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Eatery’s tasty deals will make you smile

A La Carte

February 4, 2019

Story By: Caroline Wright | Photos by: PHOTOS COURTESY IL LUPINO TRATTORIA & WINE BAR

Mai Tai ($8 happy hour)

Ahh, aperitivo! In Italy, it’s the American equivalent of “happy hour,” a time when adults sip a cocktail or a glass of wine or two while enjoying a few small plates.

Following this sweet Italian tradition, Il Lupino Trattoria & Wine Bar offers a satisfying menu of appetizers during its two daily happy hours. Yes, there are now two happy hours at Il Lupino — the earlier is from 2 to 6:30 p.m. and the later is from 9:30 to 10:30 p.m. What a terrific way to start (or finish) a night on the town.

Meatball ($12 happy hour)

Il Lupino’s menu of delights launches with a selection of classic cocktails, like Old-Fashioned and Negroni, and island favorites like Mai Tai and Daiquiri, which are all just $8 during happy hour. Wines by the glass ($6-$12) are available from a list that includes Moscato, Lambrusco, sparkling rose and beer selections ($4), including Sapporo and Peroni.

For $12, guests can enjoy Salumi & Formaggi, a trio of fine meats and cheeses carefully selected by the chef from a pantry that may contain items such as prosciutto di Parma, salame cotto, bresaola, salami barolo, boschetto, Gorgonzola dolce and cambozola.

Grilled Octopus ($15 happy hour)

A savory, tender, juicy treat, the enormous Meat-ball ($12) is lovingly made with prime veal, pork and beef, and is served with pomodoro and Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s popular with the happy hour crowd, and deservedly so.

Something colorful and alluring served during the hours of joy is Grilled Octopus ($15), a colorful plate with heirloom cherry tomato, Waipoli greens, basil pesto and roasted red pepper aioli.

Located in the Royal Hawaiian Center, Il Lupino Trattoria & Wine Bar provides a friendly, convivial setting with its two happy hours filled with mouthwatering spirits and appetizers.

Honolulu, HI 96815

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