A Local’s Guide to the Most Loved Coffee Shops in Honolulu, HI
Honolulu’s coffee culture is as vibrant and refreshing as the island breeze. The city’s coffee shops are more than just places to grab a quick brew; they are community hubs, creative spaces, and a celebration of Hawaii’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a cup of pure Kona coffee or a specialty drink with a local twist, you’ll find a café that feels uniquely Honolulu.
Here’s a curated guide to 10 of the most loved coffee shops in Honolulu, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Honolulu Originals & Roasters
1. Honolulu Coffee
📍 Multiple locations
A true Hawaiian institution, Honolulu Coffee is a “farm to cup” roaster that owns and operates its own coffee farm on the Big Island. Known for its pure Kona coffee and commitment to quality, its cafes offer a taste of authentic Hawaiian coffee in beautiful, welcoming spaces.
2. Island Vintage Coffee
📍 Multiple locations
A beloved and popular spot, Island Vintage Coffee is famous for its 100% Kona coffee and healthy acai bowls. With a strong focus on community and a relaxed, aloha-filled atmosphere, it’s a go-to for both tourists and locals looking for a classic Hawaiian coffee experience.
3. Kona Coffee Purveyors
📍 2330 Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
For a luxurious coffee experience, Kona Coffee Purveyors is a must-visit. Located in the International Market Place, this stylish cafe offers meticulously crafted 100% Kona coffee and is home to the renowned San Francisco-based b. patisserie, making it a perfect pairing of high-end coffee and pastries.
4. The Curb
📍 Multiple locations
The Curb started as a coffee truck and has grown into a local favorite with multiple locations. Known for its serious approach to specialty coffee, this spot is celebrated for its pour-overs and a commitment to serving high-quality beans from various roasters.
Neighborhood Gems
5. Morning Glass Coffee
📍 2955 E. Mānoa Rd., Honolulu, HI 96822
Tucked away in the lush Mānoa Valley, Morning Glass Coffee is a charming open-air cafe known for its artisanal coffee and delicious food. It’s a peaceful escape from the city, offering a diverse selection of beans from around the world and a menu of hefty breakfast sandwiches and pancakes.
6. Arvo
📍 324 Coral St, Honolulu, HI 96813
Located in the trendy SALT at Our Kaka’ako, Arvo is a hip, Australian-inspired cafe. Known for its aesthetic design, delicious avocado toasts, and unique drinks like the lavender latte, it’s a favorite among locals and an Instagram-worthy spot for visitors.
7. Ali’i Coffee Co.
📍 Multiple locations
With a strong presence in downtown Honolulu, Ali’i Coffee Co. is known for its warm, welcoming vibe and delicious, innovative drinks. They roast their own beans and offer a variety of unique flavor concoctions, like a honey latte with toasted coconut.
8. Local Joe
📍 1104 Nu’uanu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96817
A small-batch roaster and cafe in the heart of Honolulu’s Arts District, Local Joe is a no-nonsense spot loved for its quality coffee. They roast their beans using a traditional drum roaster and are famous for their ability to print any image on coffee foam, adding a touch of fun to the experience.
9. The Sunrise Shack
📍 2311 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
While its original location is on the North Shore, The Sunrise Shack in Waikiki brings its laid-back, surf-inspired vibes to the city. Known for their “Bulletproof Coffee,” this iconic spot is perfect for a quick, energizing brew and a taste of the authentic North Shore lifestyle.
Worth a Visit
10. Kai Coffee Hawaii
📍 Multiple locations
With multiple locations, Kai Coffee is a convenient and beloved option throughout Honolulu. They are a family-owned business and are particularly famous for their signature Kai Latte, a unique drink made with a hint of macadamia nut that perfectly captures the taste of the islands.
Honolulu’s coffee landscape is a vibrant and welcoming one. Whether you’re stopping for a quick visit to Island Vintage Coffee or settling in for a long afternoon at Morning Glass, each café offers a distinct and delicious experience that perfectly captures the heart of the Aloha State.
