Pewa

A simple hot spiced cocktail paired with ulu breadfruit orange muffin as recommended by the barista Noel, easygoing vibes in the morning Thursday. study session this is nice ! Great service

PEWA by Pono Potions in Honolulu’s Chinatown district during their soft opening and it already feels like one of the more intriguing new cocktail spaces in the neighborhood. Chinatown has seen a wave of creative bars and restaurants in recent years, and PEWA by Pono Potions fits naturally into that evolving scene. The space immediately stands out for its atmosphere. The interior has a polished yet relaxed feel, with warm lighting and a design that blends modern cocktail lounge aesthetics with local character. It feels like the kind of place where people will settle in for an evening rather than just a quick drink. The highlight here is the cocktail program. PEWA by Pono Potions uses their own locally produced Pono Potions syrups, which gives the drinks a distinct flavor profile that feels both crafted and uniquely Hawai‘i. The cocktails we tried were balanced, creative, and clearly designed with attention to detail. Even though we only stopped in for drinks, the food coming out of the kitchen looked impressive. Several dishes passing our table caught my attention, and it made me wish we had arrived hungry. Service during the soft opening was friendly and welcoming, and the staff seemed genuinely excited about the launch. If the early momentum continues, PEWA by Pono Potions is likely to become a popular Chinatown destination for craft cocktails and late-night dining.

We went in during their soft opening for a couple of cocktails and it did not disappoint! My only regret is not coming hungry to try their food, as everything coming out of the kitchen looked delicious. The restaurant has a beautiful ambience, friendly staff, and unique crafted cocktails using their own locally made Pono Potions syrups. I'm sure it will be a very popular new space in Chinatown!