Location: 675 Auahi St, Honolulu, HI 96825
Hours: M-F 7:30am to 5pm + weekends 8:30am to 5pm
My order: Loaded avocado toast w/o feta + cold brew w/ coconut milk
Atmosphere: I am originally from the beautiful island of O’ahu - an island who recently starting expanding in the business of independent coffee houses. So what is the buzz about coffee from the islands, anyway? I don’t know if it is the scent of salt water and coffee beans or the friendly island hospitality, but enjoying coffee on O’ahu is a unique experience. One of my favorite coffee houses on the island is Arvo - a locally owned cafe with delicious dishes, such as decadent toasts and beverages. My favorite pairing from this coffee house is their loaded avocado toast (minus the feta for my vegan/lactose intolerant friends) with a cold brew with coconut milk. It is the perfect snack for any time of the day - between a post-hike snack or an afternoon pick up, there is no wrong time to Arvo. Aside from their food pairings, another aspect about this coffee shop that I will always return for is the environment. From the outside, you are greeted by friendly faces and plant-life - an atmosphere that you want to share and take-in with loved ones. Being at Arvo reminds me of what I have always appreciated about growing up in O’ahu, and again, what I will always return home for.
Location: 412 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815
Hours: Everyday 6am to 9pm
My order: Cold brew with coconut milk
Atmosphere: This coffee house has the perfect location - on the outskirts of the beaches of Waikiki, O’ahu. It is located inside the Surf Jack hotel, and is equal parts coffee bar and boutique. Everything from the coffee cups to the espresso machine is cute, not to mention their island inspired decor. After ordering my cold brew with coconut milk, I sat next door at the hotel pool and went into full vacation mode. It was the perfect afternoon pick me up, and the owner’s of this coffee house meets boutique own a few boutiques on another part of the island, as well. Good to see their business is expanding, and toward one of my favorite things to enjoy - good coffee.
3. Island Brew Coffee House
Location: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Ala Moana Mall
Hours: M-S 7am to 9pm + Sunday 7am to 7pm
My order: Iced almond milk latte with lavender
Atmosphere: Upon my return to the island, I had to visit the newest location of Island Brew Coffee House. While I was living on the island, the first location of Island Brew Coffee House was opened. It was my favorite coffee house to visit - firstly, because it was right around the corner from my house and secondly, because they had delicious vegan-friendly desserts. One of my favorite pairings was their vegan lavender cake with a iced lavender latte - absolutely delicious, and definitely did not skimp on the lavender. The new location in the mall has a similar environment, and is a perfect getaway from shopping. I appreciate that both locations are consistent with making delicious coffee, and having a welcoming staff. This is my new go-to coffee shop anytime I find myself returning to the islands for a day of shopping. However, their location on the east side of O’ahu will always be my favorite. (Separate blog post to come <3)
