Jimmy Buffett takes over Don Ho’s space in Waikiki

Last night was the grand opening of Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber, his new restaurant in the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel.

It’s hallowed ground since the location once housed the Don Ho show.  At the VIP opening, the Land Shark beer (Buffett’s brand with Anheuser-Busch) and the margaritas (with Buffett’s licensed Margaritaville tequila) flowed freely.  And Buffett played a full set with his Coral Reefer Band.

Buffett’s beach vibe is Caribbean, not Hawaiian.  But Buffett made some gestures, including having Hawaii musicians Henry Kapono and Jake Shimabukuro on stage with him.

Shimabukuro has toured with Buffett, who spotted the Hawaii ukulele wizard in his now famous viral video, playing “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” in New York’s Central Park.  Says Jake, “He’s increased my exposure far more than I could have done on my own.”

Buffett’s $15-million, 400-seat Waikiki restaurant is open daily, with local music, casual food and, of course, his signature margaritas.

And, if you are on Oahu, you can catch Buffett and His Coral Reefer Band in concert at the Waikiki Shell tomorrow, Sat., Feb. 28th, at 7 p.m.  For tickets: (808) 591-2211 or click here.