OVERALL SATISTFACTION: 10 of 10. 5 of 5 stars, Na ka…read moreoi...simply da bes! Keeping in mind that 1. I love live music, theater and big screen films. And 2. I haven't resided in the islands since the mid-90s. With that said, I have been here for several shows and I purposely flown in for some and other were just the lowest of consolation prizes for having to fly away from loved ones due to my job taking me to another "twist my arm" experience = Stay on Oahu. I joke of course, but in earnest, growing up with the lights of Broadway and hundreds of concert venues nearby, I take my theater experiences very seriously and the Hawaii Theater meets any and every want/need one could dream of. For me it exceeds most. Please allow me to define... MY EXPERIENCES: I have been to a Christmas show, on my birthday, featuring Amy Hanaiali'i and, the much beloved and missed, Willie K (R.I.P.), which included a wonderful meet and greet. On another visit to HNL I just happened to be around for a Beach Boys show and was fortunate enough to get a ticket for it. And most recently, I flew in for a showing of The Princess Bride which featured a meet and greet of Cary Elwes. AT THE TOP: The President of the Hawaii Theater, Gregory Dunn is super humble, very polite and amazingly professional in every aspect. Best of all, he gets involved in the pre-show activities be it guiding folks to where they need to be or ensuring we understand the process of a meet and greet. Ya gotta love when there is no job below those in charge. He sets an example that many could benefit from if their eyes are truly open. SECURITY: If you have been to downtown Honolulu, you know it hasn't been a place that gets touted around the globe for it's cleanliness or safety. HPD has had their hands full over the years. Stores may have closed and some issues still exist, but overall I feel that the area has been improving greatly and adding to the return of a safer feeling neighborhood is the Hawaii Theater's security team. Yes, they are the most amazing group of people that one could want to see at an event. These guys are the, literally, the muscle that keeps things in order and flowing, from bag checks to ensuring reentry folks have wristbands. They operate like a finely tuned engine. As a concert goer that has been to well over 500 shows globally, I recognize these folks as the best. I will even go as far as to say that actually recognize some of them since my last visit a couole years back, which means that the team is sticking together. With that stated, not once have I had any safety concerns with these guys on duty... and still downtown can be questionable at times. STAFF OF THE THEATER: From the box office staff to those assigned to scan your tickets and give out VIP wristbands, these folks know how to keep the lines moving. Once inside there are strategically placed individuals, as one would expect. Folks there to give you direction to restrooms or concessions and then you have the ushers, those folks who are much more than a uniformed someone with a flashlight who is unfamiliar with the venue layout. These folks are amazing, they will get you to your seat in a timely, professional manner. Last but not least, are the bartenders... the fashionable, handlebar mustachioed bartender I met a few shows back was here again... and I always find him to be a terrific conversationalist (when time allots), incredibly professional and truly represents the venue as best as any one could. Put all these compliments together under one roof and you get one of the best theater experiences you could hope to ever find. You should come to downtown and find out for yourself... and you'll be a repeat offender, like me, (END NOTE: I fly in from the mainland for touring shows I could easily opt to catch on the mainland, and for a cheaper overall hit to the wallet. The Hawaii Theater, as defined above, is truly the deciding factor).

Walking into the Hawai'i Theatre, you're instantly transported into another era. An era of soft…read moreelegance and timeless artistry. From the moment you pass through the doors, you're surrounded by a blend of old-world elegance and Hawaiian warmth. Built in 1922, the theatre has hosted everything from silent films and Broadway plays to concerts and Hula performances. Today it seats about 1,400 guests, offering an intimate experience where every seat feels close to the stage. The acoustics are excellent, the seats are comfortable, and the staff and volunteers are friendly, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. There's also a small bar and lounge with high-tops, perfect for enjoying a drink and conversation before the show. Inside the theater, you see tall, fluted Corinthian-style columns that are richly detailed. The curved arch overhead is decorated with mosaic-style tiles in warm tones,and I absolutely LOVE the lush deep red velvet curtains that frame the stage. They add so much warmth and elegance. Having attended many shows throughout the years, I've always been mesmerized by the mural above the stage and decided to do some Googling while waiting for the show to begin. I learned it's Lionel Walden's Glorification of the Drama. The painting depicts a grand procession of mythic figures -- a golden-robed muse in her chariot, attendants, musicians, a lion handler -- all celebrating the power of theater. The central figure, often interpreted as the Personification of Drama, leads the way. Knowing that part of the mural was once lost to water damage and later painstakingly restored makes it even more meaningful. Parking is easy at the municipal garage on Bethel Street, just a block away. The short walk is now well-lit, a welcome improvement from years past when it was dark and sketchy. Entertaining audiences for over 100 years, the Hawaii Theater is a recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Attending a show here, you're not just watching a performance, you're also living and breathing a beautiful piece of Hawaii's historic culture.

Dragon Upstairs in Honolulu's Chinatown district, located above the street along Nuuanu Avenue in…read moreone of the city's most active nightlife corridors. Chinatown has become a hub for music venues, cocktail bars, and late-night entertainment, and Dragon Upstairs stands out as one of the neighborhood's more distinctive underground clubs. The atmosphere is energetic and slightly gritty in a way that feels intentional. The venue has the character of an old-school nightlife space, with dim lighting, a dance floor, and music that drives the energy of the room. Because it is located upstairs and somewhat hidden from the street, the club carries a sense of discovery that adds to the experience. Music and live performances are the heart of the venue. DJs and occasional live acts create a constantly shifting soundtrack that ranges from electronic and dance music to other genres depending on the night. The dance floor tends to fill quickly, especially on weekends, giving the club a lively and immersive atmosphere. The bar serves a straightforward lineup of drinks designed to keep the energy moving rather than slow the pace of the night. The focus remains on the music, dancing, and social environment rather than an elaborate cocktail program. Service during the visit felt efficient given the fast-paced nightlife setting. Staff kept the bar moving while maintaining a friendly and approachable attitude. From a global travel perspective, Dragon Upstairs reminded me of underground clubs I have encountered in cities like Berlin, Tokyo, and Los Angeles where music culture and nightlife creativity define the experience.

Oh my grinches... On…read morethis holiday scene it seems like it's everywhere and is no different here at The Dragon Upstairs a cozy spot on Nuuanu Ave as the holiday decor stars right as you enter and is so wonderful as it continues throughout the bar, it's not that big with just five bar top seats and about five table seats but don't get me wrong it is quite spacious with lots of instagramable spots like their topsy upside down tree, lights, table decor and Christmas music playing keeping the vibe festive. The staff was quite busy as a crowd came in thirsty for drinks but was very friendly and as I checked out their seasonal drink menu decided on a Elf shot which is a cute a slightly sweet drink that just reminded me of a calpico. Fun place right in downtown and with lots of free street parking after 6pm it's really a plus along with the cool air conditioning going you can still keep your cool even as the drinks kick in. Thank you!

This was a great venue with an intimate setup to have a great view of the musicians…read more The show was short at only about an hour, but it was packed with great music from Iam Tongi's band. The food was less than average and quite pricey so I would recommend eating beforehand!

Rating the FOOD only!! Expensive and subpar quality…read more The poke nachos were decent. The bbq ribs were DRY! Like super dry. Daughter choked on it trying to swallow it because it was so dry. Husband couldnt even finish his dish and he usually is not picky with foods. The short rib loco moco was okay. The gravy tasted very "cheap". Thats the only word I can think of to describe it. The short rib was decent (wouldnt say it was good, but it was edible). The favorite part of this dish was the white rice which was soft. I like the venue but unfortunately I wouldnt go back since its $20 minimum per person for purchasing food/drinks.

Always have a good time here, good shows. Midget wrestling, concerts, comedy, etc. Bar staff…read moreusually good too. Parking - eh. Usually hit mall but now you can park under Republik too for a fee. Tonight, boyyyyyy - bartender betch pissed me off!!! Nasty ass attitude. Won't open her betch mouth but want to use her hands and throw em up at my son to get my attention. Trick. But it explains why you're bartending here and won't last long. Middle finger to ya.

Good room for sound. Was a little heavy on security but it's the time we live in. Plenty of…read morefriendly bartenders so no real wait there. There was a "pit" where a security guy was posted up in the middle of it all, which I thought was strange- but as show progressed it was obvious they were there to help people who fell or were in need to be taken aside even if they didn't know it yet. I'd go again

Great place to hang out, eat and drink with current friends and meet new friends. The vibes are…read morealways amazing. The food and drinks and good. The drinks are expensive and the service depends on how packed the event is or not. There is street parking available. You can also reserve tables or sections when you call ahead. Checkout upcoming events on Eventbrite or their IG page.

I never made it to Work Play and it has already changed to The Gatsby! My friend who is a jazz…read morelover wanted to go since they had a musician in town performing but they don't always have jazz. The vibe was cool and classy. Luckily he made rez so we had a high top table but they also have private / semi - private rooms. Nice cocktails as well as all the other categories of alcohol. I had a yummy espresso martini and friend had a gin based drink that was on the bitter side. We didn't eat but looks like they had some good bites as well. Service was good but a little slow due to busy-ness? Instagramable backgrounds which all new places must have. The one drawback I would say is the parking unless you don't mind paying $10 for valet.

If you're looking for a real nightlife experience in Honolulu, The District Nightclub is easily one…read moreof the best spots to go out. The energy is unmatched. From the moment you walk in, it feels like you've stepped into a mainland-style club, something you don't always get in Hawai'i. The space is huge, with multiple rooms and bars, so it never feels too cramped even when it's packed. What really stands out is the music. The DJs do a great job blending hip-hop, Top 40, and dance tracks, and the vibe naturally builds as the night goes on, starting chill and turning into a full-on party by late night.

ALWAYS such a good time!! Music is fire, people are awesome! Love it here drinks are great as wellread more

I come here every time I'm on Oahu. Wondering happy hour. The staff are always friendly. I ordered…read morethe Kalua Pig Sliders and the Pot Stickers. They were both so delicious! Good vibes in here!

Excellent service, super casual ambiance, and good food…read more Our server Phalakone was so very nice, fast with the orders and the food. She's the epitome of a great human being. We ordered the Tuna poke bowl and the Thai wings. Both of which we're good, filling, and a lovely late afternoon snack. Seating is both indoors and outdoors so find a good place to sit and enjoy time with your friends or family while getting some good grinds.

Love the theme parties here. Went to all white and black attire party. As well as some business…read moreselling events for small business owners. Both parties were amazing and I enjoyed finding new small businesses to support. There are always vendors selling food at their events. You will get to meet new friends and bring your current friends. The service is fast and servers are polite. They do have VIP sections available to purchase. Sometimes they have the ring light setup which is nice for creating your own video. Street parking is available however I highly recommend uber there. Unless in walking distance. You can find events posted on Eventbrite and their IG page.

This was my first time visiting this space! It is much bigger than it looks from the outside. I…read moreattended the Rock 4 Justice music event and it was so much fun! There is full bar service and tall tables to stand around. There were also some lounge areas in the back. Definitely worth going to if there's an event.

Takeout breakfast that includes coffee for $12? Yes! #1 son…read moreand I were looking for a quick bite before heading out for a hike. The food came out quickly and everything was fresh. Very simple but tasty!

I came to this place for breakfast and also at night for live music and cocktails. Let's start with…read morebreakfast, I ordered morning feast which came with salad, eggs, bacon, sausage, toasts and fruit. It tasted healthy but i believe it was a bit overpriced. Service was great and employees are very attentive. They have very cozy interior with small stage. I found out that the have live band at night so I have decided to come back again at night. I ordered old fashioned and it was very good. I also got complimentary popcorn. Music was great, food was good. Will be back.