Mouthwatering Coffee & Tea in Honolulu

Morning Glass Coffee + Café

★★★★☆ 4.1 (915) • $$

"I'm so glad I found this place. Located in Manoa, it's a great little spot for your morning caffeine and breakfast. There's some parking in the lot or some street parking out front. There was a decent line of maybe 10 ppl ahead of me but it moved fairly quickly and all the staff were great. There is a small corner counter with 4 stools but the rest of the seating is outside under their enclosed patio or the tables in the front parking lot. I snagged a counter spot inside after I placed my order. I didn't mind the long line because it gave me an opportunity to consider all the amazing food and drink options. I landed on a hot matcha latte with macadamia nut milk and Manoa honey. A beautiful cup of sweet and nutty goodness to start my day. I also got the strata (a really savory bread pudding with bacon, roasted shallots, garlic and aged cheddar). I should preface by saying I'm usually not a big fan of bread pudding, but if all bread puddings tasted like this, I would get it every time! It was divinely delicious. I also took a lilikoi honey butter biscuit to go. I usually like to add butter or honey to my biscuits so this biscuit was made for me! And who doesn't like passionfruit?"

Local Joe

★★★★★ 4.7 (584) • $$

"Everything that sell at Local Joe are extremely good quality! Coffee and breakfast are tasty... Highly recommended..."

Coffee or Tea?

★★★★☆ 3.6 (825) • $$

"Had the frozen coffee frappe. It was good. My friend had some boba . This lady is fast ! In a couple of minutes she made four drinks. My friend paid I took some pictures and the drinks were done."

Ani's Bake Shop

★★★★★ 4.6 (439) • $$

"Great onolicious sweets! Love their malasadas, lilikoi bars, long Johns, etc., etc., TOO MANY to list!The first, but definitely not the last... I had their Pumpkin Crunch Pie... yums!!!!!!!"

9Bar HNL

★★★★★ 4.5 (452) • $

"9BarHNL is a cool coffee shop that serves up quality espresso and is known for their unique baked good. Located at SALT in Kakaako- there's free 1 hour parking in the SALT garage and I believe that they will validate if you plan on staying in. You can find people with their laptops doing work or even enjoying their morning cup of coffee with their furry friends. It can get a bit crowded, but if there isn't any room to sit inside, there's plenty of outdoor seating around SALT. I ordered an iced black sesame latte which normally comes without coffee, but I added a double shot of espresso to it. The black sesame has a rich nutty flavor that is also a bit sweet- balancing out the espresso. I also ordered one of their scuffins, their scone a muffin hybrid. I got their ensaymada scuffin-- I hadn't heard of ensaymada before but they had me at "whipped butter and sugar". So, it's a savory scuffin topped with a whipped butter and sugar icing. It's savory and sweet and reminded me of a scone at high tea with whipped butter! I came into 9Bar for a pick-me-up after an unfortunate miscommunication had me in the area a day earlier than I needed to be. But seriously, all the animosity and stress from my morning melted away the moment I walked in and got such a genuine welcome with eye contact and a "good morning" from the barista. Let this be a testament that you never know what a person is going through and the simplest of kind gestures can really go a long way. I enjoyed the latte and scuffin, but I'm coming back solely based on that welcoming feeling I got when I first walked in."

Spero Spera

★★★★★ 4.5 (443) • $$

"I woke up this morning craving a good sandwich. Trolled Yelp for the best sandwich shop on the island. After much searching, I found this hidden Gem. I decided to order the Mixed Avocado $12.42. The sandwich came with a bag of chips that went well with the Sandwich. The sandwich was made with care and thought. Everything was paired perfectly. I mean the shredded carrots and cabbage provided the sweetness to the salted ham and bacon. I also ordered the Bacon Salami $12.42, but this time opted to pair this sandwich with the organic side salad. The salad was complimented with a balsamic vinegar dressing. The sandwich is served on a French roll. The sandwich was served warm seeing the mozzarella needed to be melted. This would be my go to when on a run. The establishment decor provides a warm place to study, read or just to escape the town hustle and bustle. Establishment is rather large place that has two areas to sit and enjoy. Bottom floor can host 14 people and their upstairs can host another 20 people. They have soft jazz music in the background that topped everything off. This place isn't just a sandwich shop, it also serves a rather large selection of caffeine and teas (I'll be back to review). In closing: Whether you're in search for some coffee or a quick bite, I recommend you try Spera Spera if you are in the Honolulu town area. Until next time, eat till your heart is content."

Mr Tea Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.1 (496) • $$

"The uji matcha latte with oat milk is really good. First time I've seen uji matcha in a latte form. I got 25% sweet with boba and it was perfect and even sweetness for me. The staff were also friendly and helpful. There are games and books on the wall that you can use when you're at the cafe. Would come again to try other drinks!"

Mr. Donut's & Bakery

★★★★★ 4.6 (385) • $

"By far a great place for donuts and pastries. The owner is terrific and friendly. Always a "hello" and greeting. Convenient right next to bus stops. During the week he has a good selection and on Saturday morning it is just nice to grab a few donuts. Very relaxed atmosphere and easy to find. Support your local businesses. I recommend the apple fritter it is almost a whole meal!"

Jewel or Juice

★★★★★ 4.5 (398) • $$

"Yummmy! Try the chocolate Haupia, it's spot on with a slice of Ted's. Also tried the li hing. Super refreshing and sweet. Would definitely come back again."

Le Crepe Cafe Manoa Marketplace

★★★★★ 4.5 (389) • $$

"Updated menu. Still have all the good stuff, they added on a few new items. Lots of other drink flavors are available at the location but not listed in the menu :)"

Morning Brew - Kaka'ako

★★★★☆ 3.9 (490) • $$

"We were looking for a place to sit and hang out for a bit and needed some table space to take care of some work. We decided on Morning Brew as I wanted to try something new. We walked in and was greeted by a bright and lively coffee shop bustling with people. There are two levels with a number of tables available and more seating upstairs. They had really delicious looking line-up of fresh baked goods and a fairly wide and varied menu of beverages and food. From sandwiches and toasts, to bowls and sweet treats, they have a great selection of breakfast and brunch items. As for their coffee, it's all locally roasted and also had a pretty wide selection. From single brew pour overs to beverage specials like a cold brew float, there's something for everyone.As for me, I went with an iced German mocha which apparently combines espresso, chocolate, and other flavors to create a taste similar to German chocolate cake. It was perfect and I enjoyed sipping on it while hanging out in the shop.All in all, Morning Brew is cute and modern and makes for a great space to hangout and catch up with friends. I think it would also be a good spot for breakfast/brunch.It can get a little loud inside with all the patrons and felt pretty warm inside, but it did the job and would recommend a stop here."

Coffee or Tea?

★★★★☆ 4.2 (419) • $$

"The ube float is amazing! Would definitely order again, and the price was not too bad considering you get scoops of ube ice cream in the drink. Lots of drink options on the menu in this small shop with limited seating. Service was nice. Big shared private parking lot with other businesses in the strip mall. Located makai of Pearlridge."

Fig & Ginger Honolulu

★★★★☆ 4.3 (398) • $$

"Always wanted to try out this brunch place since all the food looked so aesthetically pleasing! Walked in for 4 adults and a toddler and was able to get a table within 10 mins.I got the Roasted Chicken sandwich, my husband got the Steak Melt, and my daughter got the Big Breakie. - Roasted Chicken sandwich: The chicken was dry and didn't have any seasoning on it. The only thing that made it better was the eggplant caponata. I had to ask for tapatio to make it have a little more flavor. Fries were okay, not that crispy. - Steak Melt: Okay. The mushroom and the onions made it taste better, but again, no seasoning on the steak. - Big Breakie: Daughter loved the bacon and potatoes. I thought the bacon could've been cooked more. Sourdough bread was hard so she couldn't eat that and the eggs were a bit runny but very vibrant in color. Friend got the corn fritter and she said it had no seasoning either. Overall kinda disappointing. Expected more because all the food looked so aesthetic but most of them didn't have seasoning or flavor at all."

Bluetree Cafe - Honolulu

★★★★☆ 4.1 (426) • $$

""There's a proverb that goes, 'Sometimes, the wrong train takes you to the right station.'" - K-Drama I go way back with Bluetree Cafe and the Aoki brothers. In fact, many moons ago I had a small party here and so coming back here years later brought back fond memories. My bestie, Kyra K., needed to do some remote work, and since we were in the area, I suggested Bluetree Cafe since she never tried it. Bestie agreed and since it was a Sunday morning it allowed us to park directly on Kapiolani Blvd. Sadly, the parking was probably the best part of this visit as to be perfectly honest the Bluetree Cafe vibe I'm used to just wasn't there... I'm not saying have Steve Aoki DJ his EDM Jams, I'm just saying it was an odd visit lol. Bluetree Cafe is still a very cool place to visit and be seen. Lots of areas to work, study, or just chill. Inside or outside tables. Counter space and just a very artsy twist for Coffee Shop. The odd part started when we noticed only one employee being the Cashier, Barista, and Server too. Maybe two others before us, so we thought hmm can't be that bad, right? Wrong.Back to ordering: I chose the Ube Latté and Bestie chose the Latté Flight. And we waited. And we waited lol. Lucky in a way that Bestie had lots of remote work or we'd be gossiping about others like Gossip Girl! The decor is another IG worthy photo op as it's quite eclectic with lots of wood, dial telephones, bicycles, and even a vintage Vespa parked near the restrooms! Indoor and outdoor seating and lots of area to work, play, or just chill. Outside is a great area if sunny. And we wait. *sigh* The wait was probably 15-20 minutes which is eternity for just coffee, but finally the drinks are ready and brought to our table. The presentation was nice, the Ube Latté in a nice glass jar, and the Latté Flight of Earth Matcha, Sky Latté, and Ube Latté (Soy) displayed on a wooden tray. Long story short the taste did not match the visuals lol. It was definitely not worth the wait. Dare I say... like dirt. In the end, I'm sad to say I'm no longer a fan of Bluetree Café. I honestly don't know why it went off the train tracks from years ago. Don't believe me? Read the earlier reviews of constant 4-5 stars. The cafe being understaffed, the long wait unacceptable, and even some of the drinks being "earthy"... almost a nicer way of saying taste like "dirt". Still kudos to the lone Barista who managed to survive the morning.I'm a member of the VIP Aoki Rewards program and loyal to several of it's restaurants. Bluetree Café is at the lower end of totem pole. 3-stars for the memories."

IL Gelato Cafe Haleiwa

★★★★☆ 4.3 (357) • $$

"The shop is just so cute and the ice cream was just amazing. The worst part was trying to decide which flavor to pick! Classics and local favorites means there is something for everyone."

Kulu Kulu

★★★★☆ 4.3 (350) • $$

"We wanted a sweet treat after a terrible dinner experience at Yama udon. We got the cream puff and the rainbow cake. It was delicious! The cream puff was just the right amount to sweet and creamy. The filling was filled perfectly, not too little and not too crazy. The pastry part was fresh and flaky.The rainbow cake was moist and tasty. It even looked great. The layers were small and cool looking. As you know, pastry should look good to the eye as it's part of the experience. I would not hesitate to buy these items from this bakery. I will be back again for sure!"

Maleko Coffee And Pastries

★★★★★ 4.5 (303) • $

"Best donuts! Auntie glory and auntie grace bake all of the items with love! Whatever they're getting paid- double that! You can't beat their baking!"

Kakaako Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.1 (359) • $$

"Name and management has changed. What used to be known as Cafe Grace is now Kaka'ako Cafe.Like the changes to extend hours now into the evening. Like that you can get a cup of coffee by day or a glass of wine by nite. Absolutely love the changes and additions to the menu; like the soups offered at lunch.Do miss the bagels from Lox of Bagels (that happened a few years ago) tho. Hope they bring those back, along with the cute bagel puffs.A nice and comfy home away from home space. A great place in the neighborhood!"

Hamada General Store

★★★★☆ 4.4 (306) • $$

"Daily specials are freakin of the hook this year again ... the dynamite crab poke bowl OMG yum ‍I will be back again soon Soo delicious!!!"

Cloud Nine Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.3 (296) • $$

"This is my favorite place for soufflé pancakes! (I think they make the best ones.) This time I had the #6 Strawberry Cream, and the cream tasted like fresh ripe strawberries! Their soufflé pancakes and cream are perfectly balanced: light fluffy pancakes that still have substance or body to them, and flavorful light cream that isn't too sweet. And they have 8 flavors to choose from; more variety than other places I've seen.Service is always good and the place has a cute upbeat atmosphere."

Cafe Kopi

★★★★☆ 4.4 (275) • $$

"I follow a local artist named @candicedoodles on IG and I saw that she started selling some of her merch at Cafe Kopi. I live near Kailua, so I was surprised to find out that Cafe Kopi is Singaporean owned and has been in Kailua for a number of years. How did I not know about this place??! I kind of jokingly pride myself in being 1/4 Singaporean Chinese. I seek out Singaporean things mostly because I miss traveling to Singapore twice a year with my grandparents. Singapore is nostalgic for me. I decided to come in asap to get a coffee and do some work. It's a nice little coffee shop with about 8 tables and a splattering of chairs. They offer cute pastries and coffee and tea. They also sell artwork from artists like Candicedoodles. I ordered the Teh Tarik with condensed milk. It had a strong tea flavor and I love condense milk, so it was perfect. I was thinking about getting kaya toast, but I didn't see it offered anywhere by the register (like on a menu)...oh well, next time!I will definitely need to come back on a Friday, Sat or Sunday to get Laksa. And I am thinking about making this my go to coffee shop in Kailua."

Thanh French Coffee & Bubble Tea

★★★★★ 4.5 (258) • $

"Starting my next review after #200, I thought I would review a small business that I frequent quite often!! Yes, a lot of businesses including this one in Maunakea Marketplace have been affected due to the pandemic; and now thanks to the recent economic crisis. They may not be open daily, but when they are, please stop by!!These smoothies ranges with a variety of exotic flavors which displays the creativity of Chinatown. Sure, you can get your regular banana, blueberry, or strawberry; BUT if you are feeling adventurous...they have a good assortment of fruits which I suggest you try. Personally, I like to step out of my comfort zone, and get something new: jackfruit, soursop, or even a blend of tropical fruits such as: a pineapple and mango smoothie!! Of course, you cannot go wrong with some boba (tapioca) in there as well!! Some people are not fans, but hey, whatever floats your boat. The wife says: "Really yummy smoothies! Once, they let us know that the taro smoothie would be powdered taro, not real fruit. Love that its fresh and reasonably priced. We tried a few combinations; cashier also suggested a few drinks to us."So not everything is REAL FRUIT, but it doesn't hurt to ask. I support small businesses, and I hope they stay around for a long time. God bless y'all; and I hope to be writing more reviews as both time and my health permits."

85°C Bakery Cafe-Ala Moana

★★★★☆ 4.1 (292) • $$

"We came here for dessert yesterday night after dinner at Liliha Bakery. We shared a mango coconut smoothie $6.35 and a piece of mango brûlée cake slice $4.75.I haven't been here in a while and had forgotten how good this place is. My hubby actually recommended we come here for dessert and I agreed. I'm so glad we came. The mango coconut smoothie was perfect. It was a 10 out of 10, one of the best mangoes smoothies ever. It was smooth, creamy and not too sweet. Of course the slice of mango cake was good as well. If I had to pick one, I'd definitely order the smoothie again."

Tea Home - Kaneohe

★★★★☆ 4.2 (267) • $$

"My favorite boba place on the island! Their boba is consistently a great texture with a sweetness that compliments any drink you get. I always get a milk tea and because the boba is sweet I can get a lower sweetness level which is nice so I can also enjoy the flavor of the tea. If you are wanting a tasty and sweet smoothie I would highly recommend a taro coconut.If you are watching something refreshing but a bit tart I would recommend a kumquat lemonade in either juice or smoothie form."

Sweet Corner Cafe

★★★★★ 4.9 (177) • $$

"Ate here recently and thoroughly enjoyed the food and the staff. I ordered the orange chicken with rice. The orange chicken was some of the best that I have ever had. The rice was a simple white rice, so not too much to say about that. I had 3 dining companions with me with one ordering the chicken and waffles, the other two having the house fried gyoza with the noodles. The chicken is two boneless breast pieces that are fried to perfection with a nice bubbly waffle. The gyoza came in chicken and beef again paired with the noodles. The gyoza and noodles were awesome. The cafe has a wide variety of teas that are served in a bag; somewhat hard for me to explain. The cafe is located in an industrial complex and parking may be a little difficult. Once inside the complex, the cafe is down a hallway. Chelsea was the only employee that we dealt with and she is amazing. She is energetic and aims to make the guest as happy and comfortable as possible. Definitely going back."

Teapresso Bar - Keeaumoku

★★★★☆ 4.3 (226) • $$

"Spiling the tea on this location...Love it when you can just drive up right beside the door for some tea, and that's what this location offers considering they're right in the midst of busy Ke'eaumoku in the complex formerly occupied by Like Like as the nostalgic sign still stands proud on the corner of Ke'eaumoku and Kanunu Street and that's where you know you're there just pull in the driveway and it will be on your left.I do love their quite roomy space which it didn't really expect though with all that room they don't have much seating but are happy to have few available, the decor is quite on the simple side having more of their logo cups on the back wall shelves to fill up the space as there's no wall art like you see at other location...though their cups here are quite different from most places as they have that venti cups we're familiar at other competitors, but it's their frosted can glass ware that's stunning on that clearly expresses some Hawaiian vibe with the floral print the other with a surfing bunny which I do love both...wondering how I'd look with a full glass of freshly brewed tea.Speaking of tea it was the usual Pink Dragon Hibiscus that's my current obsession and it has all the yummies of it all with coconut milk and it's sure pretty I must say lol...cheers!Thank you!"

Aloh Health Bar & Cafe

★★★★★ 4.5 (203) • $$

"(+) Waikiki bowlAloh is a cafe that serves the freshest smoothies, açaí bowls and super food items in the heart of Waikiki. I love how they're open late making an acai bowl the perfect dessert. My wife and I come here every time we visit Waikiki just for their acai bowl. Food: the acai bowl comes with granola, fruit and a perfect texture of acai. What makes it perfect is the sorbet texture to their acai. I prefer the icier texture over the smoothie texture. The fruit is super sweet and granola gives it the perfect crunch. Service/ambiance: service is standard and the ladies there are helpful and craft your items so delicately. There are tables inside to sit down at. Overall I recommend aloh for your acai bowl needs. It's one of my wife's favorites here on Oahu. One day we'll build enough courage to order something else on the menu :p"

Infinitea

★★★★☆ 3.6 (316) • $$

"Born and raised on the West Side of Oʻahu, Infinitea is always a must whenever I visit home. Pro tip: Ka Makana Aliʻi is a great spot to grab a meal when you're out on the West Side. Grab a meal out at Moani or Foodland and come on over to Infinitea to cap it all off. My brother and I dropped by on New Year's Day, so shout out to the New Year's Day crew for providing fast, friendly service, especially on a day when a lot of shops were closed to celebrate the holiday. I ordered the Cookie Monster drink with boba and it was its usual fantastic self. Perfect for someone with a sweet tooth. It's not really a sit down spot directly inside as it's really more of an order, grab then go kind of shop. But overall, the energy/ambiance was solid. There's ample seating outside in the food court seating area. Plus, when you're in Hawai'i, boba is best enjoyed outside under the canopy shade as the trade winds cool you off along with the sweet (but not too sweet) boba drink from Infinitea. If you haven't had it yet, you'll be a believer- try the Cookie Monster, Ube Oreo or Matcha Oreo smoothies with boba - or all three and thank me later!"

Teapresso Bar

★★★★☆ 4.3 (218) • $

"I came here with a good friend and she treated me. I got a large lychee green iced twitch boba with 50 percent sugar. This drink was on point and delicious. They also sell Hello kitty stuff like stuffed animals and lens and stationary. Pretty cute. The guys working here were nice. Tables inside to enjoy your drinks.A nail place is attached to the back and to the right of of the place inside. Parking is literally up front. Not too bad for a Saturday afternoon. I would definitely come back to try other flavors.."

Cooke Street Market

★★★★★ 4.6 (186) • $$

"What a cute place to enjoy some great drinks or lunch! We decided to order some drinks and poke bowls to go. By the time we sat down to eat it, we were beyond hungry. The first bite was to die for. So flavorful and fresh! We all enjoyed it and will definitely be back. Service was good. Nothing special but they got the job done. Great ambiance for having lunch with friends too."

Teapresso Bar

★★★★☆ 4.2 (223) • $

"Located on Waialae Avenue, it's easy to get your boba fix when you're in the area. Easy parking in the private lot. They're really quick and very friendly.Strawberry milk with boba and strawberry popping boba"

Forty Niner - Waikiki

★★★★☆ 4.1 (230) • $$

"Stumbled on this hidden gem when looking for a brunch spot and it did not disappoint! They got you covered whether it's sweet or savory - went twice during my visit and enjoyed their signature Loco Moco & Ube Pancakes for sure! Went back again for that Omelette Rice and Lemon Pancakes which were pretty bomb as well, definitely a great spot for a quick and easy mall right at the Island Colony! Check them out in the heart of Downtown Waikiki! Just as great as the OG spot"

Top Tea + Espresso

★★★★★ 4.5 (156) • $

"Located around the corner of Times this unassuming shop is my boyfriend's favorite place to get an iced americano. They offer a variety of drinks and desserts and have a few tables inside where you can sit and enjoy their offerings. We're always greeted with a smile and enjoy their service even if it's brief. On our last visit we got to try their egg tarts, they were freshly baked so we tried our best to let them cool before sinking our teeth in them and they were so yummy. Not too sweet & the crust was light & flaky, just how we like them. They participate in Five Stars so make sure you always put your number in to rack up those rewards!"

QQ Tea House

★★★★★ 4.5 (156) • $$

"A Hidden Gem in Honolulu. If you want some of the best vegan food in Honolulu, award worthy tea, kind customer service (Rosa is AMAZING), and a quaint quiet atmosphere come to QQ tea. I love all of the flavors of green tea and the sweet and sour vegan ribs were INCREDIBLE! Go now don't wait!"

Lunar Tea

★★★★☆ 4.4 (158) • $$

"Twas a hot day, we had just finished thrifting and my kiddo's wanted Boba. We're rarely on this side so I had no idea where a Boba shop might be. Luckily 2 mins away from Savers was the cutest Boba place, probably my second fave on the island now. It also helped that my daughter's name is Luna and the place was called Lunar Tea so she was excited!!The parking lot was pretty packed but we managed to find a spot on Sat afternoon. There were about 7 other people in the shop and my kids managed to find the last 3 seats. This place was so cute! There's a giant moon on the back wall with the cutest sitting area and little moon orb lights. The girl at the counter was nice and answered all my questions. I can be annoying and ask for suggestions because I hate when I try something new and I don't like it. We opted for a mango smoothie, lychee smoothie and taro smoothie all with boba. They were delish and did not disappoint! If you love boba and the moon, this is the place for you! We got a stamp card and you can be sure we'll be back to try the other drinks. My kiddo's gave this place 4 thumbs up!"