Stormy’s Gastropub offers delicious food, relaxing atmosphere

Stormy’s Gastropub provides a relaxing hangout for both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is casual, with a friendly, laid-back North Shore vibe.

THE EXPERIENCE

Stormy’s is in the center of Haleiwa town in the former location of Luibueno’s Mexican restaurant. The space is colorful and well lit. It’s small with a lively atmosphere, so it’s a bit loud, but the space is comfortable. You get the feeling that servers will remember you if you stop in again.

You can order off the happy-hour menu anywhere in the establishment, not just at the bar.

The attentive staff made us feel welcome. Dustin Pokrass, part-owner, was behind the bar and offered suggestions for cocktails and food. There was a good mix of locals and tourists.

THE FOOD

Happy-hour plates are full portions, discounted for pau hana. The food was delicious but not so nutritious — fried foods, cheese and creamy dipping sauces predominate.

We enjoyed a serving of delicious sticky cheese fries ($7), topped with a flavorful combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, bacon and jalapenos, served with a side of ranch dipping sauce.

The hummus plate ($7) had one scoop of traditional hummus and one scoop of black bean hummus, served with cucumber slices and a yummy, lightly fried pita bread. The black bean hummus was scrumptious as well, paired with that fried bread! We were informed that the hummus flavors change on a regular basis, so they may be different when you stop by.

My friend had the shrimp taco ($4), topped with Memphis-style coleslaw and an avocado-cilantro ranch sauce. She said the small blackened pieces of shrimp, which easily could have been overcooked, were done perfectly.

A beer-battered fish taco ($4) is made with cod, topped with the Memphis coleslaw and a Sriracha aioli. The fish was crispy on the outside and soft and flaky on the inside.

Although not on the happy-hour menu, the pub offers an array of American food items, such as pizza, burgers, seafood and hearty salads. They’re reasonably priced if you prefer to order something else with your beer or cocktail.

THE DRINKS

A cocktail combining Midori melon liqueur and pineapple juice — at just $4 — was my drink of choice. It was refreshing and tasty.

My friend ordered a mango margarita ($5.50), which was much too strong for my taste. She said it was a “good budget buzz.”

Stormy’s offers a large selection of beers, both bottle and draft, wine and specialty cocktails. During happy hour, take $2 off draft beers (except Rolling Rock). Well drinks are $4 and margaritas are $5.50.

THE VERDICT

This is basic pub fare, but it’s fresh and flavorful.

I’d definitely stop by again. It’s a great place to relax before you go to watch the sunset.