Genius Lounge

Came here at 7:30pm to catch the HH special. We ordered the 2 drinks, garlic shrimp, and garlic fries from the HH menu. The price was reasonable and the food was good. The portion for the garlic fries was generous. The fries does not taste like the regular french fries. It was on the soft side and it had a lot of garlic in them. It was not bad but it was just different than we had tasted in other places. The garlic shrimp was tasty and fresh except it has shells, so you would have to peel them.

Super cute and quiet lounge/​bar. They have inside and outside balcony seating. It’s not noisy which makes for a great place to chill and have a few drinks, good food and conversations. Their happy hour is only from 6 – 8. Ate the kailua pork nachos which was amazing. The chips tasted home made and we’re light and crisp. It came with a side of mango salsa, which I didn’t get to eat because I am allergic. The portion was also generous. The workers were friendly and didn’t rush us through our meal just to get the table like most places. Will definitely come back again.

Great atmosphere that (for better/​worse) can be easily missed by the casual tourist. Ive been coming to this area for business since 2004 and just found this place. I am ashamed.
Bar, bartender, food… all top notch. Kalua pork is probably the best pork i have ever eaten. Spicy poke was fantastic as well.

Randomly found this place as we were walking by. My boyfriend and I noticed the cute red lighting up this staircase. This place is located at the top of the steps, small place but it has indoor seating, a bar, and a front and back lanai for outdoor seating. We sat outside because it was humid that night and there was only seats at the back lanai. We got seated immediately and the workers there are tentative and friendly! Tables were dirty but had a cute mosaic design on them. We came during happy hour which is 6 to 8 pm. We got $ 3 kirin!!! Pretty good places if you want somewhere that’s not crowded, loud, but super chill and small :) cheap dranks!

Upstairs indoor or outdoor balcony seating. This is a great little spot to enjoy good food and drinks, especially during their happy hour 6−8pm. I like coming here because it’s not noisy and you can have a conversation without being interrupted. It’s a very relaxed and casual hangout, no need to dress up if that’s what your thinking.
I enjoyed their Kalua pork Nachos and Garlic curly fries. They were yummy and something about those chips for the nachos was addicting.
A separate time, more recent, I tried their Kalua pork and spinach salad. It came with mushrooms if I remember correctly and balsamic vinaigrette. It was alright, needed a lot LESS dressing. They should have the option of putting it on the side. Adding more topping and vegetables would really improve this dish since I think it would taste more flavorful. Either way this is something I could easily make at home.
Nonetheless, this is one of my favorite hangouts and I love the ambience. Good service! I’ll be back.

Oh mah gawd! I feel like an American thug giving your beloved dive a «just okay», but let’s get real here… I didn’t have a life changing experience; I didn’t taste anything extraordinary; and I certainly did not encounter any geniuses here!
Oh okay! Most outstanding reviews, from people I actually know, date from 1, 2, 5 years ago! So to be fair, maybe, just maybe at one time in your old fairytales this was once nirvana, but today it’s nothing more than average. On a recent after party some of my friends and I decided to come here… It was after happy hour, if I am correct, and it was hella humid and dark if I recall. We took a flight of stairs to get here, the décor was dive, and so were the smells. Fortunately, one of my friends actually knew the bartender, or two, so perhaps I got an extra drop. And although my first drink was glowing, I mean actually radiation glowing, it was good, but like pushing a Hamilton to taste it. I think we all shared some pupus, but it was a tad fuzzy… my recollection, not the pupus, yet I clearly recall ending the night drinking Australian drinks with some actual Australians! So I later found out one of my friends is a RL Australian, but hey I still croon a hella better Waltzing Matilda! G’day mates! Toss me some shrimp on d’ Barbee! Heart me some Koala!
Oh all good! So even though I found the drinks, albeit creative, didn’t matchup to the price point… I still would return here, but it won’t be after an after party, or allow unknowingly being credited with a snapchat video! Yet, I’d still come on down, or down undah, with some Aussies! Hey they sure know how to have fun… Or, perhaps that was the glowing drink I ingested…
DOABLE. 3.0-STARS!

As always the drinks and the food is awsome. The late night menu is also awsome. Great place to go after work.

Genius lounge is one of my go to places in Waikiki cuz it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Its on the 3^rd floor and unless you have an idea where it is, you will probably miss it. Its right on lewers street
I have been here on a bunch of occasions sober and drunk (lol) its a cute, little lounge with either outside or inside seating. You can sit on different Lanai’s on opposite sides of the lounge. I suggest going during happy hour! I think its 6−8pm. The beers and food are decently cheap and the atmosphere is nice.
The servers and bartenders are super nice and helpful. Its definitely a good place to hang out in Waikiki and not have to deal with some of the crazies in Waikiki. Great place to chill and actually hang out with people. Check it out! :)

This place is so cute!
The Black Mochiko Chicken is to die for! The service was great. They were very attentive and always ready to go give more details if we had a question.
All we got was appetizers cause we wanted to walk around more, but we will for sure be back to eat an actual meal next time!

As others have pointed out this place is definitely past its prime. The winding entrance kind of sts the scene. Then you get inside and am reminded of the Hideaway. And the blocked up grand entrance from the first floor and the signs describing what is not allowed make you wonder… why am I here?
Perhaps the funniest thing was the idea that Chris the bartender decided to «save the foam» It turns out that the Kirin line had a kink in it so rather than allow all of that foam to go to waste he grabbed a pitcher and decided to save it so the next orders would receive previously poured beer and a fresh head.
One thing I will say is that the shish-​kebab was excellent. The cook was able to make the outside of the large pieces of steak caramelized while keeping the inside blood rare and they served it with potato which is unusual for a Japanese restaurant, but extremely welcome.
Since I was there on payday I also got to meet their longest-​term employee – Jasmine it was fun to chat about the history of the place, it has gone through many owners and the unknown origins of the name. She was able to explain why the grand entrance was blocked – when the place was built the first-​floor shop and the bar had the same owner, like Tommy Bahama, but not anymore so naturally the clothing store is not keen on having bar patrons walk through the store to access the bar.
by and by, probably will not be back, Genius Lounge is one of those off-​the-​beaten path establishments that does not really provide a compelling reason to return. it is in the chasm of mediocrity, not great and not terrible.

Came here for some drinks. Sat at the bar. The service was okay. Drinks we’re pretty good. We’ll come back for the food next time. Maybe we’ll get a better service!

A lovely neighborhood store right in Waikīkī! I had a rendezvous with old friends and we ended up at the Genius Lounge. I can only describe the customer services as «ohana!» I will welcomed like family and just had a awesome time. Standard fare cocktails with little bowls of popcorn. It will be a regular stop for me next visit to my second home.

The Ahi salad was the best on my entire trip to Waikiki, a Japanese chef runs the kitchen. This place has a total locals lounge feel it is above a gift shop plays great music and has great food and drinks. Will be back.

By far one of the bed in Waikiki. If you want a nice and great waitress ask for Jasmine (Yasmin). Try the ahi poke, shrimps and their cocktails. Service? Great. Location? Cozy and cute and pretty. Foods? Superb. Do you need anything else? Try here! And just to let you know I’m not generous in my reviews!

Truly a hidden gem! Awesome staff, great menu, infused Pineapple– Strawberry-​Habanero (PSH) shot is superb. Bartender Dave Minch is an expert in whiskeys, sake, etc. best late happy hour in Waikiki. Kano is the GM and head cook. Check out the cool hangout area downstairs. Be sure to tell them Bill sent you!

2 years ago this placed served me a meal of a lifetime. Everything was so good we ordered a second helping even though we were full, everything was unique and delicious beyond compare. Every time I visit Honolulu, Genius Lounge is what I look forward to most. The exclusivity, the quaint atmosphere, and the amazing AMAZING food. Tonight I made my way up the rope lit stairway and the first thing I saw was a group eating NACHOS. NACHOS. Red flag #1. Let me cut to the chase. Their signature poke was half the size it was was in January, and their unique Karaage was lacking their signature flair, just some fried chicken on some lettuce leaves. Everything was lacking that special something that set Genius apart. This is really quite a shame, I always hate seeing a unique place transform into another tourist trap, you really had a good thing going, Genius.

It’s all about happy hour once again. Drinks are stiff and very affordable. Tons of food options, you’ll be sure to find something to help soak up that booze. Genius is open later than most bars on the island (2:00am) so it’s a wonderful spot to end your night. If you’re planning a bar crawl, this location deserves a spot in the rotation.

If you love intimate bars with amazing food you must stop here on your visit to Waikiki. Don’t be intimidated that it is full of young Hawaiian hipsters. The food is intelligently crafted nods to traditional Hawaiian food. Plus a good sized menu of options. There is something for everyone.

Fun place to grab a drink at night or happy hour. The bar tenders are super nice and helpful, and make great conversation. I come here everytime I come to the island, fun place, atmosphere and great people. If you are looking for a fun place in Waikiki that’s lowkey, look no further.

Just came here as a back up for my last night in Hawaii with a group of five friends and the waitress would not «honor» our ids. It’s ridiculous that she did not accept our ids for no known reason and even asked us for a second identification or credit card. Even when we presented with our id AND credit card, she told us she can’t honor us even though we have VALID ids. Went to plenty of other bars and lounges and did not experience this type of unpleasant service. I don’t know what is her reason behind this or if she just didn’t want to serve us, but it was completely rude and she was gave us all an attitude to ruin our last night in Hawaii.

I would give this place no star if I can. The waitress checked our group of 5 for identifications and wasn’t pleased with it, so she asked for extra proof. After we did so, she was still not pleased with all five of us. It’s our last night in Hawaii before we head back to Washington and we would like have a drink. But with an attitude telling us that she wasn’t honored by it, made us all confused of why our cards wasn’t good enough? Thanks for ruin our night lady.

Really disappointed with this place. Came in with a party of 5, wanting to get a drink or two to relax after a long tiring day, but after sitting down and getting carded, she asked my friends if they had any other form of identity to prove our age. Even when he presented his credit card for proof, she just proceeded to ask the rest of us for our credit cards as well. We did not know the reason why as well, but she just said she couldn’t honor us if we didn’t have any form of credit card with our ID even though it is a valid ID. Rude and hope everyone will never come to place this experiencing what we did with that female server. Totally ruined our whole night!

I haven’t been to many bars in Waikiki, but so far this one is my favorite. I like how it’s cozy, tucked away on a side street away from the main drag. It has a nice vibe and the service is good. I also really like that they specialize in sake and Japanese spirits, so there’s different choices from a typical bar.

We got seduced by the sign promoting their happy hour, and ended up staying all afternoon and well into the night, enjoying a great modern-​Japanese share-​plate kind of dinner. Loved the chilled loungy atmosphere, staff were equally as laid-​back, and it was a nice night to sit out on the two balconies and watch the world go by with a beer in hand. Big fan.

Really great food (spicy noodles and nachos).
Service was outstanding. (Well done «Sam»).
Great happy hour drinks.
Will keep on list for next trip!

This place was amazing. After a long nite of shopping for gifts, my friends and I just stumbled onto this place, we decided to stop for a beer and some pupus. Waited a little while for a table but it was worth it. The waiter suggested I try Echigo beer and it was love at first sip. Our pupus were to die for. We had sashimi, kabbocha /​bacon garlic sautéed and caprese. It’s a quaint small place, it’s situated right on lewers above a shop, entrance is on the right side go up the stairs. The place has a sort of a Cheers vibe– «everyone knows your name». It’s a bit pricey. If your in Waikiki and want to enjoy good food and good people try Genius Lounge.

First time here and totally loving it! Great food and great booze at reasonable prices. Awesome music while sitting on the lanai people watching.
Definite place for a date

This is my spot! I’ve been coming here almost every week (or more) for the past 2 years now and I don’t think I’ll ever stop :) Finding a good place to get a drink in Waikiki after work can be pretty hard, but only if you haven’t been here. This is my crown jewel and here’s why…
Service: ⁵⁄₅
Can I go higher? Yes the management has changed over the years but what place hasn’t! Dave, Jasmine, Chelsea, Sam, Kimber, James, James (yes there are two!), and Marcus are super chill, funny, and always take care of my friends and I. Super generous with the drinks, I think Dave just wants to get me as drunk as possible every time I go there haha. Definitely not complaining!
Atmosphere:
There are two lanais with outside seating, I usually like the one right by the entrance since the seats are bigger and comfier. The bar itself is pretty small but there are 3 more tables inside as well (one large table and 2 half booths). Best part about everything? It is so clean! Not about that dive bar life, unless I’m already wasted lol. Décor matches with that of the cute boutique its connected to. You won’t find a better laid back spot in Waikiki, I promise you.
Drinks/​Food:
Cheap! My go to drink is a jameo/​ginger, or a Jameson mule — both only $ 7! They have great wine too, according to my friends and Dave :) Happy hour here is amazing: $ 3 beers, $ 5 mixed drinks, $ 5 champagne?! Food is great for such a busy bar/​lounge. Trust me I’ve tried almost everything on the menu, including the dessert platter which no one ever orders LOL. It’s truly amazing. Definitely the mentaiko pasta, garlic mac and cheese pizza, chicken karage, chicken wings, prosciutto cheese bread, nachos, house popcorn (season with furikake… PRO TIP: Order some potato salad and eat it with the popcorn, you’ll thank me later), and sautéed pumpkin and bacon are a must to try!!!
Come here to chill or try one of their special shots (PSH, try it just do it). They close at 2AM so you have plenty of time to start your night of debauchery :)

I ran across this place while traveling for work and returned several times. Why this place is awesome? It’s chill, just outside the craziness of Waikiki, Friendly service, great food and HAPPY HOUR! $ 3 Kirin and other specials. You can’t go wrong here. I liked the spicy yakisoba. For appetizers you HAVE to get the garlic edamame. Will recommend this place to my friends traveling to Waikiki.

I’d call this a hitten gem to offset the high end part of waikiki. Ambience is relaxed, simple and stylish. Great short menu of italian japaness fusion.
Service was top notch.
Seems like a great place to start out before hitting the bar scene, for 1 – 4 people.
I personally was very happy to just kick back here by myself after a long day. And zone with the music.

This place is certainly a hidden treasure in Waikiki. Located off Lewers, it is at the top of Genius Clothing Store, which is also very nice.
It is comfortable and cozy, with a very nice ambience. You can sit indoors or on one of two lanai.
The cuisine is pretty good, go when John cooks, he is good at making everything perfect and is very friendly. It is a mixed cuisine menu, American infused with some Italian and Japanese.
The general manager, Mike, is also really nice and tries to make sure customers are happy, will go the extra mile!
A very nice cocktail menu and happy hour, and cheerful crowd. I will come again!

Genius Lounge is located on the third floor of this building located on Lewers near Kuhio. The first two floors are a clothing store. I believe Genius has good Japanese small plates, but we did not come for the food.
The service was really good. The bartender acknowledged us right away, poured stiff drinks and was just a nice guy: 4 Stars.
The ambiance is kinda cool. There are a couple of tables as you come up the stairs, a few tables inside, and a nice bar and tables on the back patio. The bar has a nice cold selection of sake, Dom Perrignon, and Waialua sodas w/​real cane sugar. The clientele are primarily JFOBs, and old skool r&b plays in the background: 4 Stars.
I want to return to Genius on my next trip back home to O’ahu. I look forward to try the food the next time. Who knows, maybe one of the JFOB chicks will ask for English lessons! — LMAO!!!