This week we welcome a new feature to the pages of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin.

“;Pau Hana Patrol”; is a weekly column that will explore Oahu's restaurant and bar scene in search of the best deals available for the budget-conscious and those looking to try something different.

Carey Reynolds, an Internet advertising account manager by day, will lead the way to both well-known and off-the-beaten-path establishments and report her findings each week in HILife, with an expanded report at hilife.starbulletin.com. She is also on Twitter.com as @HappyHourHawaii.

Born and raised in Indiana, Reynolds is a graduate of Indiana University and first moved to Oahu in 2005. Traveling is her “;one true love”; and has led her on backpacking trips throughout Europe, Canada and Asia. She returned to the islands earlier this year and says she is “;now here for good.”; —— Jason Genegabus, Star-Bulletin

Great bread fuels a good time

Brasserie Du Vin is a cozy restaurant modeled after the cafes of rural France and hosts a mellow and romantic crowd of people looking to relax. But every first Friday, the atmosphere turns into a lively mix of people waiting for Chinatown's art galleries to open.

If you are not a fan of French cuisine, this might not be the place for you—the dishes bring you authentic tastes and bold flavors, although they tend to be a bit salty. Every time I go to Du Vin, I enjoy the mussels, baked brie and fresh mozzarella. Another one of the best things about this restaurant is the perfectly baked French bread served immediately after you've been seated.

BRASSERIE DU VIN 1115 Bethel St., 545-1115         www.brasserieduvin.com         Ratings (out of 5):         » Atmosphere 5.0         » Food 4.0         » Cocktails 4.0         » Price 4.0         » Service 3.5         » Average 4.1

Du Vin's happy hour features discounted martinis, specialty and well drinks, but does not include beer or wine. While not commonly offered during happy hour, Du Vin does serve a cocktail called the Kir Royale, a wonderful concoction of champagne and chambord that is quite delicious.

The atmosphere and food quality are generally the same during repeat visits here, but the quality of drinks and service varies. Consistency between bartenders is something you should be able to expect, especially from the French.

Happy Hour:

» 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays
» Happy Hour for Two: Two premium cocktails, two martinis and two appetizers for $31 (not including tax and tip)
Parking:
» Metered street parking
» Garage parking starts at a flat rate of $5
Amenities:
» Free WiFi available
» “;Bottomless”; basket of French bread
Pupu Picks:
» Pommes frites (French fries)
» Soup du jour
» Herb-marinated olives
» Escargots
» Fresh mozzarella and vine-ripe tomatoes
» Salad of marinated artichokes, bell peppers, olives and salami
» Baked brie
» Grilled fish served with olive butter and white bean salad
» Spring mussels steamed with white wine and topped with frites

What needs help:

Consistency among bartenders, waiters and dish availability is a must. Du Vin should also consider adding a house wine and beer to the Happy Hour menu.