15 Best Coffee Shops In Honolulu, Hawaii

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JP

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Honolulu is a great city with a lot to offer, from world-famous beaches such as Waikiki to the naval base. It’s the capital of Hawaii and home to some of the best coffee shops in the islands.

The Hawaiian Islands are known for their delicious food and drinks. The people here love coffee, and they do so with gusto.

There are many different styles of coffee shops in Honolulu. Some serve traditional Hawaiian dishes, while others have more modern menus.

Best coffee shops in Honolulu
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The Best Honolulu Coffee Shops

Here is our selection of the 15 best coffee shops in Honolulu.

1. Ali’i Coffee Co

The name of this place says it all. This is a small, local coffee shop on a busy Chinatown street. 

Ali’i does everything well. And while there isn’t much seating inside, outside tables offer shade and allow for people to watch.

And the coffee here is incredible. You won’t find better espresso anywhere else in Hawaii. 

2. Island Vintage Coffee

The second location of Island Vintage Coffee opened in December 2017.

Their menu includes everything from sweet treats to savory dishes and, of course, delicious coffee. You can also try their signature poke bowls, which come with various toppings.

They offer sweet and savory options, including mac & cheese, bacon, avocado, and more. 

For dessert, you can choose from classics such as brownies and cookies or something more unique, like chocolate-covered mac & cheese balls.

3. Kai Coffee Hawaii

Kai Coffee Hawaii is a local favorite.

They serve up some of the best coffee in Hololulu and are located right in the heart of downtown Waikiki.

With various drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, smoothies, juices, and more, there’s something for everyone here.

4. Kona Coffee Purveyors

In their recently expanded space inside the International Marketplace in Honolulu, Kona Coffee Purveyors offers chic coffee, breakfast, and desserts.

It’s one of Waikiki’s best places to get fresh, local Kona coffee. 

Their menu features everything from macarons to croissants, scones, and crepes. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than in their spacious café.

5. The Halekulani Bakery

Halekulani Hotel & Café, located on Waikiki Beach, is a quaint café that offers a variety of breakfast items, lunch specials, specialty drinks, and a full menu of baked goods.

But what sets this cafe apart is its commitment to sourcing locally-grown produce.

The Halekulani uses ingredients from farms throughout Oahu, including Kona Coffee Company, which sources its beans from a farm near Keauhou.

They use taro root, which grows abundantly in the area, to make their signature pineapple banana bread.

And for their macadamia nut cookies, they source nuts from a nearby farm.

6. Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe

Waikiki’s Halekulani Bakeria is a true hidden gem. Located across the street from the iconic House Without A Key, the bakery makes some of the most delectable treats.

You know you are entering something special when you step into the bright white space.

The bakery feels both welcoming and intimate with its bright, open kitchen and communal tables. 

7. Local Joe

This local Honolulu coffee shop chain opened in late 2016 and has been attracting customers with its unique concept.

The brand offers specialty coffees, espresso drinks, smoothies, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and desserts.

However, one thing that sets it apart from others is that it serves lattes with aloha written across the top.

8. Arvo Cafe

Inside the SALT At Our Kaka’ako Marketplace, Arvo Cafe is one of the best places to grab a quick bite.

Located inside the SALT marketplace, Arvo serves delicious light snacks such as sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.

Stop by before heading out for lunch or dinner in the market.

You’ll find plenty of great options nearby, including Haleiwa Fish Market & Grill, Honolulu Pizza Company, and Mauna Kea Coffee Roasters.

If you want something different, try the signature “Kakawiki,” a sweet potato pancake topped with macadamia nuts and coconut flakes.

Arvo Café is just steps away from Ala Moana Beach Park, where you can enjoy some much-needed sunshine while sipping on freshly brewed coffee or take your coffee to the beach.

9. Island Brew Coffeehouse

Island Brew Coffee House opened in 2012 and has three locations across Oahu.

Each serves delicious coffee beverages, smoothies, espresso drinks, and baked goods such as muffins, scones, cookies, cakes, and pies.

And there are plenty of options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free folks, too.

There are two premium locations in the Ala Moana Shopping Center and Hawaii Kai Shopping Center.

Both offer outdoor seating, free Wi-Fi, and umbrellas for shade.

10. Honolulu Coffee

Honolulu Coffee is a locally owned and operated coffee shop chain based in Oahu. 

The company offers a range of coffees from different regions, including Hawaii, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Kenya, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Yemen.

They’re also known for their delicious flavors, including chocolate chip cookie dough, banana pudding, coconut cream pie, and even alcoholic drinks.

They offer espresso, Americanos, and specialty drinks like kalua pig latte, macchiato, cappuccino, chai, and smoothies.

Their drinks are made from scratch daily, using high-quality ingredients like Hawaiian honey, Maui pineapple juice, and dairy products from local farms.

11. Cafe Kaila

This snappy coffee and brunch-only place near the Kanewa Community Park has been a favorite in the local area since it opened in 2003.

When you walk into the cafe, you’ll be greeted with a happy and bright island vibe that permeates the freshness and tasty appeal of the food. 

If you fancy something fluffy and sweet, go for the Belgian malt waffle, while those looking for something lighter might prefer the classic French toast.

There are many savory sides, including the popular spam, a Hawaiian staple.

Kids love the breakfast burrito, and there are plenty of healthy choices, like fruit salads and veggie burgers.

There are plenty of side options and a kid’s menu; Cafe Kaila offers a wide variety of dishes for everyone to enjoy.

12. Moena Cafe

The Moena Cafe is one of those special places where you know you’ve found something unique.

Located just off Kalaniana’ole Highway in Waikiki, it’s the perfect place for a quick bite, uplifting coffee, or a meal.

The fish breakfast incorporates the day’s fresh catches with eggs, rice or potatoes. At the same time, visitors can choose from several crepe options – including Nutella – and savory dishes like the short rib loco Moco.

Plenty of seating is inside, outside, and even in the pond out front.

You’ll find a variety of tables and seats, some with umbrellas and a few outdoor tables along the water.

You can’t miss the restaurant, either. It’s right across the street from the Koko Marina Center Building, so stop in for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.

13. Morning Brew

Morning Brew is a cozy cafe off Ala Moana Boulevard near the Kewalo Basin harbor.

Their menu offers everything from traditional Hawaiian favorites like lomi salmon, poi pancakes, and kalua pig to exotic choices like a veggie omelet and a macadamia nut-crusted mahimahi.

The place itself is quaint, inviting, and comfortable.

There are plenty of tables and chairs outside to enjoy aloha vibes while watching the world pass by.

Inside, it feels much cozier and more intimate. You’ll find yourself lingering over coffee or tea longer than usual because there’s no rush here.

14. Koko Head Cafe

Located off Waialae Avenue and near Kaimuki Beach Park, this laidback eatery/coffee shop serves Hawaiian-inspired dishes, such as Island Style Brunch.

With options such as the Breakfast Bibimbap, featuring eggs, rice, vegetables, and meat topped with a delicious sauce, it’s hard to go wrong here. 

For those looking for a lighter option, check out their “All Day Wong,” a dish of steamed pork dumplings served over rice.

For dessert, don’t miss out on one of their mouth-watering pastries, especially their coconut cream pie and chocolate cake. They’re both incredible!

15. Bogarts

Located off Monsarrat Avenue, not far from Queen Kapiolani Garden, is Bogart’s Cafe.

If you think of brunch as a heavy meal that makes you tired or want more food, you’re in for a surprise.

Bogarts uses only the freshest and best ingredients, and the difference can be seen immediately.

First of all, you can always get whatever type of coffee or tea suits your preference; it is an absolute must at a great brunch spot. 

There are also several different types of acai bowls, smoothie drinks, and even milkshake options. Or maybe you’d rather try some fried rice, a crab and avocado omelet, grilled kimchi cheese, and more.

Conclusion 

Honolulu has many coffee shops serving amazing coffee and delectable cuisine.

And if you’re looking for something special, these 15 coffee shops in Hololulu should please you.

Remember, the next time you get your phone out to search for the best coffee near me in Honolulu, return to this page and try another of our recommendations.

Check out the best coffee shops in Hawaii in the other places we cover.

Other Hawaii Cities: Maui coffee shops and Hawaii coffee shops.

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