easily the best cocktails I had during my time in Hawaii. You can tell the bartenders know their craft. On top of that, the location and ambiance were spot on — cozy, stylish, and perfect for a night out. If you appreciate a proper cocktail, this place is a must.“

“Great seafood, to s f choices amazing service and listening to John Akapo by the pool is amazing“

“Excellent Mai Tai right on Waikiki beach.“

“This was our first visit. Our service was exceptional. Food was very good. Music was soothing. We will return soon“

“Chef Wong blew our minds with the various shrimp dishes, eggplant bruschetta, smoked marlin toast, beet salad, etc. Our bartender Jose mixed some delicious drinks and played upbeat rhythms which all combined to an elevated experience. Mahalo to all“

“Great speakeasy hidden bar in Honolulu. During this visit wanted to find a couple of hidden bars. This one was fun and fit the bill as hard to find! Other reviewers have said where it is. I found finding the phone number to make a reservation a challenge! Once connected they texted the reservation link. Once confirmed they texted the instructions. For us we entered through a vending machine. (Based on other reviews I assume they change the “front” of the door occasionally. Cocktails were excellent!“

“Friendly folks, cheap drinks, great music at a cool bar. One of my favorite watering holes in Honolulu!“

“Good food, I've only been once. You can't go wrong with the catfish sandwich. The fish piece was so big, it hung off both ends of the roll and you could've taken it off and created an entire new sandwich. All for a great price.“

“The beer prices finally went up!
$3.50 for domestic beer
$4.00 for imported beer

3 Mama's @ this bar, the karaoke girl can sing! Friday & Saturday is a good time to have a beer and eat pupu and just listen to karaoke.

pupu“

“The bartenders are very attentive and have great personalities. I was so happy we found this place and I am looking forward to coming back as soon as possible. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking to have a good time.“

“6/2025
Been frequenting this nice,cozy find quite a bit, especially on Wine down Wednesdays. You cannot beat the 50% off most all wine bottle special. It's also not like the carry bad labels either. Their list is simple but elegant as is the atmosphere. Located on the 2nd floor in the middle of Nordstroms, this little secret is a pleasant way to kill some time, watch a quick game on TV, heck out the foot traffic while contemplating that to do list, or enjoy random conversations with regulars and newbies alike. Everyone knows the friendly staff by name and the cocktails are pretty dang good too. It's not the cheapest place in the world to get a cocktail but what place is nowadays and the ambiance provides that added value. Hence, Wednesdays. Give them a try when you're near Foodland or shopping in the area and pamper yourself with an unexpected pleasant break. 😉🤙✌️“

“Beautiful meal, very helpful staff , they were very keen to find a table for us without a reservation. Nothing was a problem and the ambiance is very special.“

“Very good food.“

“Outside table for one at lunch time. Korean barbecue chicken sandwich. Excellent, delicious and messie to eat. I would order again.“

“We love our date nights at Senia. The food is outstanding. Such creative flavor combinations by Chef Rush. The staff are all friendly and accommodating. The ambiance is not too loud and not too quiet, and the booth seating is very intimate. Well deserving of all their awards.“

“My wife & I came to Hawaii for our honeymoon in June of 2022, and Mai Tai's was our spot.. the atmosphere & the service was truly amazing. We came everyday we were on the Island. I absolutely recommend coming to Mai Tai's if your ever on the island, you will not be disappointed. 🤙✌️“