Honolulu’s newest speakeasy is inside a pawn shop

In true speakeasy style, Honolulu’s newest hidden gem is tucked away within a pawn shop in Waikīkī.

RM 38 recently opened its second location within The Imperial Hotel Resort in Waikīkī. Walk through the hotel lobby, look for the pawn shop, and ring the bell to be transported to the speakeasy.

Similar to RM 38’s Kakaʻako location (on the second floor of Indochine), the décor of this Waikīkī spot is inspired by Southeast Asia, according to Noa Aoki, marketing director at Aoki Group Restaurants.

“Everything here is basically found from Southeast Asia from his (Kevin Aoki’s) traveling,” she says. “He collected all these things. Also, 1938 is when his dad was born.

“We still have RM 38 in Indochine (in Kakaʻako), but that one is more for private events,” she adds. “For the Waikīkī one, it’s going to be a regular speakeasy vibe.”

RM 38’s drink menu is so extensive that it’s more like a book. Choose from red or white wines by the glass, and cocktails with cheeky names like Crazy Rich Asian ($17), Dragon Lady ($17) and Wabi Sabi ($17). The 38 Old Fashioned ($20) — made with Aoki Collection Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, angostura bitter, turbinado sugar and smoked house candied bacon — is a customer favorite, especially because of its smoky presentation.

Guests can also choose from American bourbon, Ryes and Aoki whiskey flights. The speakeasy also offers cigars.

The food menu primarily consists of small bites. Start with the truffle popcorn ($7), which is absolutely addictive with a strong truffle flavor.

The blini topped with caviar, smoked salmon and crème fraiche ($12) was my favorite bite. The thin pancakes were fluffy and the caviar boosted the salmon’s umami flavor.

Other dishes include wafu pork sausage ($10), which features Kurobuta pork and comes with yellow mustard for dipping. Crispy squid balls ($12) have also been a popular choice. These tasted similar to takoyaki, with a slightly doughy interior.

Customers at RM 38 can take advantage of validated parking ($5) at the hotel.

CONTACT
RM 38
The Imperial Hawaiʻi Resort
205 Lewers St., Honolulu
Instagram: @rm38hawaii
Open 6 p.m.-midnight Mondays-Thursdays, 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays
Validated hotel parking available

Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.