$45 Pau Hana for 2: Affordable Happy Hour at Little Joe’s Steakhouse
The little brother to Signature Prime Steak has serious discounts daily.
With inflation nudging up prices across the board, we’ve been searching for happy hour spots where two people can eat well on a $45 budget. Our $45 Pau Hana for 2 series spotlights places where quality and value align. This time, we landed at Little Joe’s Steakhouse.
At the edge of Chinatown, Little Joe’s Nimitz location feels like a classic American steakhouse—white tablecloths, dark wood interiors and warm lighting. But don’t let the elegant vibe fool you: Its daily happy hour menu makes it surprisingly accessible. That’s because Little Joe’s is the more casual little brother of Signature Prime Steak & Seafood, whose generously discounted happy hour is very popular.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
The Bruschetta ($7.50) is a good way to start the meal. The bread is toasted just right, crispy while still holding some chew. It provides the perfect base for the tomato topping, which is a mix of freshness, acidity and a hint of sweetness from the balsamic drizzle. The flavors pair nicely, making it a light but satisfying bite.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
Next up: The Fish Tacos ($7.95) are a flavorful option that adds some variety to the meaty menu. Served on flour tortillas—though corn tortillas are my preference—they come topped with lettuce, diced tomatoes and a bold wasabi sauce. The fish is well-cooked and mild, but the wasabi sometimes overshadows the light flavors. That said, everything works together to make these enjoyable 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 cooked just right, the meat carries the dish. Served on a standard bun with lettuce and tomato, the steak shines, elevating what could’ve been a basic slider. There’s a garlic aioli on the side, but honestly, the steak doesn’t need it. It’s a simple dish done well and worth grabbing if you want something meaty without committing to a full entrée.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
For our main course, we opt for the 12-ounce Ribeye ($23.50), which is part of a happy hour special that allows you to choose between ribeye or New York strip. The pre-sliced steak is easy to share. Cooked medium rare, with a thin crust that adds texture, it is tender and packed with flavor. The seasoning is on point. Some pieces have a bit of connective tissue, but overall, this is a delicious, fatty cut that delivers good value for the price.
Since we couldn’t resist the ribeye, we went slightly over budget on this one. With everything ringing in at just $46.50 before tax and tip, we are satisfied and impressed. Little Joe’s might not be the first place you think of for a budget-friendly pau hana, but it’s earned a spot on our list.
Happy hour daily 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., multiple locations, littlejoessteakhouse.com, @littlejoessteakhouse
Former Frolic intern Lucas Kamata is a graduate of UH Mānoa’s Shidler College of Business.
