Romer House Waikīkī Unveils The Lei Stand, a Vibrant New Addition to Honolulu’s Cocktail Scene

Published on May 2, 2025

Romer House Waikīkī, the adults-only sanctuary nestled in the heart of Hawai‘i’s vibrant district, has completed its vision with the much-anticipated arrival of The Lei Stand, a beloved Honolulu cocktail bar, now making its home at this iconic venue. The opening of The Lei Stand coincides perfectly with the island’s cherished ‘May Day is Lei Day’ celebration on May 1, weaving together the timeless tradition of lei-making with an inviting modern space designed for locals and visitors alike.

Since its debut in June 2024, Romer House has captivated its guests with a unique fusion of local charm, mid-century boutique aesthetics, and an unmistakable island spirit. Romer House quickly became known as the go-to escape for those seeking an adults-only getaway where they could unwind and embrace Waikīkī’s lively culture. The arrival of The Lei Stand Waikīkī completes this vision, providing a space where locals and travelers can gather to drink, eat, and socialize in an atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the Aloha spirit.

A New Chapter for The Lei Stand

The Lei Stand, founded in 2022 by Hawaiian natives Emmy award-winning producer Ryan Kalei Tsuji and former Universal Music Group brand strategist Tara Kanani Shimooka, has earned a reputation for being more than just a bar—it’s a hub for community and culture. The move from its original Chinatown location to Romer House marks a new chapter for The Lei Stand, with a focus on celebrating the rich culture of Hawai‘i while offering a unique venue for creating memories. Guests can expect all the warmth, hospitality, and character that made the original location so popular, now reimagined for Waikīkī’s exclusive retreat.

Entering The Lei Stand is like stepping into an oasis where tropical foliage, neon lights, and a cozy island ambiance envelop guests. The bar’s design pays homage to Chinatown’s iconic lei shops, featuring an arched doorway that invites visitors into a vibrant world of glowing colors and lush greenery. The intimate, after-hours vibe sets the perfect tone for unwinding with a cocktail in hand, and the venue offers comfortable lounge seating for those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Signature Cocktails and Local Flair

The Lei Stand Waikīkī serves up a selection of craft cocktails, each with its own unique backstory. Among the standout drinks is Soup Soup, a coconut clarified mix of high-quality blanco tequila, pineapple, falernum, and absinthe, offering a light yet flavorful twist. Another signature drink, Clifton’s Curse, pays tribute to the owner’s father with a funky tiki cocktail using locally made rum, amaro, cognac, and sherry, balanced perfectly with house-made orgeat.

For guests looking for lighter fare to pair with their drinks, The Lei Stand also offers a selection of appetizers, or “pupus,” including a local favorite: edamame hummus with taro chips and crack dip—a delicious take on a Hawaiian classic.

Additionally, the bar proudly features leis created by local artisans, offering guests a unique keepsake to remember their visit. These leis can be purchased directly from the bar, adding an extra layer of local culture to the experience.

Dining and Community at 855-ALOHA

While The Lei Stand steals the spotlight as the new bar, Romer House’s indoor-outdoor restaurant, 855-ALOHA, is also creating waves in the culinary scene. This restaurant celebrates Hawai‘i’s rich cultural heritage by serving a mashup of Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and European influences, showcasing flavors that have defined the island’s food scene for generations. Iconic dishes such as braised pork belly, marinated butterfish, and grilled chicken teriyaki are reimagined with a contemporary twist, inviting guests to savor the flavors of the islands in a relaxed setting.

855-ALOHA is more than just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of Hawai‘i’s history and the iconic Kelepona, the island’s blue phone booths. The space features murals by local artist Solario, and lush greenery coupled with abstract Japanese watercolor elements evoke the beauty of nature, an integral part of both Hawaiian and Japanese cultures. This venue delivers not just food, but a connection to the island’s past, present, and future.

A Retreat Like No Other

The third and final space at Romer House is The Backyard, an intimate, tropical retreat that offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Waikīkī. This secret hideaway is nestled among native palms and tropical plantings, featuring a heated wading pool, daybed cabanas, and shaded loungers, making it the ideal place to relax and unwind.

A tropical bar in The Backyard offers a delightful menu of refreshing cocktails, crisp salads, and island-style poke bowls, alongside local brews and a unique, build-your-own spirit-free spritz bar. Guests can also enjoy art created by local artist Cory Kamehanaokalā, whose sweeping fishpond mural sets the tone for this serene sanctuary.

Exclusive Perks and Cultural Programming

Romer House offers much more than just a place to stay or dine—it’s a cultural hub that brings the spirit of the islands to life. With complimentary cultural programming, guests can enjoy activities such as floating sound baths and sunset hula classes, ensuring that the Aloha spirit is experienced from sunrise to sunset. Romer House also offers exclusive Key to the Neighborhood perks, providing guests with access to local hidden gems, creating a truly immersive experience.

Situated just a short walk from the famous Waikīkī Beach and the International Market Place, Romer House Waikīkī offers an escape from the typical tourist crowds while still keeping you in the heart of all that makes Waikīkī special. With its blend of old-school charm, modern luxury, and the unique island vibe, Romer House Waikīkī is the perfect place to relax, reconnect, and indulge in everything that Hawai‘i has to offer—without the kids.