Art happening in Honolulu

After a few false starts, downtown Honolulu’s Chinatown galleryscene is now a don’t-miss. The main reason? First Friday Honoluluevening gallery walks, which give locals and visitors a compellingreason to wander the streets in search of art, entertainment, andtop-notch dining.

On the first Friday of each month thousands converge on theonce-notorious red-light district for the collaborative open house.The event’s surprise success has made it a catalyst for changingthe fortunes of not just the gallery scene but the downtown scenein general.

• The Pegge Hopper Gallery
Hopper is known worldwide for her paintings depicting thepoetic grace of Island women. Closed Sun-Mon. 1164 Nu’uanu Ave.; 808/524-1160.

• The Arts at Marks Garage
The group here spearheaded the creation of First FridayHonolulu. Closed Sun-Mon. 1159 Nu’uanu Ave.; 808/521-2903.

• RRed Elephant Cafe
Local art, robust house Kona coffee, pastries, and artisangelato. Closed Sun. 1144 Bethel St.; 808/545-2468.

• Indigo Eurasian Cuisine
An upscale fusion of Eastern and Western cuisines in a coollyromantic setting with huge scarlet lanterns. $$$$; Closed Sun-Mon. 1121 Nu’uanu Ave.; 808/521-2900.

• Hanks Cafe Honolulu
A charming, tchotchke-filled bar showing the owner’sPolynesian-themed paintings. 1038 Nu’uanu Ave.; 808/526-1410.

• Thirtynine-hotel
By night, home to an eclectic lineup of art, live jazz, andlate-night turntablism. By day, a Wi-Fi cafe with lectures and artclasses. Closed Sun-Mon. 39 N. Hotel St.; 808/599-2552.

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