Nature, native custom, and Hawai’ian-grown espresso collide at these 4 noteworthy retailers.
BY MICHAELA TOMCHEK
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Photographs 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 world wide to trendy espresso bars specializing in Hawai’i-grown varieties, every espresso store tells its personal story of the island’s historical past and group. This information highlights a few of the better of O’ahu’s espresso tradition—the place to search out the proper 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 type 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 house 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 smooth golden lights illuminating wood-paneled partitions.
The espresso is as stunning 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 vigorous neighborhood of Kaimuki—identified 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 path of householders Ross Uehara-Tilton and his husband, Devin. As considered one of Hawai’i’s few multi-roaster cafés, The Curb brings international 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 glossy terrazzo counter tops, The Curb provides a serene house to get pleasure from a pourover, espresso, or a inventive seasonal drink. In addition they serve gentle bites, together with granola, pastries, and quiche. Within the evenings, The Curb transforms right into a pure wine bar, typically internet hosting music and group occasions.
“Hawai’i’s espresso scene is small, tight-knit, and community-driven—not aggressive,” Ross instructed 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
If you happen to’re staying in Waikiki and craving nice espresso, comply with the morning crowd to Kona Espresso Purveyors. Based in 2008 by Raymond Suiter, after promoting his earlier enterprise, Honolulu Espresso Firm, this roastery focuses completely 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 intense, bustling café is understood not just for its beautiful espresso but additionally for its partnership with B. Patisserie, the James Beard Award–successful bakery from San Francisco, Calif. Locals and guests alike line up early for pineapple croissants, kouign-amann, and different delights, finest 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 smooth mist. After a morning surf or whale-watching journey, this cozy café is the proper place to recharge.
For over a decade, Morning Glass has perfected its steadiness of nice espresso and comforting meals. They serve beans from each Massive Island Roasters and Portland’s Coava Espresso, alongside a menu of pastries, sandwiches, omelets, and oatmeal. Seize an iced espresso, discover a seat open air, 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 vital 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 stunning drinks. At present, she writes about espresso, hoping to unfold her pleasure throughout the globe.
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