If there’s one beverage Hawaii is known for, it’s coffee. After all, Hawaii is the only American state with land that is able to grow the beloved berries. And while we love Hawaii Island’s famous Kona Coffee as much as the next person, we’re pretty enamored with the coffee shops in Hawaii that you’ll find scattered throughout the state's other main islands, especially this one. Nestled in the heart of Honolulu, Ali’i Coffee has won accolades not only for its java, but for its food, as well. Ready to learn all about what makes this unassuming gem so remarkable? Let's find out!
The annual Yelp Top 100 list doesn’t necessarily highlight the restaurants with the most five-star reviews but, instead, honors eateries across the United States that rank so highly that they’ve earned the status of "must try." And within its first couple years of business, Ali'i Coffee made this list - not for its coffee, but for its food.
So, you "must try" this Hawaiian coffee shop as soon as you have the chance!
Nestled in the heart of Honolulu’s Chinatown, near Hawaii Pacific University, you might walk right on past Ali’i Coffee's main location if you didn’t know about it.
There’s no dedicated parking, no gimmicks, and hardly any foot traffic outside its doors, but if you step inside, you’ll be treated to a cup of Joe unlike any other.
The coffee served here is a cut above the rest, and you’re sure to agree after just one sip.
From the shop's popular nitro cold brew infused with nitrogen gas to its handcrafted "coff-tails," there’s something for everyone to like here.
Does cold-brew coffee and lavender sound as heavenly to you as it does to us?
What about the honey and ginger variety, affectionately named "The Red Head, " or the "Ono Coconut," which is made with cold-brew coffee, coconut milk, muddled pineapple, and a hint of macadamia nut syrup? Talk about delicious!
But wait, Yelp named Ali’i Coffee as one of the best places to eat, right? Of course, it has a stellar food menu.
Choose from half a dozen sandwiches, a few salads, and the obligatory avocado toast; or try one of the flatbreads. This prosciutto and pear flatbread, topped with onions, mixed greens, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, is to die for.
And while the coffee - as well as the food - is certainly top-notch, its ambiance makes Ali’i Coffee truly stand out in the crowd.
The light and airy shop is warm and inviting, the tables and stools are all made with reclaimed or upcycled wood, and the revolving artwork showcased on the walls supports Oahu’s art scene.
So, what are you waiting for?
Whether you’re looking for a place to stop for your morning caffeine fix, hoping to meet up with friends, or if you just want to enjoy a good book by yourself on a day off, Ali’i Coffee is an absolute must-visit for any island coffee lover.
Ali'i Coffee also has locations in Ward Village and Waikiki. Visit Ali’i Coffee's website for more about the shops' hours and food offerings. For additional information, check out the coffee shops' Facebook page.
For a fantastic cup of coffee on the other side of Oahu, head to this one-of-a-kind chocolate and coffee farm or check out these other unique coffee shops in Hawaii.
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