Cha Cha Cha Salsaria is located on the waterfront at Hawaii Kai Shopping Center and offers outstanding views of Koko Head Crater. Known for delicious margaritas and pineapple habanero salsa, Cha Cha Cha provides a relaxing atmosphere and inexpensive cocktails. The large outdoor patio offers seating in the shade or the sun and makes for a great place to watch fishermen, paddlers and water sports enthusiasts pass by.

Unfortunately, no food items are offered at happy-hour prices, yet many of its appetizers are reasonably priced and worth sharing with friends. My personal favorite is the guacamole, which comes with spicy pineapple habanero salsa. I recommend coming for this dish alone, but it also pairs well with a margarita. The chicken enchiladas are another worthy pick, served in a large portion that is easily shared.

Cha Cha Cha offers a taste of traditional Mexican food but with a hint local flavor. I would call this restaurant “;Mexican inspired”; more than an authentic Mexican restaurant.

Cocktails offered during happy hour are draft beers and margaritas. I'm quite impressed with the margaritas, as they are well priced and absolutely delicious. However, I suggest the restaurant add a few more cocktails and possibly some pupus to its happy-hour menu to compete with nearby bars.

Overall, Cha Cha Cha offers nothing more and nothing less than an average happy hour. The atmosphere is quite relaxing, although the food and service could use a bit of improvement. While our waitress was nice, we were the only group on the patio during our visit and still sat for 10 minutes before being greeted.

Happy hour:
» 3 to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays (happy hour continues all night on Tuesdays)
» $3.25 house margaritas and draft beers
» Happy Hour for Two: 4 cocktails, 1 pupu, 1 entree for $34 (not including tax and tip)

Parking:

» Free parking available

What needs help:
» Discounted pupus are needed during happy hour to attract more customers.
» Service during happy hour could be improved to keep customers in the restaurant.

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