Balloons and schooners for all
Two blocks away from Pinky’s Pupu Bar and Grill on a private residential street fronting the beach stands a stop sign that was once tagged with a strategically stenciled ‘Bush’ underneath the traffic command. Another vandal has since altered that scribbling, covering up the final letter. It now begs the question: Who, exactly, is interested in stopping ‘Bus?’ It’s a good metaphor for the entire Kailua area, with its constant influx of military personnel rubbing shoulders with residents, tourists and families. The difficulty, then, is to find a place where all are welcome–which is precisely what Pinky’s strives to achieve. Large 18-ounce schooner glasses await the happy hour crowd who stay long after the drink specials end to indulge in some eats or watch the big-screen plasma television while families gather around the tables with their children to celebrate birthdays.
Pinky’s wasn’t immediately embraced with open arms. Despite insistence that the establishment was intended as a family-themed restaurant, the name, which pays homage to the long-standing Pinky’s Broiler that closed in the ’80s, raised suspicion. Some residents protested the application for a liquor license, fearing a return to the rowdy 2am sots who once tore through the peaceful neighborhood. Owner Gene Gunn assuaged the community’s fears by agreeing to a closing time of 10pm.
Some may cry foul at a Night Shift column featuring a place that closes just when the night is getting interesting, but Pinky’s works as a precursor or an epilogue to other things, whether that involves heading out for the nightlife or an end to a day on the windward beaches. For the most part, Pinky’s works as a no-frills gathering place with oversized drinks. If you’re looking for a place to cruise for hookups, this isn’t it. The entire joint has a wholesome feel to it, right down to the signed picture of Bob Denver near the restroom wall. Tuesday nights are popular with families, featuring the artistic wizardry of balloon shapers Jimmie and Chris Whitworth, who manage to make every patron shriek with delight regardless of age and level of sobriety.
If getting liquored up is what you intend to do, they’re happy to oblige. Featuring great happy hour prices including an 18-ounce Hefeweizen for $3 and a variety of mixed drinks ranging from $3.50 to $5.95, Pinky’s accommodates everyone from the sun-kissed beachgoer winding down to the professional club-hopper warming up for the night ahead.–Dean Carrico
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