Izakaya Pau Hana Base

A local gem of a culinary experience off a side street in Waikiki. It is authentic as any Izakaya I've been to (and I've been to Japan a few times). Clearly a place with regulars and a great variety of local small bites from noodles to grilled fish and chicken items. Good saki ($10 a glass) and beers. A place to hang out and talk story with friends or to make new ones and the people running it are quite friendly.

Managed to call in an impromptu reservation an hour ahead and so glad we did! Atmosphere and food 10/10. LOVED the unagi don, miso beef intestines, jellyfish, and the bbq squid which was probably the best squid of my life - practically buttery! The only thing I wouldn't reorder would be the oolong Japanese cocktail which tasted just like a plain iced oolong with the barest whisper of alcohol at the end. Definitely the place to come for a long time with friends or family and continuously order so you get to sample a lot over a sustained period of time :) cheers!

Very pleasant surprise. We did a to-go order, it took ~30 min to get our food. We’ll definitely order again or come dine at the restaurant. We loved the kaarage, the croquettes, the gyozas, and the grilled squid. Cannot wait to eat them again soon! We felt indifferent a about the yakitori, it was blend… won’t order it again.

My sister and I eat here every chance we get. The food is so delicious and fresh! This is real traditional Japanese food, prepared with love. The grilled mackerel was our favorite, but the takoyaki and ebi shumai were delicious as well. (It’s all really fresh, so careful not to burn your mouth!) Get there early, as the line can get a little long. The price is very reasonable for the area, so if you’re on a budget and want to try traditional faire, this is the spot for you. We have travelled to Japan on several occasions, and this spot was the closest we’ve found in the US so far that really captures the feel of Japan. We will definitely be back to try more of the menu!