Source: The Honolulu Advertiser
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/Aug/11/ln/ln09a.html
On August 11, 2004 the The Honolulu Advertiser reported, "some Buddhists are so concerned about the name of a new Waikiki bar that they have started a writing and telephone campaign to proprietors, politicians and community groups. The Buddha Bar, in the former House of Hong restaurant in Waikiki, opened Thursday. Some Buddhists find the name offensive... In a news release, the bar's developers, James R. Tennant and Victor Venson, say they are veterans of the nightlife scene in several cities, including San Francisco, where another Buddha Bar draws crowds to hear the latest in techno and electronica music. In a telephone interview last night, Venson said he has heard the objections, but said the owners did not intend to offend anyone. He said there are many Buddha Bars across the world, although the Waikiki location is not associated with them."