Why Kona Coffee Roasters Is One of NYC’s Most Thoughtful Cafes

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TLDR

Somewhere between the steady pace of New York streets and the quiet strength of Hawaiian soil, Kona Coffee Roasters has found its lane. What began in 2017 as a small East Village café has grown into three locations across the city, each one shaped by the same focus on quality, consistency, and a calm approach to coffee.

For founder Tae Kim, the goal has always been straightforward. Let the coffee speak for itself, stay close to the source, and offer people a place to slow down without stepping away from the city.

From Hawaii’s Volcanic Slopes to NYC’s Coffee Scene

Kona coffee is rare. Grown in a narrow belt of land on the Big Island, it develops slowly in rich volcanic soil under soft afternoon clouds. It’s one of the most distinct coffee profiles in the world, and also one of the hardest to replicate.

At Kona Coffee Roasters, the beans don’t just show up. Tae and his team have spent years building relationships with Hawaiian farmers to find the right fit—partners who understand the values behind each harvest. Every batch is picked, sorted, and shipped fresh from Hawaii, then roasted in-house in New York to preserve its unique depth and aroma.

From the Kona Peaberry to the Kona Reserve, these beans speak for themselves. The roasting is clean and confident, bringing out the natural sweetness and balance that Kona coffee is known for. Their House Blend, which pairs Kona with other premium beans, adds an approachable everyday option while still delivering signature quality.

A Coffee Shop With Intention and Energy

Each of Kona Coffee Roasters' three locations reflects the same spirit. Clean, open spaces. Indoor and outdoor seating. A relaxed atmosphere that brings a little island ease to the city. The café encourages people to take a breath, whether they’re starting their morning or pausing between meetings.

But that doesn’t mean things are quiet. Regular latte art throwdowns, pop-up coffee parties, and local events keep the spaces lively. Soon, Kona will also roll out a house bakery to pair its roasts with fresh pastries and desserts made on-site. It’s a natural extension of the same attention to flavor and balance that defines their coffee.