If you talk to anyone who knows me, among the first few things that come to mind is that I certainly love coffee! The smell is absolute, distinctive and will undoubtedly bring a smile to my face. I have been to quite a few Cafe’s on Oahu (as I do have a goal to visit all that I can find) but these Cafe’s I’m about to talk about are worth talking about.
Prominently displayed at the International Market Place, this Cafe faces Kuhio Avenue and is easily spotted from the street. As you approach the entrance, a pleasant aroma is your first hint of a wonderful environment. The interior is a rich visual of nice wood and copper tones. A fantastic array of pastries is on display with a friendly staff that will gladly help with any decision making. One pastry worth mentioning is the award winning Kouign Amann – a caramelized croissant with a sweet nectar at the center. Simply unforgettable.
My coffee of choice is a Cappuccino with honey. Excellent taste & texture as well as visually pleasing.
This Cafe is open Monday – Sunday 6am – 10pm. Parking can be found just down the street from the Cafe at the International Market Place parking garage. Defiantly get your parking ticket Validated while you make a purchase at the Cafe. The parking price is $3 for 30 minutes – but spend $10 at the International Market Place and receive the first hour free and $2 for every hour after (after the fourth hour, standard rates apply). So parking Validation is certainly worth it. You can also shop them online.
Located on Monsarrat Ave in the Diamond Head area of Honolulu resides ARS Cafe. A small, relaxing place featuring a great selection of local beans, homemade gelato and featured local artists.
They have a free event on the first of every month from 6pm – 9pm welcoming the latest featured artist. If I’m not enjoying some gelato then I will get a simple drip cup of coffee with honey. I recently had a nice macchiato in a pleasant stone mug. Another draw here is relaxing to music produced by a McIntosh tube amp, as I am certainly a fan .
Parking can be a bit tricky. Street parking in front of the cafe is limited but I usually park in the neighborhood near by as well as across the street. Some of the simple things in life are the best.
This well known coffee shop is located on the corner of Kapiolani Blvd and Kalakau Ave near the Hawai’i Convention Center. They feature high quality local beans as well as an excellent bakery. On my last visit I had a Latte with honey – highly recommended. Would you like to have the ultimate coffee experience? Book a tour with them here.
They also offer public cupping sessions every Thursday at 1pm -call ahead to make a reservation (808)-202-2562. Parking is easily available behind the cafe. Beans and merchandise can also be purchased online.
As I continue to explore more coffee shops here on Oahu, my list of favorites will most certainly grow. Adventure is always right around the corner!