$45 Pau Hana for 2: Smash Burgers and Onion Rings at Morton’s Power Hour

With prices on the rise, we’re on the hunt for the best happy hour deals where two people can fill up without breaking the bank. Frolic’s $45 Pau Hana series (yes, we’ve upped it from our earlier $40 price point) scopes out crave-worthy spots that deliver value.

If you think Morton’s the Steakhouse is just for special occasions and fancy filets, think again. The classic steakhouse in Ala Moana Center delivers a great pau hana deal—and yes, you can do it for just about $45 for two before tax and tip.

Available in the bar area Sunday through Friday from 4 to 6:30 p.m., Morton’s “Power Hour” menu features 10 food options—think petit filet mignon sliders, fried chicken sandwiches and Shrimp Louie wedge bites—plus select cocktails, wines and beers. My mom and I went in hungry and walked out full, happy and with a new go-to spot after a day of shopping.

Here’s what we ate.

Mini Morton’s Crab Cakes, $18

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

These crab cakes are made with lump and blue crab and panko, served with a light arugula salad and a whole-grain mustard beurre blanc—a buttery sauce with just enough tang to balance the sweetness of the crab. The cakes are tender and flavorful, and the greens cut through the richness. I’d absolutely order this again.

Morton’s Wagyu Smash Burger, $19.78

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

Three thin wagyu beef patties smashed down with caramelized onions, cheddar cheese and special sauce, all on a toasted brioche bun. It also comes with a generous serving of matchstick fries that are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

This burger is way bigger than I expect—honestly, it could have fed both of us on its own—and the patties are juicy. Next time, I’m curious to try the Smash Burger Sliders—they’re easier to share and have more of a pūpū-style vibe. That said, the full-size burger is definitely worth it.

Thick-Cut Onion Rings, $8

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

The perfect bar snack, these onion rings are stacked high. The light, crunchy batter isn’t too greasy and has a slight chewy texture. They come with a creamy, boldly flavored truffle dipping sauce. I liked switching it up between that and classic ketchup. The portion is definitely shareable.

SEE ALSO: $40 Pau Hana for 2: Crunch and Savory-Sweet at Kapa Hale

Morton’s Power Hour delivers on flavor, value and that classic steakhouse vibe without the high price tag. Whether you’re winding down after shopping or just looking for an indulgent pau hana, this is a deal worth checking out.

Morton’s is oceanside on the mall level of Ala Moana Center, right behind Aritizia and near Bloomingdale’s. There’s an elevator at the edge of the parking lot—get in, go up and you’ll be greeted by the host stand as the doors open.

Happy hour Sunday through Friday 4 to 6:30 p.m., restaurant open 4 to 9 p.m., 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Ala Moana, mortons.com

Former Frolic Hawai‘i intern Katelyn Pabila graduated from the UH Shidler College of Business with a degree in marketing and finance.