(Queue Cheers Theme Music)...
"Sometimes you want to go, where everybody knows your name,
and they're always glad you came. You wanna be where you can see,
our troubles are all the same, you wanna be where everybody knows
your name".
I had to get that out of my system. Just like the sitcom...The 10th Puka is one of those bars that serves up good drinks and good times without breaking the bank. Now, I have to say without making the Puka sound pretentious, it caters to a select crowd. Needless to say you have to be able to access Hickam AFB (Active Duty, Reserve, Guard, Retired) or be a guest of a military friend in order to partake in the festivities.
The Puka is not flashy or fancy and can be compared to the corner pub in Anytown, USA, and that's its appeal. It's totally different (and a good change of pace) from the bars and clubs which dot Waikiki. The don't serve up any food, but there is a Mexican place right next door which will bring food over to your table at the Puka!! Mexican delivery to a bar!!? It doesn't get any better than that.
The busiest night by far is every Friday starting at about 1600 ish (that's 4 pm for you civilian types) and it runs till about midnight. Friday also features Karaoke which is always fun after you've had one too many. The folks that run the Karaoke are always taking suggestions and updating their playlists, so that's pretty cool. The other nights of the week are pretty slow, with a regular crowd. Friday is definitely when it gets packed.
The Puka is definitely a spot where you can gather with friends, let your hair down and kick a few back after a stressful week. Oh did I mention that the lanai back to a golf course? Hmm, cool bar, good drinks, food next door, Karaoke and a view, that's what I'm talking about!
So if you find yourself on Hickam on a Friday night I would recommend stopping by. read more