Bars and Cafes in Waikiki (Honolulu)

Chuck's Cellar

Chuck Rolles, the owner and proprietor of this eatery, has been credited with the creation of the steak and salad bar combination. He opened this particular establishment in 1959, and it has been a fixture of Waikiki ever since. Menus are painted on wine bottles, the steaks are good quality, and the salad selection is extensive. The friendly and unpretentious wait staff is always ready to assist you. Try the slow-roasted prime rib; it's a great dish at a fair price.

Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

San Francisco's legendary Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has plunked down a bit of confection haven in the midst of Waikiki. The decor is almost as sweet as the merchandise, and the aroma of the baking waffle cones is heavenly. If you want superb sundaes, ice-cream cones and chocolate, this is the place to visit. It also offers a good variety of coffee and coffee drinks. All of the treats here are simply wonderful, but be advised, you'll pay a pretty penny.

Duke's Restaurant & Barefoot Bar

The biggest reason everyone gathers at this beachfront restaurant is the music and the patio sunsets. The sound is "Contemporary Hawaiian" and appeals to a youngish demographic. Groups that often play here are Kapena, Makana and Lilikoi Sisters (Friday through Sunday evenings). The food includes fresh fish, burgers and a tasty club sandwich. The atmosphere offers a great beach setting with traditional Hawaiian friendliness. There is a breakfast buffet (USD9.95) and lunch buffet (USD10.50). The adjoining bar is a good place to have a drink before heading back to the beach.

Padovani's Bistro and Wine Bar

Proprietor and executive chef Philippe Padovani was formerly the executive chef of the exclusive Manele Bay Hotel on Lana'i. He opened this gourmet room, located in the DoubleTree Alana Waikiki, and styles it after the finest restaurants in France. The sophisticated decor is dominated by rich woods and carpeting. The separate wine bar upstairs has 40 fine vintages on a cruvinet system—the wine equivalent to beer on tap. Cuisine described as Mediterranean-French/Hawai'i Regional features items such as Maine Lobster in a Lobster Cream Sauce and Pan-fried Scallops with Leeks and Sun-dried Tomatoes.

Mai Tai Bar

Legend has it, the Mai Tai was either invented or perfected here. Fact or fiction: it doesn't really matter. This is a great place to have a drink and relax. Other creative tropical libations include Planters Punch, Navy Grog and the Royal Hawaiian Special. The bar is set in the magnificent old Royal Hawaiian Hotel. From 5:30p to 8:30p each evening, you can relax and take in the mellow Hawaiian music provided by the house band.

Royal Hawaiian Hot Dog

Here is a great place to grab a tasty, inexpensive snack on your way to or from Waikiki Beach. The fare consists of hot dogs, burgers and some lighter fare. The polish dog with sauerkraut or chili is a good choice. The stand also sells the local favorite, Shave Ice, which is a cup of thinly-shaved ice with all kinds of syrup flavors added. The stand is located just between the shopping complex and the grand old Royal Hawaiian Hotel, less than a block from the beach.

Buzz's Steak & Lobster

Relaxed and fun, this place does its best to assure that patrons have a good time. There is a wide selection of entrees and a good salad bar. The staff is pleasant and laid-back. Children are welcome, and there's live music every night. While steak and lobster are the main menu items, there's plenty of variety. Fresh local seafood is always a good bet. The salad bar features locally grown produce.

Angles Waikiki

Crazy, loud and fun, this is the hub of the Honolulu alternative lifestyles scene for tourists. It features nightly drink specials and live shows, complete with female impersonation and rowdy hijinks. There is also nightly dancing to a very eclectic music mix; live music is featured on the weekends. They have a nightly contest that's hilarious; if you participate, be prepared to be ribbed and teased mercilessly. The "Eye Opener" special, served on weekdays, offers pastries and coffee drinks for $1.50. There is no cover charge. Call for a complete schedule.

Kimo Bean Coffee Co

Sleek, chic and modern, this is the perfect place to grab a latte or a mochaccino at any time of day or night. This store was the first Kimo's location and has been open for seven years. In addition to all the standard espresso drinks (latte, cappucino, mocha,) this store features an extensive list of blended specialties. The menu offers plenty of iced drinks meant to combat Oahu's high temperatures. Bagels, muffins and pastries are also sold.

All Star Hawaii

Hawaiian sports are the theme at this family restaurant. Surfboards owned by stars such as Kelly Slater are prominently displayed at the entrance, and canoes and kayaks hang from the ceiling. The establishment has 38 TV screens, video games, and an Internet connection for Web surfing. Live music is presented three nights a week at around 7pm. The menu is standard American fare: sandwiches, burgers, etc. ($5-14). For dessert, there's an outrageous selection of ice cream sundaes.

Planet Hollywood Honolulu

This worldwide chain of theme restaurants is a bit hit-and-miss, but the Waikiki location is a winner, especially with Waikiki visitors. Browse tons of Tinseltown memorabilia and choose from a great menu of entrees ranging from meats to seafood. The Caesar Salad is especially good, and the tempting dessert offerings are numerous. The full bar has a decent beer selection and an unremarkable wine list. There is live music and dancing every Friday and Saturday evening starting at 9p.

Godfather's Spinners Fun Bar & Grill

Waikiki's work force gathers here to wind down after flashing the Aloha spirit for eight or more hours each day. The beer is ice-cold and, during the 11a to 7p happy hour, draft beers cost a mere $1.75. Also, there are a number of complete meals priced under $10. Burgers, chicken, fish and salad are all tasty choices. Entertainment includes Karaoke, darts, video games and live satellite sports broadcasts. If you're a fan of outdoor dining, there's a large tropical patio.