Bar Leather Apron

Bar Leather Apron is a special place. A truly superlative bar experience with a knowledgeable staff. It is the crown jewel in the Hawaii bar scene, and one of the best bars in the country. Sadly, the reservation system they currently use just doesn't work. Looked every day for 2 months and showed every seat booked. Showed up and fortunately they save some seats for walk-ins. However the way it's currently presented i would not have even stopped in if I had not been very close by. I very much wish they would change this and be responsive to email / calls to sort out the walk in situation. I feel like as it currently exists the bar is losing a lot of business and many potential devoted customers are missing out.

We struggled to get into the bar because we didn’t realize we had to go inside the building and walk a bit. The security guard helped us get to the right place. I highly recommend making a reservation because then you can sit at the bar and talk to the knowledgeable bartenders. We were able to sit in the lounge which was beautiful with solid wood tables and leather couches. Everything was mind-blowingly delicious with complex flavors. Any of the cocktails are a good choice. I loved all the new flavor profiles I got to try!

Definitely 5 stars, especially if you enjoy the art & craft that is used to create a cocktail experience. We did wait, because we were not smart enough to make reservations, but it was everything we hoped for. If you’re a tequila fan, all of their specialty cocktails were distinctively unique. They were all visually stunning, but the explanation of how the cocktail was inspired added to the overall journey. Each one’s aroma was only overshadowed by the intense flavor of each sip, which paired with the charcuterie, completed our first night in delightful bliss.

Had a great time! Drinks were really good and the ambience was upscale and cozy :) I believe making a reservation is recommended but today was my lucky day :) Thank you for the great service, Daniel and Brett!! I will be back 😊❤️

You can make reservations online via the Resy app. On the 1st of the month at 0700, reservations are released for the next month. The reservations get filled up very, very quickly. Made reservations online pretty far in advance. Small bar with great ambiance. Lots of good whiskey options. Every drink we ordered was explained to us in detail. Definitely worth it!

One of the best bars I’ve ever been to! The cocktails were fantastic, and although we didn’t order any food, the complimentary snacks were excellent. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. Highly recommend!

This is our go-to spot for a special evening out--family in town, anniversaries, friends getting engaged, you name it! I've been privileged enough to have visited maybe once per year for the past few years and the drinks are always the best I've ever had. Each ingredient is chosen with care and consideration, and the bartenders share that with you so you rally get the most out of it, from taste and aroma, to story and beauty. If it were just the drinks I was rating, I'd still leave 5 stars, but what REALLY sets this place apart is the staff. They are the best in the business, every time. They are knowledgeable, passionate, and really want to make sure you have an excellent experience that compliments the quality of the drinks. I want to call out my last visit, where I was extremely lucky to get a reservation last minute, thanks to Justin who was able to make something work. I know they're very popular and reservations are hard to get (and for good reason!), so Justin being able to make this work somehow really shows how much they care about their guests.

This is one of my favorite bars to go to when I'm in Honolulu. It's super small and intimate which is nice, but also bad because it gets filled up quickly. You should definitely try to make reservations ahead of time. The selection of cocktails here are wonderful and carefully thought out. I don't think I've had a bad drink here. I really enjoyed the Imperial cocktail (a modified version of the old fashioned) and if you like the smoky and piety drinks, try the In The Soul. The Yuzo Sour and Sagano Smoke are also good cocktails. The bartenders are super friendly and knowledgeable about the cocktails. I highly recommend going to this place if you enjoy some quality cocktails and spirits.

This place has been on our list to visit once we arrived in Hawaii. We've been trying to get reservations here and being that this bar is one of the top 50 bars in the nation, it's pretty hard to get reservations. We couldn't get reservations online so we decided to take our chance and walk in. The bar is tucked inside the Topa Financial Center in downtown. Walking inside the center, I wouldn't even have thought a bar would've been in here. Pretty cool how it's tucked away. We got there a few minutes after they opened and the gentleman was able to let us sit at the bar. We were extremely lucky since there was a cancellation last minute. I can see why this place can get packed. It's very intimate and not a lot of seating. Justin took care of us and the drinks were amazing!!! His drinks and presentation is definitely a work of art. It was hard not to try the whole menu! Matcha old fashioned 10/10 Leather soul 10/10 Japan 10/10 Espresso martini 10/10 (has pandan in it) I'm not kidding when I say that all the drinks blew our mind. Each drink had its own unique twist and flavor. We loved all of it! Our top two had to be the leather soul definitely. The flavor was so rich and I never knew I would like a drink with tobacco in it. The second one we enjoyed is the matcha old fashioned. Never had an old fashioned with matcha before and I never would've thought it be good, but damn... that drink was so good. Every time we visit the family in Hawaii, this place is a MUST visit for us. We enjoyed the experience and the drinks. The service was top tier and I'm so glad we tried this bar finally! Thank you Justin!

I have been dying to visit Bar Leather Apron (BLA) for quite sometime now. Luckily, I was able to visit this amazing establishment and I had a memorable evening. Know before you go- reservations are highly recommended and can be difficult to get. They do accept a limited number of walk-ins. FYI: Bar leather apron is located towards the Fort Street Mall tower. Bar leather apron is a cozy and intimate bar offering limited bar seating as well as a small lounge area with several tables. For the best experience, I highly recommend sitting at the bar during your visit. It promises a truly delightful bar experience. I had such a great time savoring their specialty cocktails as a big fan of old-fashioned drinks and whiskey. It's hard to choose a favorite when I enjoyed the Matcha, Imperial, and Japan signature cocktail so much. The bartenders were a delight - they were so friendly and informative. I loved how they explained the ingredients and how everything came together to perfectly complement the whiskey. My visit to Bar Leather Apron was truly memorable and enjoyable. Wonderful cocktails and great service. I'm a fan! Can't wait to return soon for another memorable evening

This was one of my favorite bars that I've tried in Honolulu. Justin Park was such an awesome bartender/owner and paired each step of the mixing process with a masterful knowledge of each ingredient to help patrons better appreciate the different components of each cocktail as they are being crafted. Justin elevated the cocktail making experience with a flair for entertainment spectacle! The food was phenomenal and was just the right portions for an evening round of drinks!

Was lucky enough to snag a last minute reservation on a Friday evening. Bar leather apron is located on the lobby level (if you're taking the elevator) of a financial building. The space is very intimate. Justin was our bartender, and he thoroughly explained each drink as he made it. We had the mai tai, imperial old fashioned, sagano smoke, and leather soul. All of these drinks were tasty and balanced. It's really cool to meet someone who is so passionate about his craft. Would love to come again to try more of the menu!

This place is utterly amazing! We were lucky to get added to a reservation last minute and now I'm waiting to see when I can make my own reservation. Staff is awesome: friendly, knowledgeable, skilled cocktail artisans. The space is small and dark which makes for an intimate setting for amazing drinks. Certainly a memorable experience that few other bars could rival. It's amazing how reasonably priced the drinks are considering so many of the ingredients are made in house and the ice is hand sculpted. I'm not a whiskey girl so I really enjoyed the flowers for you, boomerang, and their take on the gin and tonic of. All fresh, fragrant, and so easy to drink. It's easy to see why their Mai tai was named world's best! It really was one of the best drinks I've ever had. Fun presentation that slayed the taste buds. We didn't eat much but the milk bread was really tasty and the chocolates they give at the end are really a nice finish to the evening. While they do take walk ins, consider calling ahead to see if they have the man power to serve. I'll be back!

Very interesting list of cocktails that you won't find anywhere else. A lot of Japanese ingredients. If you're into craft cocktails, this is the place to be if you're able to get a reservation or score a seat with walk-in. Drinks were overall good with quality alcohol and ingredients. I wish the appetizers were closer to perfection given the price they charged but still decent enough although we didn't finish everything so definitely they could be better. Amazing price with the entry level Kaluga hybrid caviar (1oz) upgrade for just $65. Worth the upgrade. However, the menu said it's imperial golden osetra (which generally is more expensive than kaluga hybrid) so that was a little misleading on the menu. I enjoyed the kaluga hybrid at least. I tried 3 drinks - Imperial, La Altena and Fruity and Floral. The Suntory whisky in Imperial was smooth! I could also taste the shiso in the drink, but the whole drink was a little too sweet for me. I think I'd prefer to just drink the whisky by itself lol. La Altena was definitely on the spicy side haha. Smooth tequila as well, but I didn't enjoy the drink as much as I was hoping to. I kind wish I ordered their Mai tai instead for my 2nd drink but I don't think I could handle a 3rd alcoholic drink lol so I went for their zero proof fruity and floral. The egg white and hojicha gave it a good umami flavor, and the frozen apple tasted like dipping dots! That was a very interesting drink and I gotta say it's ironically my favorite one out of the three... Highly recommend the smoked salmon dip! I wish the bread was a little fresher. The onion and scallion dip was good too, but again, the chips could be made better - they're too thick, over fried and over seasoned. None of us could finish it. The cheese and salami had some good options in there. I liked the figs, the cashews, salami and cheese. The pickled cucumber was a little too sweet for me. The Kaluga hybrid caviar had a good briny taste and buttery finish, but didn't have much of a pop, but it's excellent for the price point. Still wish it was the golden imperial osetra as stated on the menu. The service was excellent! Everyone was very nice and attentive. They care. It's amazing to see Jason do his magic in front of us. I don't see a point to come here unless you can sit at the bar for the full experience. That's part of your drink and the price you pay!

I've been wanting to try this place for over a long time now and FINALLY got a chance a chance to go!! Luckily it was early on a Wednesday night and we were able to walk in without reservations. But with only two guys working they limited the seating. Located in the a tiny intimate space with a bar and some tables I heard that the best seats are at the bar with front row seats so you can see the bartenders do their thing. We were seated on a table where we couldn't see but it's ok because we were engaged in conversation all night. Love that we all got different things and got to try each other's drinks. Everything was crafted with excellent care and beautifully and articulately presented with a short narrative about each drink. The starred ones were my faves. Round 1: ***E ho'o pau mai tai-12 year rum, spices: orgeat, fig lime, absinthe, keawe wood smoke. My friend said this was the world's best mai tai. I always wonder how anyone can make that claim unless they have literally travelled the world and tasted every maitai. They might not be wrong though, because this award winning drink was one of the best maitais I've ever had!!! Not too sweet, much more complex than your typical beach drink, and full of wonderful flavors! Masterfully made! **Kisetsu Sour/ lilikoi - changes seasonally - Nikka Coffey gin, mason pepper, yuzu, bergamot, lilikoi, lemon, tonic . This drink changes with the "seasons". Beautiful, refreshing and too easy to drink! Espresso martini- haku vodka, pandan, cynar, sesame, cold brew, whole egg. They smoke the espresso beans in front of you. My friend liked his drink more than I did. Round 2: Red Shiso smash- (not on the menu)-Toki, red shiso, lemon, yuzu, wasabon sugar, soda. Good but not my favorite. ***El Umami- tequila, mezcal, bergamot, strawberry, tomato, bergamot- lovely in looks and taste! A little sweet, a little smoky. Roma Norte- mezcal, chile verde, grapefruit, honey, black pepper, frozen apple. Super cool presentation. Good if you like smoky. ***Smoked salmon- bourbon smoked salmon, wasabi, dill oil, smoked trout roe. Soooo good! Great for sharing. Excellent servers knew we'd need more bread. Complimentary: Rice ball snacks Dessert: Ganache with yuzu- a perfect ending! Service by the guy in the leather apron and hat (sorry didn't catch his name ) was top notch. We were very well attended to. Love that they fill chilled water without having to be asked through the evening. I can see why people love this place and why it's James Beard worthy! Drinks nowadays are pricey everywhere. Theirs come with creativity, care, craftsmanship and class which give them more value than those at most other bars.

Our visit last night reminded me why Bar Leather Apron is the best cocktail experience in all of Hawaii. Justin and his team provide the most incredible service during each visit. The best seats are at the intimate wooden bar and every cocktail is truly a craftsmanship. They display all of the ingredients that go into your libation and watching them curate each drink is the best part. Their menu and liquor collection is so impressive and will blow any whiskey and bourbon aficionados minds! Getting a reservation here feels almost nearly impossible at times as they've gained so much popularity over the years with their awards and accolades. You can try your luck at making a reservation the first of every month. However, the lounge area welcomes walk ins and is well worth the wait.

I would definitely come back here for a nice evening cocktail. Note that you can either walk in or reserve seats on their website. However, the venue can only fit up to 16 seats. Yes, the venue is small yet a hidden gem. The reserved seating is right at the bar where the staff kindly pushes your seat in when you sit down. The ambiance is casual and not too loud with classic jazz music and covers but with jazz style. The venue is quite dim too but it's a nice touch to represent the drinks at the bar with the stage lighting. It's a nice little show where the mixologists present the ingredients and explain where these ingredients are originated from that will be mixed into your drink. I like how not only they present the ingredients but they also explain how they mix it (ex: fatwashing, dry washing, etc.). Lots of knowledge is explained for every drink and i feel like it's best that you see and hear it for yourself. The drinks overall, fantastic with a nice class-A buzz for the end of the night hehe.

The Mai Tai was so yummy, the service was great of course. It's a whole educational experience and you can tell the bartenders love their craft.

I have been wanting to try this place for a while but with the reservation system opening on the first of the month for the next month availability, it takes quick fingers to pick up good reservations at 7 am. Luckily my coworker got Saturday reservation for the 4 of us at the bar top at 5. My husband and I got dropped off a bit early. I guess the 5 pm reservation is the first and they don't open until 5. The entrance is in the fort street tower up a small set of stairs above the eatery Burgers on Bishop. We were seated at 5 and they only had the bar too open that night, which seats 8. Drinks were all perfectly crafted with each ingredient contributing it's own part to the overall flavor. I asked if something could be left out because I wasn't a fan but was told that it helps offset the sweetness which I understand. It's good to know the profile of the each drink is made with that much thought. I especially liked the drinks with Shiso or yuzu (like the red Shiso smash, imperial, yuzu sour). The food choices were a nice addition seeing as we had 3 drinks each with no dinner. My most favorite item was one of their free bar snacks: the wonton chips fried in coconut oil. The elevation of something so simple like the won ton chips you get at Costco was chefs kiss. It was sweet and salty and so local. The perfect bar snack! I would recommend this place if you are able to get in!! Plus the service is so special and unique. On the bar you get a special experience with the bartender/mixologist. There is truly a passion and art to the drinks served and a treat to be able to experience it.

Legitimately had better food than I have had at some Michelin Star restaurants. The dip is AMAZING. I would be here all the time if I lived in Hawaii. I started with the Boomerang and then had the In the Soul. The creamed luau was my fa Legitimately had better food than I have had at some Michelin Star restaurants. The dip is AMAZING. I would be here all the time if I lived in Hawaii. I started with the Boomerang and then had the In the Soul. The creamed luau was my fav!

Had an amazing time here! It is definitely one of the highlights of my Hawaii trip. The reservation is not that easily to get. We checked the link once in a while and were able to snap one. The place does not have a phone number, so the link is the only way to get a reservation. We ordered the matcha and yuzu sour. Matcha is definitely on a strong side with the spirit they used. Yuzu sour is light and airy. It was so enjoyable to drink but also could make you tipsy quickly . The also ordered the salmon dips. It came with freshly toasted bread. They also were kind enough to help us refill the bread. Who would say no to more carbs

Had this new place on my list for a while. I am a bourbon fan and the service was attentive but something wasn't hitting just right with the menu drinks, for me or my buddy for the evening. We enjoyed our snacks and the presentation was lovely. I wish there was a pairing or recommendation for best drinks/food together. Singularly, my manhattan was fire though. Obviously wish the view was a little better. I do feel like once you're inside it's a whole different atmosphere but we hated our view of the empty office building over the railing. I will definitely go back to try this place a little earlier in the evening to see if my taste buds were off.

This place is amazing. I went here with friends looking for a great cocktail on a Thursday night. I found it and more. I would like to say that the staff blew me away with their knowledge. I did not think that somewhere in Honolulu, there was a place like this. The location was a bit hard to find, especially the parking. The environment was very well made, and I loved the decor. I had a few cocktails and appetizers. Every drink was presented excellently and explained throughly. I even quizzed the owner and waiters, and they knew the answers. I will most definitely be back to this place with more friends. All my friends I took were completely impressed with this place and the service.

Have been here 4 times now and have always had a relaxing and enjoyable time. Professional and friendly service from Scotty, Jason and Justin. A true hidden gem in a downtown business plaza. Very comfortable chairs and well made cocktails. As a large person, 2 cocktail drinks over the course of 2 hours is sufficient for a feeling of a warm glow, not drunk and not quite buzzed, but as the Germans might say, glückliche or merriment and happiness. You can taste the alcohol, but not in a bad way. It is well balanced and mixed in. Only complaint is reservations are hard to come by, but that is just because they are so popular! Plan well ahead. I particularly enjoy the cocktails with Japanese gin or whiskey when mixed with Yuzu and other fruit. Very unique and not as commonly found at other establishments

What the heck -- 5 stars! Finally snagged a reservation at Bar Leather Apron in downtown Honolulu after months of anticipation, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. The moment you step into this spot, you might find it surprisingly quiet and unassuming given its location on the ground floor of an office building, but don't let that fool you. The real magic happens at the bar. Jason, our bartender, was a cocktail wizard. Not only was he super friendly, but his passion for mixology was infectious. He walked us through each cocktail, sharing the unique elements that make each mix a standout. Speaking of cocktails, we tried about six different kinds -- each delivered its own flair and complexity. Imagine sipping on vibrant concoctions that tell a story with every sip. And just when we thought it couldn't get any better, complimentary snacks and a small dessert appeared before us, courtesy of the house. It's these thoughtful touches that elevate the entire experience.

Congrats on your recent James Beard Award and Hale 'Aina Award for Best Bar. Very well-deserving. Hands down my absolute favorite bar on the whole island of Oahu. As someone who really enjoys the intricate and creative craft that comes with mixology and cocktails, I really appreciated the presentation and details of each drink. This place is bound to impress you! Very classy and intimate lounge. I've been keeping Bar Leather Apron as my dirty little secret since it's so difficult to get a reservation, but since they recently got more attention, I've decided to finally post my review. I've been here about 4-5 times if I'm lucky to snag a reservation. It's possible to get a walk-ins, but no promises. Just try your luck. I highly recommend getting bar seating (6 spots) if you can. It is where you get to watch the magic happen! We've had the pleasure of meeting all the bartenders by now: Justin (owner), Scotty, and Jason. They are all polite, professional, and down to earth. Gentlemen status. Dressed snazzy with their leather aprons too! Service is excellent. Most drinks range from $16-$28. Ive pretty much ordered all the drinks by now to find my favorites. I especially loved: *E Hoo Pau Mai Tai *Amaretto Sour *Yuzu Sour *Red Shisho Smash *Kisetsu Tonic They give complimentary small bar snacks and chocolate at the end. You can also order off their small Food menu. I will be back again and again!

Nestled in the heart of The Topa Financial Center, Bar Leather Apron is a Honolulu haven, channeling Tokyo's intimate bars through the expertise of Justin Park and his staff. This six-seater joint is whiskey nirvana, offering finely tuned cocktails that dance on your palate. The bartenders, true storytellers, unravel the whiskey world's mysteries, turning your visit into a liquid journey. But here's the twist - it's not just about the alcohol. At Bar Leather Apron, you can savor the artistry in their mocktails, proving that you don't need booze to relish finely crafted flavors. This downtown gem blends craftsmanship, character, and a slice of Tokyo for an exceptional experience, whether you're a whiskey aficionado or on the mocktail bandwagon. Cheers to an unforgettable time!

This is one of those go-to places for intimate cocktails with good friends, especially those visiting Hawaii (think of choosing Mai tai or Japanese themes). Service is always excellent from the knowledgeable but humble bartenders. Getting a reservation can be a challenge, I usually look for last minute openings which usually end up being 10pm or later on weeknights.

One of the best bars in the country. Excellent service, great attention to detail (glass wear, ice, setting,etc.), knowledgeable staff and excellent drinks.

How fortunate am I to be living so close to Bar Leather Apron where I can visit during non-peak hours and season. It takes majority of the people MONTHS and MONTHS in advance to get reservation, but I am fortunate to have been able to do walk-in 2 out of the 3 times I have tried to visit. My goal is to try ALL the drinks on their menu so that means I'll be visiting again, and again, and again, and again when they change their menu. That's how much I love it! I have never heard of the James Beard Award until I came across Bar Leather Apron. Whatever award it is, I can see why they won it. Each cocktail here is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, a symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas expertly blended into liquid perfection. The mixologists here aren't just bartenders; they're true artists, wielding spirits, bitters, and house-made infusions like painters with a palette. I have never experienced such combination of ingredients in flavors before. The ambiance at Bar Leather Apron is sophisticated yet inviting, with an intimate setting that encourages conversation and appreciation for the craft. The attention to detail in the presentation of each drink, coupled with the knowledgeable and attentive staff, creates an atmosphere of unparalleled hospitality and warmth. I haven't had the chance to sit at the bar to see their amazing products being worked and in action, but I'm hoping to sometime soon. Bartenders and staff are all amazing! Jason, Justin, and Lee (soon-to-be bartender!) AND I would be remiss if I didn't mention the food...! I had the charcutterie board and the salmon dip... Created by Chef Ki, who also owns the Bar Maze down the street!!! Bartender Justin and Chef Ki opened a restaurant with an innovative concept to pair their amazing cocktails with a dish. I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend checking out Bar Maze if you can get the reservation! And here is my running list of drinks in the order of my favorite to least favorite: 1. In the Soul 2. Sagano Smoke 3. Tavern Keeps Treasure 4. Imperial 5. Roma Norte 6. Flowers for You 7. Japan 8. Kietsu Tonic

Parking entrance in on Ala Moana. Park on the basement floor. Take elevator to Lobby. Stay in the Fort Tower. Bar entrance is on your left pass the security desk. We had an incredible time. The bartender excellent pained each drink as he made it for us. My fav was the espresso daiquiri was delicious. There were many IG pic opportunities especially when we ordered the smoked mai tai. The presentation was excellent. We tried to go back in a couple of days on a Saturday. Unfortunately, they were short staffed and couldn't accommodate us.

A1 craft cocktails!!!! Has the best mai tai on island! Everything on the charcuterie board pairs well together and the bartenders are amazing. The venue is super intimate... kinda reminds me of someone's decked out 'man cave' or a cigar lounge (smoking is not allowed here). I would not recommended for large crowds or anyone hoping for a sports bar type feel. If you're looking for a setting that seems sophisticated paired with amazing craft cocktails ...this is the place!

This spot is one of the absolute best cocktail bars I've ever been to and I can't believe it's taken me this long to go! Okay okay, fair enough that reservations are nearly impossible to snag, but once I finally buckled down, I was able to get us two seats. With such a close and intimate space, and absolute professionalism, this place could be in an alley and I'd go. Tucked away in a tiny corner of a financial building, at first you may not be able to find it, but once you do? Heaven! The quality of the cocktails is superb, and the attention to detail unsurpassed. Each drink on the menu looked unique and delicious, well balanced and tasty. The staff is top notch, high quality humans too, and I will tell everyone and anyone, if you drink, you've got to go!

I cannot even put into words how awesome this experience was. All I can say it, make your reservations now and make it as many times as you are allowed to go during your trip. I had probably the best espresso martini that I have ever tasted when we went here and I've been trying to chase that taste ever since nothing had come close and I'm so sad. The place is small but very intimate. The bartenders are knowledgeable and very friendly. I honestly can't wait to go back the next chance I get. Every drink is unique and I would def recommend trying them all, plus book a seat at the bar, you won't regret it!

This place is on the North America's 50 best bars and Hawaii's only James Beard Award Finalist this year! Accolades aside my husband and I had a phenomenal night there after snatching a last minute reservation there. Honestly I would never have heard of this place if not for my foodie friends and Eater... thank you thank thank you!! The location is in a business office building in downtown Honolulu. At first you're going to think you might have gotten lost but do not fear...it is tucked away on a mezzanine level leaving only a small sign on the outside. The bar is intimate and intimate with harmonious decor. The cocktail list is sizable but all impressive sounding, making it very difficult to choose. We especially love our bartender Jason; his warm presence makes it easy to strike up conversations and to ask questions. Each of the cocktail presentation is so on point. All the ingredients get lined up in the bar, and you get to see the thought behind every creation. The attention to detail is impeccable. Every drink is so well executed and well balanced as well. At the end of the night as you check out they surprise you with a small bowl of "rocks" with chocolates. Beautiful way to finish the night. I absolutely recommend get a reservation online. It feels daunting but keep checking regularly since last minute availabilities do pop up. Even if you are not able to snatch one, they will try to accommodate you in the lounge area regardless.

My matcha old fashioned cocktail was perfection. Excellent service. The cold chocolate treat at the end was a sweet burst of flavor in my mouth. My only issue is that the bar is located in an office building. The atmosphere and vibe was not very interesting and I had to wait almost an hour to get in bc there are so few seats.

Extremely limited availability and other then booking on line.. No phone to call to ask questions to someone live.the ambiance is nice, can't say anything about the food or beverage because they wouldn't even let us have a drink at the bar

Reservation is must!!! There is only 6 seats at the bar. 2 hours limits so don't be late. We were lucky to be served by Scotty. First time and we had the best time. Great conversation and delicious drinks by Scotty. I walk in not having clue what I want. Scotty was so helpful and pleasant. Reasonable prices on these fancy drinks.

This establishment is located in a business tower so parking is straightforward, parking validated. Located on the 2nd floor right past security, it's an intimate bar experience. Highly recommend bar seating as you get the full experience of the cocktail being made right in front of you with ingredient explanation. Went with my wife and the cocktails are top-notch. Service is excellent, I have a pretty low threshold for service in general so if someone is filling my water glass without me asking, I'm happy, but it was above and beyond that. Justin was an excellent host and highly personable, would highly recommend!

Bar Leather Apron was everything I expected and some. I found out about this place from a fellow Yelper and knew after hearing his experience that this would be a place I needed to visit while in Hawaii. This place is tucked away in an office building and it's very easy to miss. If you're looking for something flashy and luring, you've found the wrong place. Located in the Topa Financial Center, this is as speakeasy as it gets! It's a smaller, dimly lit and somewhat intimate to the patron. I went in a group of 4, we were placed in a small room with a sliding door giving us a little privacy (not that we needed it, but enjoyed it). The staff, leather aprons included are comprised of some enthusiastic, professional mixologists that understand the menu and all had a sense a humor that contributed to their he experience. We didn't have 1 person helping us, rather 3 dudes through our night and they were all awesome and it was easy to tell that they communicated with each other as they kept this running joke about egg whites and protein (let your imagination wander here). Aside from the amazing cocktails, the service and atmosphere was an absolute home run. There's a good selection of various drinks, don't know what you want? Ask the bartender and let their knowledge make you more indecisive! I tend to swing more towards the whisky selections so my list was narrowed down and ultimately decided after I got a great description of the drink(s). Following our drinks, we were served a bowl of rocks! A couple of pieces may have been some fine chocolate disguised as rocks, I can't remember exactly the chocolate, it was good though, credit to the drinks! If you're remotely interested in checking them out, make your reservation ASAP! It will be worth your time!

Pretentious establishment in a weird office setting. Pretends there is a line when it's actually empty. Drinks are okay but overpriced.

TL;DR: Drinks are mediocre and expensive. I'd skip it. I have been to quite a few bars on the World's 50 Best list, and I was excited to check out Bar Leather Apron. However, I am rather disappointed by my experience here. A lot of people have complained about it being nearly impossible to make a reservation here. It was fully booked for the days we were in Honolulu, so we decided to try our luck with walk-ins. Their last seating is at 10:30pm. We came as a party of 2 and they told us they weren't sure whether they'd be able to seat us that night, which was fine and we decided to wait anyways. It took about an hour for us to be seated. There was another girl who came by herself and got seated right away. So, you might have a good shot if you are coming alone. We ordered a total of 4 drinks. These drinks, while conceptually interesting, did not deliver on execution. I was drawn to the novel and unique elements that made their drinks theirs, but I could not taste the matcha in "matcha", or the sesame in the espresso martini, or the strawberry and tomato in the el umami. They all just tasted like drinks I could have gotten elsewhere (for cheaper), and it felt as if they wanted to attempt novelty but were scared that they'd turn people away. I think they indexed too much on the drinks being pretty/instagrammable rather than being tasty. I can name far better bars with more interesting drinks and lower price points, easily, off the top of my head. Lastly, I echo someone else's review that they weren't as busy as they seemed to be. It looked like they were holding back tables. If you still want to try your luck with walk-ins, the bartender recommended coming between 7-9pm because they are busiest before and after dinner.

This place was well worth the money and wait. I'm really glad my local friend was able to secure a booking for our party at the bar counter. If you're into cocktails, this place is definitely for you. Scotty, our bartender was entertaining, knowledgeable, and humorous. You can tell that there was a genuine passion for his craft. His showmanship was also one of a kind. Watching him make the cocktail in front of you with the presentation of all the different ingredients that were prepped was a theatrical experience. The level of service that they provide also makes one feel very welcomed (pushing in of the chairs at the bar, walking one to the bathroom downstairs). I would not hesitate to come again the next time I'm in town. Make sure to book for the bar or you won't be able to see them make the drinks. BEWARE: Some of the drinks are pretty heavy so drink responsibly. =]

Congrats on JBF award. Came by for a drink but the listed hours are incorrect . The bar is inside the TOPA Financial center building on the Mezzanine level. Take stairs up from the lobby. Can be a bit tricky to find.

Fantastic drinks. Best Mai Tai we had on our trip, no question. They have a pretty sizable spirits list, but we were interested in the cocktails. Each one sounded really interesting so it was tough to choose. We ended up really liking everything we got, but Leather Soul and the Mai Tai were the stand outs for me. Highly recommend those two. Wish we were able to secure bar seats to experience the elaborate 'show' that come with bar seat cocktails, but I couldn't secure those coveted reservations for the day we were in this area. We just walked in and hoped for the best! Luckily they had seats in the lounge area, but hopefully next time! Honestly we wanted to try every drink, if we didn't have to drive back to our hotel we would've had a few more! We felt really at ease, relaxed, and just had a great time overall. Shout out to our super friendly bartender/server, thanks Scotty!

Superb drinks, excellent service, and relaxed ambiance. My first time here since reservations are almost impossible to snag! First of all, park in the structure, the TOPA Financial Center Public Garage, enter off of Nimitz and proceed to the basement. You can get it validated at the bar and it will cost $2. You will end up on the opposite side: Bishop Street when you exit. I was confused when leaving the building. Anyway, back to the drinks. We sat at the bar and I ordered the Red Shiso Smash: Toki, Red Shiso, Lemon, Yuzu, Wasanbon Sugar, Soda. I love shiso and Yuzu, so this drink was perfect for me! I also ordered the Kisetsu tonic. I realized that online doesn't have all the drinks available and in the bar, the menu is more extensive! I remember the Kisetsu tonic had lilikoi and yuzu which tasted amazing. Best take on gin and tonic. The mai tai was also very flavorful and the presentation was amazing! The smoke came out of the tiki box. Very beautiful presentation. Only got 2 drinks since we came at 10 and I didn't want to rush another drink since last call was 11:30. I definitely want to be back since there's more drinks I want to try! I really enjoyed sitting at the bar since the bartender would show and explain what goes in each drink. We also got some bar snacks and chocolates to end the night. Loved everything about this experience and I'm so glad to have been able to snag a seat. I definitely will be back!

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when walking in here. This isn't your typical bar where you order some rounds for you and your group but this was an experience in its own. The attention to detail when the drinks are being made was just amazing to see. Justin and the staff definitely know what they are doing. I would have to say this is the best bar that I have been to. Talking to Justin he has a lot of experience in the bar industry and made you feel like you were right at home. The fact that he waited for me to sit at the bar so he can push my seat in shows you the love and detail they put in to this place.

Bar Leather Apron is THE spot for high quality drinks not just in town, but for the entire island of Oahu. While it is possible to nab some walk in seating, you're better served making a reservation well in advance. Generally speaking, it seems they release reservation dates on the first of each month for the following month, and it gets competitive so book early. IF you can get bar seating, you'll be in for a treat as you'll not only get to chat with the amazing and professional bartenders, but you'll be in for a show as they carefully craft the most amazing cocktails. Also bear in mind that bar seating is limited to even numbers only, no odd numbered parties of patrons at the bar. I've been to this wonderful bar about four or five times in the past few years, and the drinks, ambiance, service and general consistency is remarkable. I highly recommend the "Royal Kunia" (especially if they have the included Maui Specialty Chocolates sea salt chocolate in stock), as well as the "In the Soul" (the BLA take on a penicillin). That said, I should offer the disclaimer that everyone's tastes when it comes to cocktails is vastly different and what I find desirable in a drink may not be for everyone. Their matcha old fashioned was also unique and worth a try. As far as the edible fare, the BLA menu is not the most vast, but it satisfies if you aren't there for a meal. Everything served is high quality, and they rotate new items in frequently enough to keep you interested. The service is always stellar with consistent professionalism and a dedication to presentation and quality of product. I feel like nothing that leaves the bar is considered "good enough", everything that comes out is "as good as it can be." It's also always a pleasure to see and chat with Scotty to learn something new from him about the drinks or food. I can't say enough good things about BLA, although I do wish they reinstated their "BLA at home" options or even their guri guri collaboration with Asato Family Shop. In any case, we will be back again for the next special occasion. Highs: The best cocktails on the island (with the awards to prove it), courteous and professional staff, consistency, cool ambiance, everything you want in a high end bar. Lows: If I HAD to choose one, I wish their food menu had a bit more substantial fare, but if you understand that this is a BAR with some snacks thrown in, you'll be more than satisfied with the experience.

This speak easy is pretty cool. We got lucky and just walked in one Friday evening. We got seated immediately at a table. The best experience would be at the bar where you get to interact with the bartender and watch him make your drinks. I ordered their Matcha high ball which if you like Bourban than this is the drink for you. I ordered it mainly for the pics. You could taste the Matcha as well as the Bourban. Presentation is nice here. I want to come back and order some other fancy drinks and sit at the bar.

I was looking for a place with unique drinks and stumbled upon Bar Leather Apron during my research. I was uncertain about making the reservation since my SO cannot drink much alcohol, and the bar has a minimum two drink per person requirement, but regretted not just moving forward with the reservation when all the slots quickly filled up online. After checking servers days in a row, there was a cancellation and immediately took the slot. Due to COVID, I was informed they are only seating six at the bar for each time slot, severely limiting availability. I saw a couple waiting outside of the bar (located in Topa Financial), hoping we wouldn't show up to our reservation...that wasn't going to happen. (You do have to pay a fee if you don't cancel 48 hours before your reservation.) I recommend allowing for time to find the bar, it was a bit confusing trying to figure out the location, especially since the reservation was at 10:30PM and the building was locked at one of the entrances. The experience itself was really great. The bartender placed all ingredients in front of us, and explained what each of the ingredients were and what he was doing. He was welcoming, kind, and helpful/accommodating. The drinks were all beautifully presented and different than anything I've had before. I very much enjoyed my evening at Bar Leather Apron.

The best cocktail experience ever... We were able to score a Bar reservation at Bar Leather Apron by logging into RESY exactly the first of the month prior to the reservation that we needed. We were told that reservations go quickly and hotel Concierges snatch up reservations which it makes it difficult of not impossible to walk in at any time. Seating is limited, and the bar is recommended. There are only 6 seats at the bar, so it is intimate, but the show is well worth it. Scotty was our server for this night and he was on point. He laid out all of the ingredients each time he made a drink and was careful to explain how and why that ingredient was in the drink. He also added a little showmanship to the drink and was very deliberate with his actions but not in any way pretentious. There is a two drink minimum, and the drinks are strong , so be sure to have eaten some food before or get some of their offerings to snack on. We had the Imperial, their 2015 award winning World's Best Mai Tai, the Yuzu Sour, In the Soul, and a Red Shiso between the two of us. Awesome drinks, awesome experience.

We were visiting Oahu and our friend told us this was the best Mai tai they've ever have. The location can be tricky to find as located in an unassuming financial tower, it felt like a speakeasy because it was difficult to find. We showed up around 5:30 with no reservations and were seated pretty quickly in a private room that fit six. We ordered the award winning mai tai and a yuzu sour. The presentation was very nice and the drinks were fantastic. The bar provided complimentary rice crackers and chocolate truffle that was presented on a rock. I would love to come again and try the matcha old fashioned and espresso martini. They also had an extensive Japanese whiskey list.

BLA is one of thee best bars in Honolulu!!! They almost got 5 stars from me. Service is impeccable. The host, servers, and bartenders make you feel such at ease. You are comfortable from the minute you walk in. Some call this bar a "speakeasy" but I don't consider it. It is located in a business building but the bar is not hidden. It's located on the first floor main lobby and you'll need to go up a flight of stairs. The bar is packed with many high end reserve whiskey, bourbon, and other alcohols. The actual bar is some kind of monkey pod wood that is shinned and definitely stands out when first look in. The drinks!!!! Where do I even start. The menu is divided by the types of drinks. I gravitated to the old fashions. They make so many different types. The menu starts off spirit forward. I of course ordered "In the soul". It's a type of old fashion. Not too sweet but just the right amount of spirit. It's smoked and topped with absinthe. My boyfriend ordered the "Leather Soul" which is smoked tobacco that coats your cup. It's a very strong drink. You can taste the quality of the alcohol and ingredients. I'm such an ice snob. I was taught that you can tell by the quality of the bar by their ice. BLA puts so much work in their ice. It's so clear and free of any bubbles. The food was also perfect. We ordered a charcuterie board, some type of bread, and dips. See pictures. The love that is put into each drink is amazing. I would love to go here every week but they're always booked. I recommend making a reservation ahead of time. The only reason BLA didn't get 5 starts from me was the temperature. My party of 4 was placed in a private room but the ventilation and air condition was very limited. The room quickly got hot while working on our first drink.

It only took us 20 minutes to figure out where the entrance is. This speakeasy is hidden inside a corporate building. While all the entrances are locked in the evening, the one in the back door isn't. Voila. You're in. We arrived without a reservation and luckily, we were seated. The service is superb. We received complementary treats with our unique beverages. The drinks were strong and simple, they didn't have to add a bunch of random ingredients to stand out. Atmosphere: causal romantic. Would be nice for date night. Expect to spend about $20 a drink.

Probably one of the best bars I've ever been to. Definitely the best bar in the US that I've ever been to. Each drink is handcrafted and absolutely delicious. The owners/bartenders take the time to craft the drinks in front of you and explain why they chose each element of the drink. Great ambiance too. It was such an intimate location. 10/10 would recommend and definitely will be back!

This review is for drinks only. We had some specialty cocktails at the 'Io society dinner and they were so delicious! Perfectly balanced with a few special twists to a reliable classics as well as new creative concoctions. We will definitely be making a stop by on our next date night!

I love this place and always love taking friend here. You can talk and hear people without yelling, the food is good, the drink are on point, and it always feels super intimate here. The staff is fantastic as well.