Kani Ka Pila Grille

Kani Ka Pila Grille is an open-air grille at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, 2169 Kalia Road in Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii. The name means roughly the sound of music in Hawaiian, and the venue is known for presenting free nightly Hawaiian music by local artists. The crowd is a broad mix of resort guests, visitors from nearby hotels and Honolulu residents who follow particular musicians, with a family-friendly atmosphere in the early evening. The mood is relaxed and communal, with open-air tables, island breezes and an audience that often sings or sways along. The dress code is resort casual, with aloha shirts and sundresses common. Music is the highlight: live Hawaiian music, including slack-key guitar, ukulele and island contemporary songs, is presented most evenings, typically from about 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and some artists are well-known in the local scene. The drinks programme includes tropical cocktails, mai tais, local beers and wine, and the kitchen serves Hawaiian-influenced grill dishes and pupu. Cocktails commonly cost about US$13 to US$17. There is no cover charge for the music. Reservations are advisable for dinner, particularly for tables close to the stage and on weekends, though walk-ins are accepted when space is available. The venue suits an early evening rather than a late-night session, since performances wrap up around 9:00 PM. Weeknights are less crowded than Friday and Saturday. The grille is a short walk from the Halekulani and other Kalia Road hotels. Visitors should check the current artist calendar and hours on the Kani Ka Pila website before going.