Beyond the Bean

French Onion Soup ($7) and Tomato Watermelon Salad ($7)

Kissaten is a mile beyond the coffee shop norm. I’ve never seen a menu this diverse and with so many options at Starbucks or Coffee Bean, that’s for sure.

Its sleek, modern decor is motivating and energizing, as local artwork hangs from bright orange walls. Open since December 2010, Kissaten has morphed into a dynamic and welcoming eatery for many crowds and demographics.

For those looking for their morning, afternoon or even late-night caffeine pick-me-up, Kissaten has a laundry list of speciality coffee, tea and espresso drinks to choose from.

“We have a really good Matcha Tea Latte and a Chai Tea Freeze. Most of the time people have a hot chai, but we have a freeze, which is good,” says co-owner Neysa Taba.

With its crisp, clean atmosphere, Kissaten is a fitting spot for those business or power lunches with co-workers, partners and clients. And as it is open 24 hours a day, it’s a comfortable restaurant to bring family or a date for lunch or dinner.

“Our menu is basically contemporary American, but we like to bring in influences from other countries like Japanese, Italian, French and Greek,” says Taba.

Two noteworthy options include Tomato Watermelon Salad and French Onion Soup, both priced at $7 each.

A refreshing, light option, Tomato Watermelon Salad includes halved cherry tomatoes, cubed watermelon, sliced onion, basil and feta cheese, topped with Kissaten’s house-made red wine vinaigrette dressing.

Kissaten’s version of the classic French onion soup adds a little flair as the restaurant chooses to top the soup with gouda cheese and a touch of truffle oil.

“We started off serving just coffee and simple foods like soups and sandwiches. As our food started getting more popular we expanded the menu, adding more appetizers and entrees,” Taba states.

Kissaten also is BYOB-friendly, welcoming those who would like to have wine or beer with their meal.

Kissaten Coffee Bar

88 Piikoi St., Honolulu
593.1200
Open daily, 24 hours