Visiting the Hawaiian islands and their newly popular speakeasies during Covid was no easy feat, but certainly worth the struggle! Having been traveling for 15 hrs, we touched down in Oahu and rushed to our first stop to make our coveted reservation at Hawaii’s brand new Blind Ox Speakeasy.
When arriving at Blind Ox, you will see a wooden nondescript wall with the logo faintly printed on the window. Pick up the illuminated pay phone under the little blind ox and ask for entry. Once you find the real way to enter the bar you will get to walk through the outdoor patio section full of greenery and bright florals, and if you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation inside, you’ll be greeted by the life-size blind ox statue.
The atmosphere inside the hidden bar is glamorous and not too dark. Textures line the walls and tables changing everywhere you look all while achieving a vintage Gatsby vibe that was quite alluring. We loved the way the bar is shaped, fitting into the corner of the building, adding a unique quirk mixed in with the different textiles.
This speakeasy was a treat, as drinks were not the only highlight, but the eclectic tapas menu was as equally divine. Truly a rich (and expensive) array of dishes. We ordered the 24k Gold Popcorn Chicken and the Bone Marrow. Both were spectacular and unlike any bar food we’ve ever encountered! Make sure to prepare to spend a pretty penny at this speakeasy and order off both the cocktail and tapas menus.
Of course the main reason we visited was to try the libations. Blind Ox is primarily a whisky bar with a full page of whiskys listed from around the world. Therefore, both drinks we tried were whisky forward honoring the focus of the establishment. The featured drink, called The Madrid, did not disappoint. Self described as elegant and mysterious with a hint of spice; this vanilla sazerac based cocktail did pack a punch and delighted all of our taste buds from the spicy start to the sweet aftertaste of the tamarind rim. Our second cocktail we ordered with the Bone Marrow and was meat on meat! The Bull & Whip uses an extraordinarily strange whisky infused with Waygu and the glass was garnished with a thick slice of maple bacon. The Bull & Whip reminded us of a Manhattan with a smoky meaty twist.
Having just opened early 2021, Blind Ox is off to a great start. We’re sure as more travel opens up, this speakeasy is only going to get more popular and elusive to get into! We are so thankful to have been able to travel to Hawaii and try this newest hidden bar, and encourage anyone traveling to Oahu to make their way to Blind Ox before everyone knows about it!
Mahalo,
Your PSIs