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14 Most-Loved Coffee Shops in Honolulu, Oʻahu
The Best Coffee in Honolulu When You’re Not Just Looking for Kona
Coffee first arrived in Hawai‘i in the 1820s, and over two centuries later, it’s still a big part of daily life on the islands. In fact, Hawai‘i is the only U.S. state that grows coffee on a commercial scale, with Kona beans leading the charge from the Big Island. But even if you're not sipping a $30 pour-over, Honolulu knows how to do good coffee. From back-alley espresso bars in Chinatown to beachy spots brewing nutty macadamia lattes, O‘ahu’s capital is full of places to refuel, people-watch, or chase down the best banana bread. Whether you're hunting down that perfect iced latte after a Diamond Head hike or want a peaceful corner to sit with a matcha and a guava pastry, this guide highlights the best local coffee shops that blend flavor, chill vibes, and genuine aloha spirit.
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Ali‘i Coffee Co.
Tucked at the end of Chinatown, Ali‘i Coffee Co. serves rich Kona and a honey latte with toasted coconut that tastes like a tropical hug. The cozy shop with warm, personable staff offers both sweet and savory daily specials. Nitro cold brew and a turkey-avocado breakfast sandwich are perfect midday treats. It’s a friendly local spot with just enough character to feel like home.
Bean About Town
This small but mighty coffee shop rocks specialty beans from Sight Glass and serves a fresh, balanced cortado. Limited seating doesn’t matter—this place is about quality, not crowding. The friendly staff help pick beans to bring home, and you might just end up taking a whole bag back to Seattle. If you're hunting for smooth, dependable coffee, it's a solid, understated choice.
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4.9
of 5.0
(224)
Pai Cafe coffee & acai bowls
Pai Cafe feels refreshingly chill with indoor-outdoor seating, great service, and a lavender oat milk latte that’s worth loving. Their açaí bowl has a loyal fanbase—it’s fresh, colorful, and big enough to keep you fueled. The space is light and laid back, letting you sip slowly or grab and go. Pairing coffee with health-conscious bites and a calm vibe makes this a local favorite.
Honolulu Coffee at Ala Moana
A reliable franchise that feels local thanks to top-notch service and Hawaiian pride. The pour-over coffee hits every time, and the Hawaiian açaí bowl is a hefty breakfast treat. The Ala Moana Mall spot hustles during rush hour, but the team keeps things moving with smiles. You’ll find souvenirs and branded beans to take a bit of island spirit home with you.
Drip Studio HNL
Drip Studio brings specialty coffee vibes with standout Japanese iced pour-over, matcha, and mellow hojicha. Their vegetarian and gluten-free snacks are thoughtful and tasty. The staff know their stuff and love sharing coffee knowledge. For fans of minimal, balanced drinks and a chill coffee moment, this spot feels like a cozy lab of good taste.
Downtown Coffee Honolulu
This no-frills coffee window is instant Hawaiian sunshine: fast, accurate, and joyful service with every cup. The iced mocha stops you in your tracks it’s that good. Compact but full of aloha, it’s a commuter’s dream or a quick treat between errands. Plus, they sell local gift items so you can take some island goodwill wherever you go.
4.8
of 5.0
(76)
Kai Coffee Hawaii
Cleo’s macadamia latte starred in our hearts, and their açaí bowl drizzled with honey brings that good island energy. The small café bustles with friendly chatter from staff eager to hear your story. If you want something more than just coffee, like a moment of connection, Kai feels instantly warm and welcoming.
Better Daze Coffee
Better Daze lives up to its name with coconut cloud‑nine drinks, fresh banana bread, and laid-back shack vibes. Their breakfast bars, bagels, and cold lattes hit the sweet spot. It’s a perfect shaded nook to hang out lightheartedly with a friend or a book. Simple, approachable, and refreshingly local—the kind of place you want in your morning routine.
Kona Mountain Coffee - Honolulu
This small vendor breathes aloha into every cup, with ohana-level welcome and beans that proudly showcase Kona’s legacy. They offer samples, bags of beans, and chocolate-covered nuts that feel like gift-grade treats. It’s honest and local—no flash, just proud coffee craft that’ll make you appreciate why Kona coffee is world-class.
Lion Coffee - Honolulu
Lion feels urban and laid-back, with a polished new seating area and welcoming staff. Their coffee is smooth, consistently strong, and often paired with a slice of banana bread that’s faintly sweet. They also package their beans for purchase so you can take the taste of Honolulu home. Great for both a quick caffeine fix and a chill hour of indulgence.
Cafe Villamor
This tiny gem caters to coffee lovers who value conversation as much as caffeine. Salted macadamia iced mochas and açaí bowls shine, and the banana bread is moist with fruit and nuts. Staff are helpful without hovering, and the vibe is quietly upbeat. It’s the kind of neighborhood you find yourself coming back to again and again.
Mirage Art & Coffee
Mirage is equal parts Mediterranean coffee shop and community hub, complete with baklava, Turkish coffee, and an artsy atmosphere. Found in Kaimuki, it’s a sweet underground space that hosts paint parties and open mics. The owner’s personality fills the room, and the desert-themed décor makes every sip feel like a mini adventure.
4.5
of 5.0
(727)
Morning Glass Coffee
Cozy meets creative at Morning Glass, where pastries, lattes, and breakfast sandwiches (including mac and cheese pancake!) give you all the warm fuzzies. A small indoor nook and attentive staff make mornings feel easy-going. Whether it rains or shines, their flat white and friendly vibe is enough reason to linger.
Try Coffee - Honolulu
Try Coffee doubles as a café and study space with plenty of light, fast service, and thoughtful drinks like Ethiopian lattes and matcha. The inside-outside layout keeps things breezy, and weekend co-working vibes make it feel friendly even solo. If you want a steady cup and a working spot, this one blends both worlds well.
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All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
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