New Jimmy Buffett restaurant comes to Oahu.
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Jimmy Buffett sings the sort of laid-back songs that naturally evoke an island lifestyle. Turns out he has had a longtime love affair with Hawaii, where a restaurant with his name on the door will soon make him a regular fixture on Oahu.
During the first quarter of 2009, the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel — part of the Outrigger Enterprises Group — is opening Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber, showcasing Hawaii’s first Jimmy Buffett restaurant. The $15 million venue will occupy more than 22,000 square feet with seating for 400 customers.
"From the first time I rode a wave off Waikiki, I began to figure out how I could get back to Hawaii on a more regular basis," said Buffett. "I’m not the first, nor will I be the last, traveler to do so, but now with the partnership of the great folks at Outrigger Hotels, I have realized my dream and we will soon be open in Waikiki."
"Our partnership with Jimmy Buffett has made it possible to bring this unique new concept to Waikiki," said Dean Nakasone, general manager of the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber, which is wrapping up a major renovation. "Guests staying at the newly transformed Beachcomber will get to enjoy Jimmy’s island-style magic, making their visit here even more special."
Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber occupies a prominent spot on Kalakaua Ave., in the former Hibiscus Cafe and Don Ho and Blue Hawaii showrooms. The restaurant celebrates Jimmy’s adventurous lifestyle and the natural wonders of Hawaii. Guests can dine on open-air lanais or within the island atmosphere of the facility.
The menu at Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber — seafood, burgers and regional favorites — will be family-friendly and straightforward. For adult refreshments there will be unique boat drinks, margaritas, frozen concoctions and ice-cold beer. Interior design plans call for island-inspired colors, graphics and materials providing a touch of the tropics. Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber will also feature live nightly entertainment.
"We’re delighted Jimmy Buffett has chosen us as a partner to deliver such a significant new concept for Waikiki," said Barbara Campbell, vice president of retail development for Outrigger Enterprises Group. "Jimmy has taught the world how to appreciate the relaxed, slower pace of island cultures around the world, and we are honored he is now coming to Hawaii to continue the celebration of all that makes our island home so special."
"I have written many stories and songs inspired by my time in Hawaii," Buffett said, "and I can’t wait to see what the future holds in the land that is so far but yet so near."