Happy Talk Lounge Restaurant & Bar

As a hospitality professional living and working on the island, I hold a deep appreciation for the spirit of aloha and the importance of creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere—especially in a place as special as Hanalei. Sadly, my recent experience at the bar at Hanalei Bay Resort left me not only disappointed, but genuinely concerned about the way guests—local or visiting—are being treated. My team and I approached the bar after work and were about to take the last available seats when someone else was seated there. No big deal—we didn’t make a fuss. I chose to respectfully stand off to the side, tucked into the corner, making sure I was not in the way of the staff or other guests. However, one of the hosts looked directly at me and quite rudely told me I couldn’t stand there. I calmly and kindly explained our situation and what had just happened, expecting maybe some understanding or an alternative suggestion. Instead, she repeated herself in a sharp tone, again insisting I couldn’t stand there, with no regard for my explanation or tone. Trying to remain polite, I asked what the solution was. I was told I could go sit in the lounge area—which, again, I was happy to do. I then asked if I could at least take my drink with me, and was again met with a blunt “no.” The lack of hospitality and dismissive attitude were jarring, especially in a resort setting where graciousness should be the norm. Out of respect for the bartender (who was kind), I paid for our drinks, tipped properly, and moved to the lounge. But the tone had already been set, and frankly, it left a bitter taste. If this is how locals—who understand and live hospitality—are treated, I can’t help but wonder how first-time visitors or tourists are being spoken to when they’re simply trying to enjoy themselves. Respect should be a two-way street. The guest experience begins the moment someone steps foot into your space, and it's not just about the view or the drinks—it's about how people are made to feel. This experience was a missed opportunity for connection, kindness, and showing true aloha. I hope the resort takes feedback like this seriously, not just for the sake of reviews, but for the soul of hospitality on this island.

Happy hour 3-5. Great atmosphere and view from the bar. Food was great, especially the calamari & shrimp appetizer.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We came here on the recommendation of a local. We just made it for happy hour. We got the coconut shrimp, rum brussels & sliders. Our server with the infectious smile and amazing personality was Stella. What a treat! We were seated at a table for 2 with a wonderful view. Couldn’t recommend this place more!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lava Flow Strawberry & Mango, Lava Flow, Sliders

Parking: Complimentary valet parking. Be sure to tip your driver ??

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Loco Moco, Fries, Volcano Poke

We have had two wedding receptions there and they have always been very accommodating. Extremely great food and atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

They have live music, yet with multiple tvs all over the place, it was hard to hear and pay attention. The food was "microwaved" reheated. Had the chicken wings. For the price we expected much better, especially with the nice resort.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 2

Service: 4

Absolutely the best employees and perfectly prepared food on Kauai. My wife and I came here after another restaurant ruined our 30th anniversary dinner and these people repaired our bad evening. Rebecca up front got us a table for the sunset that the other restaurant ruined and Brittney was the most awesome waitress anyone could ask for. Even the owner came out to wish us a Happy Anniversary. Absolutely the BEST experience ever. Wish I could give them 10 stars. Worth every penny, super nice atmosphere. 100% recommend

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food and staff were great. They were quick with refills, quick to bring out food, and all the while it was super busy. We got seated right next to the live band, which was a good band but it was also very loud being that close. But 5/5 on everything else.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Chips, Salad

Best view on the island. Great entertainment on a Sunday night - ukulele with traditional hula by a sweet couple. Spectacular view and great food. Expensive but everything on Kauai is. Perfect for a celebratory meal - 25year anniversary. They comped our dessert for the event.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Volcano Poke

Great spot, excellent service at the bar.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

I have t found any other bar and grill in hawaii with better views! Food is amazing and great live music.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Delicious food, great entertainment, nice drinks, best view on the island.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Tucked in at the Hanalei Bay resort this place has great Food And Drinks, the service is amazing, loved it.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Hummus Plate, Shrimp Ceviche, Chips, Wings

Excellent place, has a great view, delicious food and cold ? beer ❄️
From 3 pm to 5 pm they have happy hour and from 6 to 9 pm live music, without a doubt a must in Kauai ?

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great place w/ a gorgeous view of the Bay. The drinks are spectacular and we were very impressed with their food!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Chicken Sandwich