Nature, native custom, and Hawai’ian-grown espresso collide at these 4 noteworthy retailers.
BY MICHAELA TOMCHEK
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Images courtesy of Michaela Tomchek
O’ahu’s espresso scene captures the island’s distinctive mix of laid-back surf tradition and deep-rooted native custom. From hidden neighborhood spots serving beans from around the globe to trendy espresso bars specializing in Hawai’i-grown varieties, every espresso store tells its personal story of the island’s historical past and neighborhood. This information highlights a number of the better of O’ahu’s espresso tradition—the place to search out the right cup, the friendliest baristas, and essentially the most scenic spots to linger with a latte. Whether or not you’re a caffeine purist or an informal sipper, O’ahu provides a brew for each form of espresso lover.
ARS Café
Honolulu, O’ahu’s bustling capital, brims with tradition, delicacies, and creativity—and nestled alongside the slopes of Diamond Head sits the beautiful ARS Café. With its mahogany wooden exterior, hand-painted gold signage, and heat glow, ARS looks like stepping again in time. Opened in 2016, the area doubles as an artwork gallery, showcasing native artists in a serene, white-walled annex. Inside, each element is intentional: wood counter tops modeled after English pubs, hand-lettered indicators, and mushy golden lights illuminating wood-paneled partitions.
The espresso is as lovely because the setting. You’ll discover rigorously crafted seasonal drinks, basic espresso, and filter choices, together with Kona espresso served in classic mugs. Pair your cup with a sandwich, toast, or their well-known handmade gelato.
The Curb
Within the energetic neighborhood of Kaimuki—recognized for its diners, bento retailers, and indie shops—sits The Curb, a standout for espresso lovers. Although the model’s roots hint again to the College of Hawai’i, the present location opened in 2021 beneath the route of homeowners Ross Uehara-Tilton and his husband, Devin. As one in all Hawai’i’s few multi-roaster cafés, The Curb brings world specialty espresso to the islands, that includes roasters similar to Olympia, Onyx, Black & White, Coronary heart, Sorellina, and Proud Mary.
Bathed in daylight from giant entrance home windows and anchored by modern terrazzo counter tops, The Curb provides a serene area to take pleasure in a pourover, espresso, or a artistic seasonal drink. Additionally they serve gentle bites, together with granola, pastries, and quiche. Within the evenings, The Curb transforms right into a pure wine bar, usually internet hosting music and neighborhood occasions.
“Hawai’i’s espresso scene is small, tight-knit, and community-driven—not aggressive,” Ross informed Barista Journal. The Curb embodies that spirit, introducing locals and vacationers alike to the world past Kona whereas celebrating Hawai’i-grown espresso in all its nuance.
Kona Espresso Purveyors
For those who’re staying in Waikiki and craving nice espresso, observe the morning crowd to Kona Espresso Purveyors. Based in 2008 by Raymond Suiter, after promoting his earlier enterprise, Honolulu Espresso Firm, this roastery focuses solely on Hawai’i-grown beans. Working alongside meals scientist Jackie Suiter, Raymond has elevated the craft of native espresso, roasting with precision and care.
The brilliant, bustling café is thought not just for its beautiful espresso but in addition for its partnership with B. Patisserie, the James Beard Award–profitable bakery from San Francisco, Calif. Locals and guests alike line up early for pineapple croissants, kouign-amann, and different delights, greatest loved with a chilly brew because the Waikiki solar rises.
Morning Glass Espresso
Tucked into the plush valley of Manoa, Morning Glass Espresso is a neighborhood favourite: a peaceable spot surrounded by emerald mountains and mushy mist. After a morning surf or whale-watching journey, this cozy café is the right place to recharge.
For over a decade, Morning Glass has perfected its steadiness of nice espresso and comforting meals. They serve beans from each Large Island Roasters and Portland’s Coava Espresso, alongside a menu of pastries, sandwiches, omelets, and oatmeal. Seize an iced espresso, discover a seat outdoor, and take within the view for a second of quiet magnificence within the coronary heart of O’ahu.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michaela Tomchek finds espresso an necessary a part of life and the world. She is an appreciator of the crop, the producer, and the various cafés all through the world serving lovely drinks. At the moment, she writes about espresso, hoping to unfold her pleasure throughout the globe.
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