Coffee to Cocktails in O’ahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular domestic destinations for Americans. In fact, one out of four domestic tourists choose to visit the island of O’ahu or Honolulu each year.

Home to some of the best beaches and reefs in the United States, many Hawaiian cafes and restaurants are also leading the way in sustainability. If you’re heading to Paradise this summer, say Aloha to these eco-friendly eats and drinks.

Coffee - Ali’i Coffee Co.

Start your vacation at this sustainable roastery cafe in Downtown Honolulu. Previously a local farmer’s market favourite, Ali’i Coffee Co opened their first store in 2018 with sustainability in mind. Tables and stools are made from reclaimed and upcycled wood and they’ll give customers a small discount if they bring their own reusable mugs and straws. Don’t leave without trying one of their highly Instagrammable taro ube drinks.

Photocredit: @aliicoffeeco

Brunch - Moke’s Bread and Breakfast

Make your way to one of Honolulu’s famed brunch institutions to taste the best pancakes on the island - and possibly the country! Their Liliko’i Pancakes (pancakes topped with passionfruit sauce) put them on the foodie map, but their Kualoa Loco Moco is farm-to-table at its finest. Made using locally farmed organic eggs and grass fed beef from a local ranch, every ingredient is accounted for and can be easily traced back to a Hawaiian farm. For a boozy brunch, bring your own bottle of Champagne to make your own mimosas.

Photocredit: @tonggpartners

Lunch - Kahuku Farm Café

A family run operation, the Matsuda and Fukuyama families have worked on the farm for over three generations. They more recently added a small roadside café that’s proved to be popular with both locals and tourists alike. All of their dishes are made from crops grown right on the farm and fresh produce (from exotic dragonfruit and acai to staples like eggplants and bananas) is available for purchase. If you have the time, go on their tractor-ride farm tour to discover the different fruits and vegetables Hawaii has to offer.

Photocredit: @dolkii

Afternoon Snack - Sunrise Shack

The iconic bright yellow Sunrise Shack has made its way to Waikiki and it’s serving up the same Insta-friendly açaí bowls and smoothies as its older North Shore sibling. The same eco-friendly ethos is present too, with local and organic fruits and vegetables used where and when possible. And if you forget to pack your reusable straw, you can purchase a cute bamboo one here.

Photocredit: @sunriseshack

Dinner - Merriman’s

Chef Peter Merriman is a pioneers in the farm-to-table movement. In fact, he’s known as the original ‘locavore’. His menu reflects the best of Hawaii’s farms, ranches and seas with emphasis on native ingredients, ethically-raised pork and locally caught seafood. Expect a fun fine dining experience with a sustainability mindset - think Kalua pig quesadillas, organic taro enchiladas and Keahole lobster pot pie.

Photocredit: Yelp

Drinks - Hideout at The Laylow

Cap off your evening with drinks at one of Waikiki’s hottest rooftop bars. Take in the view as you sip on Hawaiian-style Mai Tais or rosé sangria. For something different, try the “Low Rida” a tequila-based drink that comes with a tamarind candy. If you’re feeling peckish, they also serve innovative modern Hapa Hawaiian small bites made from local ingredients (when available). The Guacamame Dip (edamame-based guacamole) is a standout.

Photocredit: @hideoutwaikiki