Sporting Good Times
Illustration: Jeff Sanner
By Matthew Wells
Find the perfect place to catch the game.
Buffalo Wild Wings
The Vibe: There’s a reason why the BWW franchise is so popular, it’s a casual, family-friendly place that combines a restaurant with a sports bar and serves both sides with an extra helping of televisions. The message is simple: we’re all fans, so let’s have some fun. Their menu feels like a professional tailgate and, of course, they specialize in chicken wings varying in flavor and heat from an easy complement to inducing a very masculine sobbing (so I’ve been told).
Good to Know: Throw on your team’s jersey, some slippers, and go with a group of friends, you’ll have the most fun that way. But be ready to wait for a table, because everyone else is bringing their group of friends, too! Parking is limited in the Discovery Bay Center, but not too bad and only costs a dollar with validation.
1778 Ala Moana Blvd. [C:3 Waikiki Map]
(808) 983-3933
www.buffalowildwings.com
Rivals
Photo courtesy of Rivals
The Vibe: A cool and unique take on the local watering hole due to its dual identity as a sports bar by day and “ultra-lounge” by night. A solid drink menu branches into more exotic cocktails, set to the backdrop of mellow blue track lighting and an impressive selection of sports memorabilia on the walls that’s on sale for the serious collector. Depending on what day or night you’re here, you could see your favorite team on at least one of 12 TVs, live music, dancing, or have a relaxed night with a few regulars.
Good to Know: The entrance is on Kuhio Avenue, but if you’re driving, aim for Lewers Street and make sure to get validated—it’s just $1 per hour! No strict dress code here—casual attire is fine for the day, but make an effort when the sun goes down. If there’s an event, find out on their website and dress for that.
2211 Kuhio Ave. [B:7 Waikiki Map]
(808) 923-0600
www.rivalslounge.com
Yard House
Photo courtesy of Yard House
The Vibe: This is your sports bar/restaurant with a higher-end feel. There’s an extensive menu of food and drinks that keep both the dining area and the sizable bar full. Plenty of TVs to catch the game on, but it’s more an addition than the main focus. This bar is built to socialize, so peak times can get loud enough to drown out the play-by-plays. It’s a fun and lively place to try a gourmet burger and you can come back time and time again without filling up your beer passport.
Good to Know: Without having a strict dress code, there’s definitely a sense that a little effort is appreciated. When looking in your mirror, think “non-scrub.” If driving, valet park at the Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk and get validated for $6.
Waikiki Beach Walk
226 Lewers St. [C:7 Waikiki Map]
(808) 923-9273
www.yardhouse.com
Round Table Pizza
The Vibe: Set up for the sports fan who wants to settle in comfortably and watch five jumbo screens and the fan looking to belly up to the bar and commiserate about next season, Round Table Pizza feels like if Cheers had franchised into your living room. There’s a wide drink selection, but their food menu is pretty focused—as it should be! Their pizza menu is comfort food under melted cheese. Bring your appetite and your armchair league to call out plays!
Good to Know: Dress code? Just get in here and enjoy, already! It’s located in central Waikiki, which can make parking a hassle, but park in the Outrigger East Hotel and get validated for a deal.
150 Kai‘ulani Ave. [B:9 Waikiki Map]
(808) 944-1199
www.roundtablepizza.com
Da Big Kahuna Restaurant and Tiki Lounge
The Vibe: Keeping the kitschy tiki bar alive in Waikiki, you’ll feel wildly appropriate ordering a Lava Flow under the spinning disco ball and the watchful gaze of massive tiki idols. TVs dot the main dining area, with more in the sunken bar overlooking Kuhio Avenue. The menu is standard bar fare with the addition of some local favorites served plate-lunch style. Stick around after the game and you may find DJs, live music or karaoke night. No frills, the atmosphere is what you make it.
Good to Know: You’ll feel right in place whether dressed for a nightclub or walking in straight off the beach.
2299 Kuhio Ave. [B:8 Waikiki Map]
(808) 923-0033
