If you head out to take in a gorgeous Haleakala sunrise, you will want to make sure that you stop by the local favorite Grandma’s Coffee house. Grandma’s is one of those places in Hawaii that you have to experience while you are there. This is a place that locals visit daily, and when you are there you will know exactly why they keep going back.
When you first walk through the door, you will hear the door squeak. Notice the personalized coffee cups hanging above the cash register. We felt like we were visiting our grandma’s house as soon as we opened the door. From the menu on the chalkboard wall to the smell of freshly roasted coffee greets you as soon as you enter, nostalgia truly fills the air in this wonderful little coffee shop/restaurant. The beans are still roasted using a wood fire roaster that has been around since 1885. All done by hand, which is one of the reasons this place is so magical.
Grab a seat inside or outside on the charming lanai. The outdoor patio allows you to enjoy beautiful views. The breeze is lovely while sipping a simply excellent cup of coffee and some truly delicious made-from-scratch food that will transport you back to childhood.
What you need to try while you are there:
First and foremost, you have to get a cup of coffee. Grandma perfected this traditional cup of joe throughout the years. Starting in 1918, the family continues the tradition of picking coffee beans by hand, drying them out in the sun, and then roasting them right on site. So no matter how you like your coffee, you will be hard-pressed to find a better cup while you are on the island.
You cannot go wrong with anything on the menu, but the wonderful eggs benedict is our favorite. Forgoing the traditional English muffin for a cornbread waffle, this dish is one that you are definitely going to want to try.
The menu at Grandma’s Coffee House changes daily. Still, you can expect to find excellent breakfast dishes filled with food that is soul-warming and comforting. The lunch dishes often include pasta bakes that are quite scrumptious.
Make sure that you leave room for an order of the famous banana bread or a slice of pineapple-banana dream cake. If you do not have room after your hearty breakfast, make sure you get a piece to go.
Insider Tips:
The views on this part of the island are simply spectacular. Taking the time to start your day by viewing the sunrise is something you will not soon forget. After the sunrise, head into Keokea, a lovely rural area that includes great views, a magnificent park, and a cute gallery.