WWith inflation driving up prices across the board, we’ve been looking for happy hour spots where two people can eat well on a $45 budget. Our $45 Hana Peace for 2 Series highlights where quality and value align. This time, we landed on Little Joe’s Steakhouse.
On the edge of Chinatown, the Little Joe’s Nimitz location feels like a typical American steakhouse: white tablecloths, dark wood interiors, and warm lighting. But don’t let the fancy atmosphere fool you: its daily happy hour menu makes it surprisingly approachable. That’s because Little Joe’s is the more casual little brother of Signature Prime Steak & Seafood, the generously discounted happy hour is very popular.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
The Bruschetta ($7.50) is a great way to start the meal. The bread is toasted just right, crisp while still retaining some chewiness. It provides the perfect base for the tomato topping, which is a mix of freshness, tartness and a hint of sweetness from the balsamic drizzle. The flavors combine well, making it a light but satisfying bite.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
Next: The fish tacos ($7.95) are a tasty option that adds some variety to the meaty menu. Served with flour tortillas, although corn tortillas are my preference, they come topped with lettuce, diced tomatoes and a bold wasabi sauce. The fish is well cooked and soft, but the wasabi sometimes overshadows the light flavors. That said, everything works together to make these nice bites.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
The Steak Sliders ($7.50) are a pleasant surprise. While on the smaller side, expected for a happy hour menu, the quality of the steak makes up for it. Tender, well seasoned and well cooked, the meat carries the dish. Served on a standard lettuce and tomato bun, the steak shines, elevating what could have been a basic slider. There’s an aioli on the side, but honestly, the steak doesn’t need it. It’s a simple dish done well and worth picking up if you want something meaty without committing to a full entree.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
For our main course, we go for the 12-ounce Ribeye ($23.50), which is part of a happy hour special that lets you choose between ribeye or New York strip. The pre-cut steak is easy to share. Cooked medium rare, with a thin crust that adds texture, it’s tender and full of flavor. The seasoning is ready. Some pieces have a bit of connective tissue, but overall, this is a delicious, fat cut that offers good value for the price.
Since we couldn’t resist the cutlet, we went a little more budget for this one. At only $46.50 before tax and tip, we are satisfied and impressed. Little Joe’s might not be the first place you think of for an inexpensive pau hana, but it’s earned a spot on our list.
Happy hour every day from 16:30 to 18:30 at various locations, littlejoessteakhouse.com, @littlejoessteakhouse
Former scholarship holder of Frolic Lucas Kamata is a graduate of the Shidler College of Business at UH Mānoa.
