Aloha Tower Marketplace is home to Gordon Biersch, an open-air brew pub that originally opened for business in 1994. Known for its delicious beer, the Honolulu location is situated along the water's edge with a large seating area that is great for people-watching.

Happy hour is served at two different bars—the inside bar is a quiet place to watch a game or host an informal business meeting, while the outside bar is geared toward live music and socializing. During the week the outdoor lanai often fills up with downtown workers looking to kick back and enjoy a beer after a busy day in the office.

My beverage of choice at Gordon Biersch during happy hour is a $4 pint of Marzen, a Bavarian lager that is the perfect refreshment on a warm summer day. A large selection of martinis, mojitos and margaritas is available for $5 during happy hour, and all are made with high-quality liquors.

Pupu selections are mainly pub-style appetizers—the garlic fries are a perennial customer favorite here—although some items are definitely better than others. Still, portion sizes are good, and the food pairs well with a cocktail as an after-work snack or complete meal.

Along with the views of Honolulu Harbor, the live entertainment offered outside is a nice touch during happy hour. I particularly enjoy the music during Jazz Wednesdays at the brew pub, but the performers rotate, so be sure to check Gordon Biersch's Facebook profile to keep up with all the latest updates.

The service could use some improvement, especially during happy hour. During my visit, I had to flag my waitress down every time I wanted something—especially at the end of happy hour when I was trying to get one last food order in.

Overall, however, the atmosphere, music and beer are the highlights of this pau hana pick. The bands, breeze and brews help make this busy spot really come alive, yet the vibe is still mellow enough to allow you to just kick back and relax.

Happy hour:
» 4 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays
» $1 off all Gordon Biersch lagers
» $2 off all wines by the glass
» $5 martinis, margaritas and mojitos
» Happy Hour for Two: 4 draft pints and 2 mojitos for $28 (not including tax and tip)

Parking:
» Valet and validated parking available

Pupu picks:
» Southwest Eggrolls ($4.95)
» Tapas ($4.95)
» Housemade Chips ($4.95)
» Glazed Chicken Wings ($4.95)
» Crispy Artichoke Hearts ($4.95)
» Garlic Fries ($4.95)

”;Pau Hana Patrol”; is a weekly look at Honolulu bar and restaurant happy hours. To read more about this week's featured bar, visit hilife.starbulletin.com. E-mail happy hour tips to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).