4 Cool Cafés on the Island of O'ahu

Nature, local tradition, and Hawai’i-grown coffee collide at these four noteworthy shops.

BY MICHAELA TOMCHEK
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE

Photos courtesy of Michaela Tomchek

O’ahu’s coffee scene captures the island’s unique blend of laid-back surf culture and deep-rooted local tradition. From hidden neighborhood spots serving beans from around the world to modern coffee bars specializing in Hawai’i-grown varieties, each coffee shop tells its own story of the island’s history and community. This guide highlights the best of O’ahu’s coffee culture—where to find the perfect cup, the friendliest baristas, and the most scenic spots to linger with a latte. Whether you’re a caffeine purist or a casual sipper, O’ahu offers a brew for every kind of coffee lover.

ARS Café

Honolulu, O’ahu’s bustling capital, brims with culture, cuisine, and creativity—and nestled along the slopes of Diamond Head sits the exquisite ARS Café. With its mahogany wood exterior, hand-painted gold signage, and warm glow, ARS feels like stepping back in time. Opened in 2016, the space doubles as an art gallery, showcasing local artists in a serene, white-walled annex. Inside, every detail is intentional: wooden countertops modeled after English pubs, hand-lettered signs, and soft golden lights illuminating wood-paneled walls.

The coffee is as beautiful as the setting. You’ll find carefully crafted seasonal drinks, classic espresso, and filter options, including Kona coffee served in vintage mugs. Pair your cup with a sandwich, toast, or their famous handmade gelato.

The Curb

In the lively neighborhood of Kaimuki—known for its diners, bento shops, and indie stores—sits The Curb, a standout for coffee lovers. Though the brand’s roots trace back to the University of Hawai’i, the current location opened in 2021 under the direction of owners Ross Uehara-Tilton and his husband, Devin. As one of Hawai’i’s few multi-roaster cafés, The Curb brings global specialty coffee to the islands, featuring roasters such as Olympia, Onyx, Black & White, Heart, Sorellina, and Proud Mary.

Bathed in sunlight from large front windows and anchored by sleek terrazzo countertops, The Curb offers a serene space to enjoy a pourover, espresso, or a creative seasonal drink. They also serve light bites, including granola, pastries, and quiche. In the evenings, The Curb transforms into a natural wine bar, often hosting music and community events.

“Hawai’i’s coffee scene is small, tight-knit, and community-driven—not competitive,” Ross told Barista Magazine. The Curb embodies that spirit, introducing locals and travelers alike to the world beyond Kona while celebrating Hawai’i-grown coffee in all its nuance.

Kona Coffee Purveyors

If you’re staying in Waikiki and craving great coffee, follow the morning crowd to Kona Coffee Purveyors. Founded in 2008 by Raymond Suiter, after selling his previous venture, Honolulu Coffee Company, this roastery focuses exclusively on Hawai’i-grown beans. Working alongside food scientist Jackie Suiter, Raymond has elevated the craft of local coffee, roasting with precision and care.

The bright, bustling café is known not only for its exquisite coffee but also for its partnership with B. Patisserie, the James Beard Award–winning bakery from San Francisco, Calif. Locals and visitors alike line up early for pineapple croissants, kouign-amann, and other delights, best enjoyed with a cold brew as the Waikiki sun rises.

Morning Glass Coffee

Tucked into the lush valley of Manoa, Morning Glass Coffee is a local favorite: a peaceful spot surrounded by emerald mountains and soft mist. After a morning surf or whale-watching trip, this cozy café is the perfect place to recharge.

For over a decade, Morning Glass has perfected its balance of great coffee and comforting food. They serve beans from both Big Island Roasters and Portland’s Coava Coffee, alongside a menu of pastries, sandwiches, omelets, and oatmeal. Grab an iced coffee, find a seat outdoors, and take in the view for a moment of quiet beauty in the heart of O’ahu.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michaela Tomchek finds coffee an important part of life and the world. She is an appreciator of the crop, the producer, and the many cafés throughout the world serving beautiful beverages. Currently, she writes about coffee, hoping to spread her joy across the globe. 

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