Welcome to Kapiolani Coffee Shop
"Kapiolani Coffee Shop, a beloved diner in Aiea, Hawaii, offers a cozy atmosphere and exceptional comfort food. With friendly service and a wide array of delicious dishes, such as garlic fried rice with shrimp, oxtail soup, roast turkey, and pork chops, this restaurant has been a local favorite since 1949. The relaxed vibe and home-cooked meal flair make it a must-visit spot for those seeking a satisfying dining experience. From the old-school ambiance to the mouthwatering oxtail soup, Kapiolani Coffee Shop delivers a taste of home with every bite."
- 98-020 Kamehameha Hwy Aiea, HI 9670198-020 Kamehameha Hwy Aiea, HI 96701 Hotline: (808) 488-7708
Discovering Kapiolani Coffee Shop: A Hidden Gem in Aiea
Nestled in the heart of Aiea, Kapiolani Coffee Shop stands as a beacon for those craving comfort food with a touch of island charm. Located at 98-020 Kamehameha Hwy, this diner-style eatery offers a cozy ambiance complete with booths, communal seating, and an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia. The shop is renowned for its well-crafted dishes that embody the essence of home cooking.
Among the standout offerings is the shop’s famous oxtail soup, a rich and flavorful concoction that keeps diners returning for more. The broth is delightfully infused with hints of citrus and spices, leading to a warm and heartening dining experience. The tender oxtails melt in your mouth, while the peanuts add an intriguing crunch. As Russ L. expressed in his rave review, “the atmosphere here is very clean,” and the respect for tradition shines through each dish.
The menu is a delightful exploration of classic comfort foods that appeal to everyone. From beef curry to succulent pork chops, each plate is prepared with care and attention. Diners rave about the garlic fried rice with shrimp and the unforgettable chicken katsu curry. The Papaya Chicken, praised by Findme I., is another must-try dish that captures the heart and palate.
What truly sets Kapiolani Coffee Shop apart is its inviting service and relaxed vibe. The staff is dedicated to making every visit enjoyable, often likened to 'old school comfort.' They maintain the restaurant’s cleanliness and efficiency, as noted by customers who appreciate the quick turnaround and friendly greetings from the hardworking team.
Open late, Kapiolani Coffee Shop is a perfect stop for anyone needing a hearty meal after a long day. Whether you're in the mood for a late-night plate of fried saimin with kim chee or a classic hamburger steak, there’s something for everyone. Each visit feels like a warm embrace from the past, making it a beloved staple for both locals and visitors alike.
If you're searching for an unforgettable dining experience steeped in local flavor and warmth, Kapiolani Coffee Shop is your answer. Bring your appetite and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more!

Great selection of food. Nice little coffee shop. But the food is always so delicious. The service was great. Food was too good I didn't catch a photo of it. But the garlic fried rice with shrimp, is ono!! Must try.

Ambience is the most relaxed diner style vibe you'll probably find on island, they have booths, chairs, chair and booth combos! The service is prompt, efficienct and respectful. The food is phenomenal. I was halfway into my oxtail before I remembered to write a review! Overall, if you're looking for a diner with home cooked meal flair, absolutely delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend!

EXCELLENT ROAST TURKEY AND PORK CHOPS !!! In the past I've had the oxtail soup, fried rice and the pig's feet soup. Except for the pig's feet soup I liked everything. Service was friendly and efficient.

Old school comfortable eatery. The food is delicious and the restaurant is well kept and clean. The employees are friendly and very hard working. Great service with smile and greeting. Soon as customers satisfied and content with there meal (dining experience) employees are quick to buss the tables and clean the table tops as well as sweep under so the next customer is presented with a freshly cleaned table! The cooks behind the scenes are just as hard working to prepare your orders promptly. Excellent team members! While most restaurants are closing early, Kapiolani is open at least a 1-2 hours later. Working late you still have time to sit down or take out and eat. Oxtail soup and other dishes they are famous for. ONO!!! No forget try the beef, curry and tripe stews. Papaya Chicken is winner! Hit da spot. Oh yeah and breakfast too! Mahaloz

Finally, back at Kapiolani Coffee Shop located in the Waimalu Shopping Plaza, and of course, I had to get the Oxtail Soup XL. Let's just say it didn't disappoint. It is loaded with oxtail, the broth was a bit salty for my liking but it was still delicious. Oxtails were nice and tender and there were peanuts in the broth with a hint of orange or tangerine rinds and a hint of star anise. It also came with four scoops of white rice and the shoyu ginger for dipping. Love the atmosphere here. Very clean place and they also have a takeout counter too. The price for the Extra Large Oxtail Soup was $30.95. It may sound steep but I feel this dish can easily feed two people. Definitely coming back to this iconic coffee shop. Definitely love nostalgia and Kapiolani Coffee Shop has that feel to it. Support Local Businesses.

Just down home local food. I love stew, so needed to order the beef curry. It came with mac salad and rice. Very ono flavor and the meat was tender.

Cyndy's Bottom Line: Enjoy a delicious bowl of oxtail soup "Home of the Famous Oxtail Soup" since 1949. *Walk ins welcomed, no reservations needed *Parking upfront in parking lot *Local beakfast served all day *Daily specials, local breakfast, local favorites, house specialties, noodles, sandwiches The oxtail soup was tasty. The oxtails were falling off the bone and tender. The flavor of the broth was delicious with a generous amount of chopped Chinese parsley. The sauce was a perfect blend of ginger. *Friendly and attentive service.