About
Where Hilo Comes to Unwind
If you are navigating the familiar streets of Hilo and find yourself craving a spot that feels like a true neighborhood cornerstone, Joann's Lounge Bar is the destination. This isn't a place for white-tablecloth pretense; it is a straightforward, no-nonsense local haunt where the ice clinks loudly against glass and the conversations are as authentic as the island life itself.
The Pulse of the Lounge
Stepping inside, you are met with the dim, comforting glow of a space that has seen decades of Hilo history. The air carries the faint, salty tang of the nearby bay mixed with the scent of cold beer and local pupus. It is the kind of bar where the jukebox dictates the mood and the regulars have claimed their spots long before you arrived. It is ideal for those looking to escape the tourist track and rub shoulders with the folks who actually call this side of the Big Island home.
What to Expect at the Bar
The drinks are poured with a heavy hand, and the menu focuses on the essentials—refreshing, ice-cold options that hit the spot after a humid day exploring the windward coast. While the parking situation in the immediate vicinity can be a bit of a puzzle during peak weekend hours, the trade-off is a genuine, unvarnished slice of Hawaii culture. Whether you are grabbing a quick pau hana drink or settling in for a long night of storytelling, this lounge offers a grounded, sensory-rich experience that defines the social fabric of the Hilo community.
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Location
88 Kanoelehua Ave Waiakea Kai Shopping Plaza, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-4615
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 3 community reviewsAnthonyGoogle Maps
Recently
Best bar in Hawaii. Do not miss this place!
Sue PeckGoogle Maps
Recently
Have no idea why people recommended this dump. From the start the waitress was so rude and curt..yes we are not locals but really!!?? The pupus were lukewarm and really hope we don't get food poisoning. Gave one star as there is no option for lower rating.
Kyle McCallGoogle Maps
Recently
Great service and free pupus. Great place to go for locals and tourists. Highly recommend you stop by for some affordable and local atmosphere.
MattGoogle Maps
Recently
While my car was getting serviced, I stopped by Joann's Lounge Bar in Hilo for a beer, and was greeted with free plates of 9 different pupus, and they were all outstanding. Highest possible recommendation with very friendly service!
Tupahu AlohaGoogle Maps
Recently
My friends come to this bar to sing Karaoke. Upon entering the friendly staff greets you and then brings an amazing spread of pupus! In my opinion theu could update their song selection system, however thatʻs probably what makes this experience nostalgic!
Karlee PowersGoogle Maps
Recently
I think we were hazed here. We are not locals, but love to try local spots. The drinks were off and very expensive. When I asked about the Pupu’s we read about online, they served them to us cold…. Beef cubes and chicken nuggets in cheese all ice cold. Apologies if that is the norm, but the server felt very unfriendly. Sorry I walked outside to finish my water rather than throwing it away. It truly was water. I will continue to prank call you for days to come.
Jeff GGoogle Maps
Recently
Don’t miss this great place for drinks karaoke and hostess Briana Ramey is awesome!
Jennifer MeekGoogle Maps
Recently
Wanted to go to a great pupu bar during our recent trip to Big Island - well this was it! Great and plentiful pups and super friendly service!
Chris HolschuhGoogle Maps
Recently
The Best Karaoke / Sports Bar , I've ever been too or heard of , in all my travels , the Complementary Appetizers aka " Pupus " , are out of this World !!!!!!!:):):) , Sincerely Pomaikalani , Aloha Chris Holschuh
david gardnerGoogle Maps
Recently
A cute bar hosted by delightful staff. The free pupu platter was one of the best meals we've had on the island anyone fortunate enough to stop here should be grateful.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Joann's Lounge Bar
Common questions from diners about Joann's Lounge Bar in Hilo.
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