Honolulu, HI

Last Sunday my wife and I went to Kelly O’Neil’s pub on Lewers Street (across the street from Moose McGillicuddy’s) in Waikiki to watch a local Irish band. Kelly O’Neil’s features live Irish music every Sunday, from about 4pm to 7pm (no cover charge). We arrived shortly after 4:00 and took seats at a small table off to the side, facing the band.

It was a five piece ensemble featuring traditional Irish instruments such as flutes, slide whistles, bagpipes, dulcimers, and the bodhrán drum. In addition, the drummer also performed vocal duties on some songs, although most pieces were instrumental. My wife thought it was great that one of the flute players was an eighty-four year old woman! The group had an informal style and played sitting down around a long table, a few Irish beverages in front of them to wet their whistles.

In addition to the band, the atmosphere inside Kelly O’Neil’s was quite relaxed. Numerous televisions played sports, and a few patrons played a game of darts in the back. A few people occupied seats at the large bar in the middle of the room, clapping along at times to the musical choruses.

While we enjoyed the music, we ordered some fish and chips and a Reuben sandwich, both of which were quite good. These were washed down with a couple of rounds of beer, of course. I found it interesting that this pub also features a cigar menu with a decent selection from their own humidor.

So, the next time you’re in Waikiki on a Sunday and looking for some good food, drinks and entertainment, do consider checking out the Irish music at Kelly O’Neil’s!