Ah yes. The classic Mai Tai.

Lovely beachside views at RumFire

Just about every beachside hotel in Honolulu has a beachside bar. The recipe is fairly standard:

Take one indoor/outdoor space and attach it to a Honolulu hotel.

Add delightful tropical drinks and a mix of appetizers blending the familiar comforts of the mainland with island-themed flavors sprinkled liberally throughout the plates.

Drop in a dollop of tranquil tunes from a live musician or two with stringed instruments. Stir well and garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge.

Addition of a pool is optional but recommended for a stunning visual.

The RumFire at the Sheraton Waikiki follows this recipie to the letter complete with the optional pool access. In spite of the standard format, it does offer a more updated and lively approach to the standard Honolulu fare. For example, you can order the island classic — the mai tai and be quite satisfied with the delightful mix of pineapple and rum. Or, you can try one of their signature concoctions, the baja sun — a cocktail featuring jalepeno-infused tequila — or, my favorite, the dragonfire cooler — a frozen mixture that starts with the heat and finishes with the sweet.

After a few of these, you’d be advised to put a little something into your stomach. You won’t be disappointed by their awesome asian-sauced edamame or the delightful seared kalua pulled pork quesadilla that pairs so well with their drinks. If you plan your stop right, you don’t miss Spam Tuesdays. Order the Spam fried rice and you won’t be disappointed.