RM 38 Bar feels like stepping into a "Crazy Rich Asian" hidden gem moody lighting, stylish interiors, and a tucked-away vibe that makes it feel special from the moment you walk in. The atmosphere is intimate and elevated, perfect for a date night or a chill evening out. It has that "secret spot" energy in Honolulu where everything feels a bit more exclusive without being intimidating. The cocktails are a standout. There are so many options on the menu, from classic drinks to creative house specials, and everything feels thoughtfully made. It's one of those places where you actually slow down just to decide what to try next. The food adds an unexpected twist Asian-inspired dishes like fried frog legs with sweet and sour sauce. It was something new and surprising, but the crispy texture and tangy flavor made it a fun and memorable experience. Overall, RM 38 Bar is a true hidden gem: great cocktails, adventurous bites, and a vibe that feels stylish, fun, and a little bit luxurious all at once. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Had such a great experience at R38. This speakeasy has such a cool atmosphere. The vibe feels intimate and trendy and it's the perfect spot for drinks and small bites. Definitely make a reservation because it gets busy fast, especially later in the night. The food was surprisingly affordable for the quality and everything we tried was delicious. We got the chicken karaage, beef takoyaki, and the taro chips with mascarpone and all of it was amazing. The chicken karaage was flavorful, the beef takoyaki was tasty, and the taro chips with mascarpone were nicely paired with the drinks. Drinks, food, atmosphere, and service were all on point. One of my favorite spots I visited and I'd absolutely come back again. read more

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We dropped by speakeasy RM 38 (Room 38) inside the Imperial Hotel on Lewers in Waikīkī. We were very glad we did. The owner is Steve Aoki, of Aoki Group, and son of daredevil and entrepreneur, Rocky Aoki. The staff were super nice. The brunette (Ellie?) working Sat, 4/25 was super friendly, and worked her ass off. The Azn fellow who also took care of us let us look at the bottles of special bourbon we drank: Four Roses & Blantons both tr the Aoki Collection. Regarding the ambiance its whimsical inside. I didn't look on the lanai, but I understand you can smoke cigars out there. The background music was jazz and the occasional Motown hit (Stylistics). My cuz who lives in Kaimukī has neva been to RM 38. I promised to add him to the res next time. Its a lot easier to get in vs another speakeasy in Chinatown, and its walking distance from where I always stay at the Moana. read more

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$$$ Drinks: 4/5 Appetizers: 3/5 Topped inside and at the bottom of a hotel. Next to an ABC. Had no reservations, but highly recommend making reservations. If you're in the area, though, I would still give it a shot to try to get some seats because ambience is undefeated. Every piece and design in this bar is chef's kiss. I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in this environment. Bartenders and servers were genuinely kind. Blueberry drink (from newer and temporary specials): 3/5 tasted too much like ginger for me. It was refreshing, but where was the blueberry? Old fashioned: 4/5 boyfriend who loves old fashions said it was very smokey. We loved how they smoke it in front of you. The cheese and salami on skewer were a nice and fun surprise. Crispy Ahi Bites: 2/5 this was just strange if you didn't tell me what I ordered and I just guessed from tasting it. I would've guessed that someone fed me some fried meatballs I would have had no idea it was tuna, but it sure was fishy. Neither of us were happy with this plate. The only flavor to this plate was a fishy essence, despite having that mayo sauce included. If you're in Waikiki, definitely stop by this place. There's not too many seatings so groups of around four or less are best for this place any bigger and I think you might be booking out this whole place. I heard people around us really like the wabisabi drink, which is their most refreshing drink according to bartender. read more

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Cool atmosphere inside. Make sure to book reservations as it does fill up. Nice cocktails and seevice. Mocktails was good too per the non drinker in our party. Big selection of single barrel bourbon choices as well. read more

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My favorite speakeasy in Oahu! Make a resy & check them out! My hubs & I came here for my birthday & had an amazing time! Service was superb- professional, friendly, great recommendations & wonderful photographers (thank you!) We each got a complimentary glass of champagne & enjoyed several cocktails. They were made perfectly, delicious & strong. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Amazing staff just as friendly and cool as can be. Great setup, lots of beautiful bottles to chose from and admire. You're getting smoked drinks and cocktails too. The prices were very good. Comparatively to other markups on the island, bourbon seemed to be very well priced compared to mainland prices. A++ read more

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A hidden gem! So glad I found this speakeasy. Ambience inside is super cozy. Service was fast. Drink were delicious. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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This is another (deliberately) hidden gem. Disguised as a pawn shop, you ask to see the "special collection" and you are ushered into an intimate space that accommodates about 18 people. The special part is that they have quite a few of the Aoki whiskey selections, as well as a fully stocked cocktail bar. read more

RM 38 - The bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I never knew Room 38 existed until my buddy showed me to it. I've been to, and stayed at, the Imperial Hotel on Lewers St in Waikiki many times, but simply walked past the entrance by the elevators without realizing what it was. The lighted sign by the entrance says "Pawn Shop - Rm 38", so I must say that the hidden speakeasy concept works really well. My buddy said he didn't know about it until the bartender at Ruth's, across the street, told him about it. It's a hidden gem, run by the Aoki Group (think Benihana, Doraku, etc.), and is a really neat, secluded spot where customers can enjoy craft cocktails, specialty whiskeys, wine, liquors, unique dining dishes, and even a cigar or two, if you're into that. The menu is pretty extensive and the service is excellent. The servers and manager can guide you thru the night, and their menu, to ensure that you have the best experience possible. It's certainly a spot that is worth the trip, and I know we'll be back soon. read more

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Located in the Imperial Hotel, across the street from Yard House in Waikiki. Look for the ABC store, walk into the lobby of the Imperial Hotel. Stick to the left, go towards the elevators, you'll see a sign that says Pawn Shop and some steps. That's it! It's a speakeasy disguised as a pawn shop. There's 2 seating rooms, a bar, and an outside area. Dim lighting. Not crowded if you go early. Heard it gets crowded later in the night. Food is good. The taro chips is a must try. The Karaage chicken is good, but it's more like teriyaki chicken. Didn't care much for the crispy ahi bites. It's cooked ahi, which is why I didn't like it. No mock-tails on the menu. But they can make them. Staff is nice and friendly. read more

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Overall experience was excellent! Friendly greeting from the start from Curtis, professionally-composed, Ellie our waitress was quick on her toes and never skipped a beat, to even the bartender, Stewart who also came by our table to check on us, and briefly met the owner. This place gives the sophisticated, intimate and cozy atmosphere, which makes it even more interesting. We nibbled on the Truffle Popcorn, Takoyaki and Crispy Ahi Bites which was delicious! Old fashioned 5/5 and wine selection 5/5 Highly recommend for mature adults read more

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Very chic location, relaxing, sophisticated vibe with flavorful cocktails that are strong but subtle tasting. Food also really good. Service is good and friendly but not intrusive. Place to relax, people watch and soak up the vibe. If you can't find it, ask around, Google maps is a little vague read more

A very cool speakeasy den with maximalist vintage decor and excellent cocktails. The complementary truffle popcorn overdoes it on the truffles, though - you have been warned. The only drag was the music. We were seated at the Frank Sinatra table, but were we treated to Rat Pack jazz? No we were not. We were subjected to Yacht Rock. And Hotel California. I hate the fucking Eagles, man! Still worth sticking around for a couple rounds. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Looking for a cool spot to check out while in Waikiki? THIS is THE spot. Welcome to a hidden gem in the Imperial: Pawn Shop Room 38! How amazing that our impromptu visit to Doraku for some Lychee martinis would lead us here!? Mahalo to Ryan & Kilo for recommending this spot. Tonight makes night #2 visiting Rm 38; we are having Smoky Old Fashions (yum) and enjoying a cigar (yes, coming from this anti-smoker...the Crazy Alice is delish!!!). Since we are staying across the street at Embassy Suites, this spot makes it perfect for us, as we can easily make our way back to our room without a fuss. Located next to the ABC Store on Lewers, this spot is easy to not see. One must enter the Imperial hotel and walk towards the neon Pawn shop sign to enter. Wait for Curtis to help you--or ring the doorbell before entering. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a beautiful space dimly lit in red hues and carpet. The bar boasts of an Aoki whiskey collection, as well as other well-known brands, such as Makers. The playlist is spot on and goes with the vibe. Their list of Small Bites range from caviar to Beef Tataki to Cold Clams. Yum! We'd recommend ordering a smoky old fashion. The staff here is friendly and knowledgeable with all things whiskey and cigar related. Customer service and on point and you will not be disappointed. If you're lucky to get Stuart or Curtis, you're in for a treat! Highly recommend this spot and we can't wait to come back! read more

RM 38 - Mood bar for the perfect place to chill - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

My husband found this spot while looking for something fun to do that wouldn't be too touristy. This hidden bar is located inside the Imperial Hawaii Resort and when you first walk in you'll be greeted with what looks like a little pawn shop. Inside is a moody bar where you can grab a seat at the bar, a booth or a table. It's not huge, but will be able to accomodate a good amount of people once it becomes more popular. We stopped in earlier in the night and had the bar to ourselves for a while, which added to our experience. In Waikiki it's so busy and touristy that it was nice to feel like we had the place mostly to ourselves. The bartenders were very friendly and we were able to explore a few of the specialty drinks during our visit. We tried the Wabisabi ($17), Dragon Lady ($17), Localvore Mai Thai ($18), Limelight ($20), and 38 Old Fashioned ($22). The cocktails were on the more expensive side, but given the speakeasy experience and the drink quality it was a nice treat. Aside from the specialty cocktails they had a wide selection of options including hard to find options. This is definitely a spot to treat yourself or impress a date, client, or to celebrate. I would definitely stop in again for a drink or two. read more

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What a hidden gem! From the outside you wouldn't know it was here. Looks like a closed pawn shop but inside is really nice. Everyone that works there is amazing! It's our new local spot. If you like old fashioned you gotta try their rm 38 old fashioned. It's one of the best I've had. They also have a large selection of whiskeys and scotches. Aside from the drinks the service is why I keep coming back! Braddah Curt, Ruby, Lady, Ellie they're all awesome! Definitely try it out. Just walk in and ring the bell! I forgot to mention they also have a good selection of cigars and they set you up nicely outside.! read more

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Reading all the reviews and what they had to offer, we decided to spend our anniversary here. Entering this speakeasy was pretty cool, you'll need to ring the bell for service if no one is in the front. Great little area for photo opportunities as well. As you enter to get seated, thy recommend ringing the bell or hitting the bell to let people know you're entering. As we got seated, Stuart brought out the menu and offered us the truffle popcorn. This menu has all type of drinks and if you're into whiskey, then this is the place. It's packed with lots of allocated whiskey that you are able to try per glass. They also offer other mix drinks as well. Also a small menu of appetizers. We ordered a few different appetizers, but they didn't have the frog legs that my wife wanted to try. We got some chicken karage and beef tataki. Along side these, I believe it was the manager on duty (sorry forgot his name) but he was bringing out more truffle popcorn and special shrimp chips to try. He also brought out champagne to celebrate our special night. Wife ended up ordering a few mixed drinks, forgot what she ordered and forgot to take pics of it. But I did get to order a GTS 24, Russell 15, and JD12 (they didn't have the JD14 at the time). All whiskey was delicious. Towards the end of the night, the manager also brought us some special strawberries and chocolate. Overall I would highly recommend this place. It's a great place to hang out with friends or other halves and just drink the night away with special cocktails for everyone and if you're into whiskey like myself, then this is heaven for you. Pricing for glasses of whiskey is usually reasonable as well. Customer service is on point, Stuart our host and waiter was on point. Explained the different whiskey and what he would he drink and such. The manager on duty was also great. I would highly come back again read more

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Very aesthetically pleasing cocktail bar located right in Waikiki with an outside cigar lounge and tons of options to choose from. The servers here are very attentive and have great knowledge of cigars with liquor pairings. Every time I come here im welcomed and shown care. Thank you. I will back soon! read more

RM 38 is such a cool little hidden spot. It really feels like you're in on a secret when you walk in. You'll find the entrance inside Surfjack Hotel then head to the lobby, look for the unmarked door near the back, and give the buzzer a ring. Someone will let you in if there's space. The vibe inside is dark, cozy, and just the right mix of laid back and classy. I kicked things off with their Old Fashioned. Super smooth and perfectly balanced, probably one of the better ones I've had in Hawaii. Then I tried the Dragon Lady and wow... totally different flavor profile but amazing in its own way. Strong, flavorful, and a little dangerous in the best way. The bartenders know their stuff and are easy to chat with. This isn't the kind of place to rush through a drink. It's where you hang out, relax, and enjoy cocktails done right. Definitely recommend checking it out if you're into speakeasies or just want a fun night with quality drinks. read more

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A fantastic speakeasy with a comfortable outdoor smoking area. It's a fantastic place to have a cigar in Waikīkī. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Good cocktails. It's behind the pawnshop door INSIDE THE IMPERIAL HOTEL. Ignore the lock. Just go on in. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Everything! Dusky red Asian ambiance, prompt easy happy service. I had the smoked 38 Old Fashioned...a pure delight. Watching Aoki mixology was mesmerizing read more

February 8th, 2026 -- 6:30 PM. The night was still young when we arrived. A light drizzle hung in the air at first, then quietly disappeared as the wind calmed and the evening settled into something special. I was here with my father, and together we experienced one of those rare nights that reminds you why places like this matter. RM 38 at The Pawn Shop isn't just somewhere you go -- it's an experience. When we rang the doorbell, we were greeted by Kurtis, who asked if we were here for The Pawn Shop. When I replied "the cigar bar," he jokingly told us there was no cigar bar here -- then immediately smiled and welcomed us in. That playful warmth set the tone for the entire evening. Kurtis guided us through the cigar selection, and we ended up choosing the last Bottom Betty in the case, which felt perfectly fitting. He expertly cut our cigars, and from that moment on, everything flowed effortlessly. Elle, our server, delivered truly top-tier service. Warm, attentive, and genuinely kind, she treated us -- and every guest who arrived -- like family. That level of hospitality is rare, and it made the night feel personal and unhurried. The food was exceptional: * Chicken karaage -- crispy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced * Beef tataki -- clean, elegant, and beautifully prepared * Pork belly bao buns -- rich, tender, and indulgent in the best way Both my father and I enjoyed bourbon flights, each featuring Russell's Reserve, Elijah Craig, and Maker's Mark. Thoughtfully curated pours that encouraged conversation, comparison, and appreciation -- the kind of detail that elevates an evening from good to unforgettable. Between the cigars, whiskey, music, and intimate nighttime atmosphere, RM 38 strikes a perfect balance. It's just as ideal for a solo bourbon moment as it is for sharing meaningful time with family. The location feels like a hidden gem, the pricing reflects the quality without pretension, and the overall vibe is friendly, relaxed, and effortlessly cool. This is the kind of place where conversations deepen, cigars burn just right, and memories are made. We had an incredible night -- and judging by the tip we left, the appreciation was mutual. RM 38 has earned a lifelong customer. Highly recommended. read more

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Room 38 Speakeasy, Lewers Street, Waikiki is exactly the kind of place you hope to find after a night out. We revisited around 9:00 PM and ended up staying until 1:00 AM, which says a lot. It is not the easiest place to find, which only adds to the speakeasy charm. Once inside, you are greeted in a small waiting area with velvet curtains before being shown to your table. The space is intimate, uniquely decorated, and full of character, old leather chairs, cozy nooks for quiet conversations, and a fully stocked bar that will impress even serious bourbon drinkers. The room was full of locals and tourists alike, yet still felt relaxed and inviting. Pro tip: make a reservation, we saw very few empty seats the entire time we were there. Cocktails were on point. I started with the No. 38 Old Fashioned, which arrived smoky and full of flavor, and then moved straight into neat pours from their bourbon list, which includes some hard-to-find bottles at very reasonable prices. The bartender, Lady (yes, that is her name), did a great job crafting drinks for the rest of our group and everyone enjoyed what they ordered. They also offer cigars and have a smoke room in the back, which we did not take advantage of this visit, but definitely will next time. The only thing keeping this from five stars was service pacing. Our server was friendly and knowledgeable, but we had to remind him about drink orders a few times and our food arrived later than expected. Big picture, it did not ruin the night because the cocktails, vibe, and atmosphere were excellent. Room 38 is great for a night out with friends or an intimate evening with that special someone. If you enjoy well-made cocktails, a strong bourbon selection, and a moody speakeasy feel, this spot is absolutely worth checking out. We will be back. read more

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I love a good speakeasy, but some things I love more than a speakeasies are: A bar with a fantastic whiskey selection A bar with a patio for cigars And RM 38 fortunately has all 3! I found this place like looking up whiskey bars while in HNL, and when I found out this was part of the Aoki group, I knew it was a must go to. So much so, that we went twice during our short trip. First off, the selection: a wide variety of highly allocated and coveted bottles at fair prices. The real treat, however, are the barrel picks that they do. The last time I was in HNL, we went to a different restaurant that was part of the group and they had some great barrel picks. This time there were even more, and the ones I tried (Weller Full Proof, Russell's Reserve, Rare Character) were all great. I even had to buy a bottle of the Russell's and Rare Character. The cocktails were pretty good too. My wife had tired several of their cocktails, and they were all delicious. Second, cigars: the cigar patio is small, but big enough for a couple of groups of people to go out and smoke a cigar. It even has a cover for those random Hawaiian rains, which was clutch since it was raining off and on while we were on the patio. They also have a nice variety of cigars by the entrance. I wish I had gotten to try the Aoki reserve. Finally, the staff, the ambiance, etc: the staff was as friendly as can be, with true Hawaiian hospitality. Our server (I'm blanking on his name) was really great with his suggestions and service. The ambiance was lovely, as it did feel like a true speakeasy, especially with the location inside of a hotel. The food was pretty good, too. We loved the truffle popcorn and the beef tataki paired really well with the pours I had. Will definitely be back during our next trip to HNL! read more

"Hidden" gem in the heart of Waikiki! Was looking for something new and it's so great I found this place This speakeasy nails the perfect blend of mystery, atmosphere, and top-tier cocktails. From the moment you step inside, it feels like you've been transported back in time -- intimate dark lighting, smooth music, and bartenders who are truly artists. Every drink is crafted with care. They specialize in scotch, whiskeys and bourbons, but were able to go beyond just that. A must-visit if you're looking for something beyond the usual Waikiki bar scene. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Oh the bourbon selection!!!!! BEST on the island! They also have a cool thing where you can buy the whole bottle and keep it in the "owners" cabinet, and take it out to drink when you come back! I so loved the vibe, and intimate feel. Great service and they try to make it personal for you! The only reason I gave it 4stars is they need to expand the mix drink knowledge. Maybe get a mixologist that has the knowledge of how to make cocktails with your most amazing selection, and not just the very basic drinks. read more

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A speakeasy in Waikiki? Sure, why not! Nestled inside the hotel and next to an abc store, this place hidden well. Decor was cute and quaint. Service: friendly wait staff Ambiance: 5/5 Cocktails: cute and tasty wi Ty beautiful garnish though, not strong. Price: $20ish cocktails read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great new cigar and whiskey bar in Waikiki, inside the Imperial, by the same peeps of 1938 Indochine in Kaka'ako. They have a smoking area in the back, that's still primitive, but can see it get better in time. Just no complaints about da loud AC units around...been warned here. Good to know your cigars before you go, they have valet parking that's inexpensive for Waikiki, great service and drink selection. Some pupus but not good for dinner. read more

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When you think "speakeasy", this is a it. Room 38 was our last stop on my birthday speakeasy tour with onoliciousfoodtours.com. Located in the lobby of the Imperial Hotel in Lewers, it is disguised as a pawn shop. We went on a Sunday night around 9pm. It was not crowded at all and we sat out party of 11 comfortably. We fit in great with our "gangster" theme. We had a few drinks and their truffle popcorn. It was the perfect place to end the night. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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First time checking this place out and it did not disappoint! February drink special Cupid's Kiss was yummy. Also loved Broken Record and the wide range of whisky options. As for the food - the atsuage tofu was so good. Also like the karaage chicken and truffle popcorn. Great service and free valet parking with validation. read more

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Best speakeasy on the island by far. I was there for a month, and this was one of the highlights of the trip. Service is phenomenal and personable. Ambiance is SUCH a vibe as soon as you walk up, from the decor to the music! Must try read more

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Loved this hidden gem. Tucked in the back of the Imperial Hawaii Resort you will be pleasantly surprised by this speakeasy lounge/bar. The inside is beautiful and the bar has an impressive selection of whiskey and other spirits. We enjoyed quite fair priced premium cigars, cocktails and small bites out in the back outside lounge. Our server Stewart gave us superb service. We are thrilled this gem is here in Waikiki and plan to frequent it when here. Cheers! read more

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I went to RM 38 for a Macallan whiskey tasting event that I thought was limited to only 17 people but I think the accommodated a few extras. The service was amazing and the owner came around to introduce himself and drink with us. There is definitely a speakeasy feel with small tables and small bites. Unfortunately, parking can be a challenge so Uber is recommended. Calling ahead and making a reservation specially if you're more than a couple people is strongly recommended. Definitely worth checking out! read more

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Love this new hidden gem. Speakeasy done right. Better make reservations because space it limited and we love the top notch service. Classy and hipster done to the T. We had dinner before hand so we didn't get to order anything extra. But the popcorn and Taro chips with Cheese dip was just enough to pair with our drinks. Love the music, lighting. Make it memorable read more

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They had excellent service, friendly staff and made some amazing cocktails. I really recommend this place if you're looking for an intimate night in Honolulu. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This is a very new speakeasy (open just a few months). Make a reservation to be sure you get in. Hidden in a good way within the Imperial. Looks like a pawn shop but is far from it! A very chill vibe with great art and fantastic cocktails. Try the truffle popcorn. And if you like cigars, that's out back. Thank for the great service, Ty and team. read more

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This place is great! The bartenders are friendly & helpful. I enjoyed the drink selection options & small bites. Tried a couple of items and they were delicious! I'll definitely be back! read more

Great new speakeasy bar in Waikiki in Imperial hotel. Love the decor here and the vibes! Great drink menu too! Friendly staff and great service. read more

RM 38 - Speakeasies Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Cool speakeasy inside the Imperial Hotel--hidden behind a fake pawn shop. Amazing drinks! read more

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