Waterfront Plaza’s Open-Air Bar Reopens Today as The Row Kaka‘ako

Photo: Courtesy of The Row Kaka‘ako

Waterfront Plaza is home to restaurants, offices, Hawai‘i Pacific University classrooms—and as of Friday, March 7, the grand reopening of what was formerly known as Row Bar. Now under new ownership, The Row Kaka‘ako has been given some TLC with a new draft system and other updates.

First, the beer selection has shifted from the big boys to our local breweries. “We’ll be keeping the styles changing monthly, but the breweries will all be there. Some favorites are Hana Koa Brewing, Aloha Beer Co. and Howzit Brewing. If you make beer in Kaka‘ako, The Row Kaka‘ako will pour it,” says new co-owner Daniel Bruce. You’ll also find Maui Brewing, Lanikai Brewing, Koholā Brewery and others, plus Guinness on nitro year-round and a rotation of Belgian beers.

The new draft system has 14 taps. There’ll be live music weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m., and TV screens will show games.

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I’ve always enjoyed this place as one of the few truly outdoor bars in the urban and governmental area of the city. The location is perfect for waiting out the after-work rush for a drink and fresh air. Talking story with Bruce, I learned that he worked at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Waterfront Plaza and Row Bar’s predecessor, Bambu Martini Bar, more than 20 years ago. Business partner Jake Vela also co-owns TJ’s Sports Bar & Grill a few blocks away.

“I’ve always come here to pau hana with friends and coworkers after long nights at work,” Bruce says. “We’ve been taking care of the people who live and work in this area for so long, it felt like fate to take it over.”

While The Row Kaka‘ako won’t have a kitchen, you can bring in food from nearby eateries including Aloha Mamacita, Rainbow BBQ and Island Sausage. Bruce’s go-to pairing is Kainalu Poke’s smoke meat/spicy ‘ahi combo with a Westmalle Dubbel. Check out waterfrontplazahawaii.com for a full list of restaurants.

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Monthly cigar events in partnership with Fujioka’s Wine Times are coming; watch for updates on The Row Kaka‘ako’s Instagram. The bar will validate parking in the complex for up to 3½ hours.

Says Bruce, “Jake and I are dedicated to creating a space in this community that everyone can come together and enjoy the things they love: Good beer. Good friends. Good vibes.”

Open daily 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., 500 Ala Moana Blvd., @therowkakaako