Hana Koa Brewing Co.

Sommelier Audit Deconstruction

Hana Koa Brewing Co. runs out of a Kakaʻako warehouse taproom, part of the industrial-chic wave that's turned that Honolulu neighborhood into one of Oʻahu's most interesting places to drink. It's a big, open space with the kind of high-ceiling, exposed-beam feel that makes an afternoon session turn into an evening without much resistance. The overall score of 4.6 puts Hana Koa near the top of our Hawaiʻi list, and it's easy to see why once you're inside — this is a taproom built around volume and variety, with enough room and enough rotating taps to keep both first-timers and regulars occupied. It's Kakaʻako at its current best: unpretentious, a little loud, genuinely good beer. Seek out the Hop Defender if you want a clean, assertive IPA that shows the brewery's hop-forward instincts, and don't skip the Kettle Run sours if tartness is your thing — they're a good showcase of the more adventurous side of the program. Visitors exploring Kakaʻako should treat this as a required stop alongside the neighborhood's galleries and coffee shops. Locals already have their regular seat here — and if you don't yet, it's worth finding one.

From the Tasting Ledger

Beers we've reviewed from Hana Koa Brewing Co.

Hop Defender

Hana Koa Brewing Co. // 8.2/10

Kettle Run — Peach Apricot

Hana Koa Brewing Co. // 7.2/10