First Friday

EPISODE 2: FIRST FRIDAY

Aloha First Friday!

FirstFridayHawaii.com

First Friday is a monthly event that brings culture, art, galleries, shops, restaurants, and entertainment to the people of Honolulu in Chinatown. From 5pm-9pm you can enjoy art galleries, museums, local crafts, and entertainment. After 9pm chinatown turns into a trendy/ popular nightlife scene. We have come up with some of the best spots to check out when going to first friday, as well as some extra tips!

Museums/Art Venues There are many galleries and art museums located in downtown/Chinatown. First friday is a great opportunity for many of the artists to showcase their work ranging from historical, to contemporary art. All located within a few blocks, the "gallery walk" is an evening where many galleries open later and treat all the artsy people on the island. Here are a few suggestions when going to Chinatown: 

• Andrew Rose Gallery- Features contemporary art 5-9pm

• Christy Fujii Gallery- Features natural art and paintings

• FLOTERIOR- Features floral themes and an eclectic vibe. Visit from 11am-9pm

• Hawaii State Art Museum-Dedicated to preserving the culture of Hawai'i. Visit 10am-4pm.

• Louis Pohl Gallery-Featuers a collection of Hawai'is artists.

• onG-kinG artS centeR-Features art more on the creative side and offer classes.

• Thirtyninehotel-Showcases modern art and music.

Bars/ Clubs/ Restaurants

Downtown/chinatown has it all when it comes to different kinds of cuisine, and nightlife! Below are our favorite spots to checkout if your ever in the area. We have even added some hidden gems...you’re welcome ;)

BambuTwo Cafe and Martini Lounge

http://www.bambutwo.com

BambuTwo is by far my most favorite place to grab a martini. This modern lounge has indoor/outdoor seating & serve $3.50 martinis until 2 am ! Score!



BAR 35

http://www.bar35hawaii.com

Awesome food, and over 100 beers on tap! Very stylish and have a happy hour from 4pm-8pm.

Downbeat Diner and Lounge 

3 things..grilled cheese sandwich, orange dreamsicle drink, and black and white old films. What’s not to love about Downbeat Diner. This American inspired diner serves classic favorites as well as a vegan menu.

Brasserie Du Vin

 http://www.brasserieduvin.com

Their French-inspired menu includes salads, soups, seafood, steaks and more. Live jazz weekly! 

Thirtyninehote

http://www.thirtyninehotel.com

Ok people, this is a little hidden gem in the heart of Chinatown, right next to Bar35. If you go up a flight of dodgy stairs, you come to a lovely bar on the rooftop.It has a Candlelit patio area, and has a hipster vibe. Good place to grab a drink with your friends.

Manifest

http://www.ManifestHawaii.com

If your looking for fun music and a big crowd, manifest delivers. This popular spot transforms into a modern dance club by night.

Lotus

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  Lotus has electronica dance music, and has two different rooms with two DJs. Lotus has a classy ambiance, and has AMAZING street food in front of the entrance. This hidden jewel also allows the back room to be rented out for bottle service.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Parking

Honestly, it’s best to cab it to downtown especially if you plan on having a drink or two. If not, here is a link to the parking map for first friday.

http://www.firstfridayhawaii.com/d/d/parking-downtown-chinatown.html

Tips

Most places charge a $10.00 cover on first friday, and most place have a $15.00 minimum on tabs. So if you don't want to spend a lot on drinks..bring cash!!