Drive Thru Joe

A small, veteran-owned handcrafted coffee cart on each major base on the island? I'm in!I've been a fan of Drive Thru Joe since my cousin introduced me back when DTJ was only operating at Schofield Barracks in front of the Commissary. It's rare to see a local coffee business at a base. They're usually filled with the same old chains or MWR-operated spots. This location is right next to the Holomoku NEX Mini Mart on Pearl Harbor, towards sub side and all the barracks buildings. The staff here are as nice as the workers at the Schofield Commissary location! I've been so used to local coffee shops off-base, catering to the local civilian community that I get thrown off by the huge Red Bull and signature drink menu offerings. They're clearly for the customer on the go. If you're a fan of any Red Bull concoction or signature drink loaded with flavors and syrups, this place is for you. I guess I just gotta be mindful on how I order the flavored drinks by cutting sweetness levels to please my Asian palate and to be able to taste the coffee lol. To keep it simple, I'll try to venture out to their Americanos or Cold Brews. My default favorite drink is a good vanilla latte, so I should try that out instead of their signature drinks. They have a rewards program for a free drink after 13 visits and they brew coffee from Kailua Town Coffee Roasters! DTJ updates their Instagram and website frequently, so be sure to check out their ever changing seasonal menus!

So good... sad that I only got one. Another day I guess! Nestled in the corner of the mini mart. Near the barracks, they have a holiday menu too! Not sure when that is up but definitely recommend! Curious on their other flavors

Coffee is always delicious and strong. I wish they were open for a longer period of time but the coffee taste makes up for it. Service is good always and they are willing to answer your questions or make suggestions.

This little hut is a hidden gem on Pearl Harbor. Located between the Subway and the NEX Shoppette near Makalapa. The staff is AMAZING. They always help walk me through a new drink and take the extra time to make sure it's made exactly to order. The Cold Brew is a must try if you like iced coffee. They are also always doing fun Redbull infusions for those who need the caffeine but don't feel like coffee. They also serve egg bites for those who want a quick grab n go and don't want to wait in the McDonalds line. The shop is veteran owned and operated and employees are all dependents. Support your local small business and your military community!

So far I've gotten the Hawaii Tropic and the mele Kalikimaka. Both were perfect and the girls make the drinks super fast and are always friendly. My go to café on the way to the boat. The only thing I will say is they have limited hours which is too bad when I want an iced coffee in the afternoon or weekend. But parking is never a problem and the quality is always consistent! :)

Drive Thru Joe's opens at 5:30 am on weekdays (fall 2023). Everyone is really nice and friendly and always helpful if you don't know what kind of drink you want to get. I always order the mocha because hands down, it's one of the best tasting I've had compared to Starbucks and Coffee Bean. I also get the Reveille Upgrade - it's an everything bagel with an egg, cheese and bacon (that's the upgrade part) and it never misses! It's outside the mini mart between makalapa and halawa gate in Pearl Harbor. There are tables and benches to sit on in case you want to enjoy your morning breakfast.

This place is always a hit. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. They make great recommendations. Their lattes are delicious! The bagels are my husband's favorite and they also have little treats for the kids. The great setup is a plus, too!

Super friendly staff, quick service, great recommendations. I tried the iced Samocha latte and omg it's so good. I also got the reveille breakfast sandwich for half off (I ordered around 1030). The total came out to like $9! There are a few tables outside and some music so it has nice vibes. Overall, LOVE!!

Amazing coffee and service!! Genuinely the best on the island. Same price as something like Starbucks and significantly better.