Winter on Oahu's famous North Shore typically means two things: Big surf and even bigger crowds.

When the waves are bumping, surfers and sightseers from around Hawaii—and the world—converge on the short stretch of Kamehameha Highway between Waimea and Waialua. Naturally, all these people need someplace to go for drinks and pupus after a long day at the beach.

At Banzai Sushi Bar, sea creatures and snowbirds alike pack the outdoor seating area that doubles as a performance space most nights of the week. About half of the tables here are low to the ground, requiring customers to sit on pillows and tuck their legs underneath themselves. If your back and knees can't handle it, opt for one of the regular dinner tables; a small sushi bar and additional seating is also available indoors.

Happy hour is wisely offered early in the evening (or late in the afternoon, as the case may be) to catch a mix of customers who may be heading in from the ocean or just arriving in Haleiwa for an evening of North Shore shenanigans. Banzai discounts all its food by 20 percent from 3 to 5 p.m. every day, making some of the menu's lower-priced items even more affordable.

Sushi veterans will be comforted by well-constructed basics like the negihama roll ($7.50) and ahi poke ($9.75). The fresh salmon nigiri ($4.95 for two pieces) was cut pretty thick and lacked any of the fishy taste that would signal poor handling in the kitchen. The menu also includes a variety of handrolls for the more adventurous, plus a variety of salads and heartier plates for those looking to really chow down.

For locals looking for an affordable late lunch or early start to the evening, keep Banzai in mind—especially during the spring and summer months when the crowds are much smaller.

Happy Hour:
» 3 to 5 p.m. daily
» 20 percent off all food items
» $3 small (12 oz.) and $5 large (20 oz.) beers

Parking:
» Free parking available

Pupu Picks:
» Banzai Roll ($10.50)
» Negihama Roll ($7.50)
» Pupu Platter ($25)
» Seared Ahi Salad ($8.75)
» Spicy Salmon Roll ($9)

What Needs Help:
» More servers are needed on busy weekend nights to handle the winter crowds
» A better seating management system is needed to prevent cutting in line

Pau Hana Patrol is a weekly look at Honolulu bar and restaurant happy hours. E-mail happy hour tips to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).