Choice eats win at happy hour

Pork Bao Trio ($13 regular, $12 happy hour)

Since opening its doors more than three decades ago in Kailua, Cinnamon’s still serves as a go-to dining destination featuring a country-style vibe and top-notch hospitality. Kamaaina and visitors alike have discovered Cinnamon’s at the Ilikai as a much-loved fixture under the guidance of owner Pua Nam situated near the gateway to Waikiki.

An array of ono pupu selections are available at The Splintered Paddle bar from 3 p.m. to closing. During happy hour, served daily from 3 to 6 p.m., all pupus (excluding the signature pancakes) and cocktails are discounted by $1 — a perfect recipe for pau hana bliss and a relaxing weekend foray.

Will’s Fish Tacos ($11 regular, $10 happy hour)

Rib-Eye Poke ($15, $14 during Happy Hour) definitely brings the sizzle as a 6-ounce portion of rib-eye steak is cubed, grilled and tossed with sauteed mushrooms, garlic, onions and poke sauce. This must-try dish is topped with crispy fried onions and served on a sizzling platter to capture the rich flavors and aromas that waft throughout the restaurant.

Pork Bao Trio ($13, $12 during happy hour) is a collection of House-roasted Hawaiian Kalua Pig, Chinese Char-Siu Pork and Salt & Pepper-seasoned Crispy Pork Belly each served on a steamed Chinese Bao bun and garnished to supplement the iconic tastes.

Carsie’s Crab Cakes ($13, $12 during happy hour) are packed full of flavor as the signature crab cakes are served atop spinach and topped with three sauces: Basil Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Spicy Dill Remoulade.

Carsie’s Crab Cakes ($13 regular, $12 happy hour)

Will’s Fish Tacos ($11, $10 during happy hour) are served as two hearty beer-battered Mahi tacos with a spicy slaw in corn tortillas. Seafood lovers will also clamor for Fresh Island Ahi Poke ($16, $15 during happy hour) as fresh ahi is cubed and tossed with sesame seeds, onions, green onions, garlic and poke sauce made to order.

Be sure to order a signature cocktail to pair with one’s favorite appetizers, including Guava Mai Tai ($10, $9 during Happy Hour) with pineapple light rum, orgeat syrup, guava juice and dark rum float. Puna Blue ($10, $9 during happy hour) features a blend of vodka, Blue Curacao, grapefruit juice and lychee juice, while the popular Bijou Mimosa ($8, $7 during Happy Hour) is built with Elderflower Liqueur and Champagne.

Live traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music is featured regularly at Cinnamon’s at the Ilikai, and don’t forget to catch the Friday night fireworks show weekly as the restaurant and bar offer a picture-postcard view of the rockets in flight.