Hawaii happens to be our nation’s romance capital, so it’s no surprise that Paradise is home to some of the best wine bars around. From upscale resort bars to smaller, more casual markets, these wine bars are perfect for date night, vacations with friends, or as a spot to unwind and watch the sunset after a busy week.
Whether you are in the mood for a great value glass of wine at Happy Hour, or a splurge on a Turley or Freemark Abbey, Amuse Wine Bar has got you covered. The vibe is lounge-style, with live music nightly from 7-9 p.m., and there are over 80 wines to choose from across all varietals. You can also buy a wine card that gives you the ability to sample many different wines by the ounce, along with the option to purchase wines by the bottle. Many customers describe it as the perfect ambience for date night, so if you are looking for a cozy spot for two, you’ve found the right bar.
The Aloha Wine Bar is a small area attached to a market and deli and is one of the few late-night spots near the Kohala resort area on the big island. Although it’s fairly casual, it is a good place to come and enjoy a nice glass of wine without having to drive all the way into town.
Merriman’s is upscale dining with one the island’s most beautiful sunset views. The menu is massive and everything is done very well here. The wine program is focused on supporting smaller scale, family-run wineries with more focus on organic production and sustainable practices. Ask the sommelier to help you choose the perfect wine to complement your meal and enjoy the amazing scenery.
La Spezia does a great job with both brunch and dinner and the wine list is extensive. Another restaurant that specializes in Italian, you’ll find bruschetta, arancini and antipasti to start, followed by entrees ranging from pastas to veal scallopini. The wine list has sections dedicated to Italian whites and Italian reds, with varietals from other countries listed in another section. The knowledgeable staff will certainly help you choose the perfect complement to your dish.
This wine bar on Kauai’s north shore specializes in wines from “small, esoteric wineries from around the world” and strives to provide customers with an authentic and unpretentious tasting experience. The menu provides simple appetizers and flatbreads and you can choose from glasses, flights or bottles to purchase. Cheese and wine tastings are common, and contact them about private events!