Take It Up a Notch

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: PORK CHOP ($32)

Do you feel like having a fancy night out without having to get too dolled up, but still having the fun of getting a little dressed up? Look no further than Nico’s Upstairs, which takes things up a few notches from its contemporary counterpart downstairs.

Nico’s Upstairs offers guests a casual-elegant fine-dining experience in the comforts of a spacious dining room that overlooks Pier 38’s boat harbor — throw in a mesmerizing sunset or a shining moon and the mood is more than just right.

Guests can enjoy the elevated experience, which offers generous and tasty portions such as seafood and steak at reasonable prices. A full bar in the middle of the dining room provides easy access to order drinks and mingle, while a stage area at the front of the room is home to the eatery’s live, local entertainment.

GOOD VIBES
Chris Rego plays a variety of music from the ’70’s.

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Speaking of entertainment, Nico’s Upstairs’ music program really tops off the experience as smooth sounds of local entertainers resound throughout the restaurant.

“We are, in a way, blending somewhere between the downstairs contemporary vibe and Kailua Hawaiian vibe,” says entertainment manager Ken Lykes, “so we have the Makaha Sons play sometimes and other Hawaiian acts like Kamakakehau Fernandez.”

Catch all the live action six days a week, Monday-Saturday, 6-8 p.m. and twice on Sundays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (during brunch) and 6-8 p.m. In addition to Hawaiian performances, there are jazz musicians on some nights and on July 28 guests can relax to gospel songs. It will be Nico’s Upstairs’ first-ever gospel brunch with singer Sherry Graham.