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Welcome To Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters, located in Koloa, Hawaii, is a vibrant café that merges caffeine culture with local charm. Renowned for standout beverages like the Cortado with Haupia Foam and the Aloha Spirit iced latte, it offers an unforgettable tropical coffee experience. The café's airy, industrial-chic ambiance creates an inviting workspace perfect for locals and travelers alike, with massive tables and a chill playlist. Friendly staff enhance the experience, providing not just coffee but local trail recommendations for adventures beyond the cup. With a small shop offering unique souvenirs, Dark Horse is a must-visit for coffee lovers seeking both taste and a community vibe.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Drip Coffee
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Matcha Latte
Haupia Foam Cold Brew
About
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
Welcome to the aromatic world of Dark Horse Coffee Roasters, nestled in the charming town of Koloa, Hawaii. Located at 5521 Koloa Rd, this coffee haven is more than just a place to grab your daily caffeine fix; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses and invigorates the soul. Drawing on a mix of local ingredients and exceptional brewing techniques, Dark Horse has quickly become a staple for both locals and visitors alike.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by an airy, industrial-chic atmosphere that invites you to settle in and stay awhile. The natural light filtering through the windows enhances the vibrant energy of this community gathering spot. Think cozy corners for solo work sessions and ample communal tables perfect for catching up with friends or diving into that next creative project—especially with the reliable Wi-Fi and plenty of charging stations.
Customers rave about the stellar coffee selections, from meticulously crafted cortados with haupia foam to the refreshing Aloha Spirit iced latte. The rich flavors and artisanal presentation will have you questioning your loyalties to your usual brew. As one enthusiastic patron put it, "Dark Horse has ruined all other coffee for me!" If you’re a coffee aficionado, you’ll definitely want to take a sip of their innovative drinks that combine local Hawaiian flavors with classic espresso techniques.
But don’t overlook the vibe outside! The charming outdoor seating makes it an ideal locale for those beautiful Kaua’i mornings. Whether you’re fueling up before an adventure—like hiking at Waimea Canyon—or simply enjoying a well-deserved break, Dark Horse provides the perfect pitstop. The spirited baristas often share local tips and recommendations, enhancing your visit with genuine island hospitality.
While opinions on the ambiance might vary—some found it a bit bland—what remains universally appreciated is the quality of the coffee and the friendly staff that strive to create a welcoming environment. Keep an eye out for local art exhibitions inside, adding an extra layer of culture to your coffee experience. And with reasonable prices, good food options, and a small retail space featuring local goods, it’s a delightful spot for both caffeine and a bit of shopping.
In a world overflowing with coffee choices, Dark Horse Coffee Roasters stands out not just for its exceptional brews but for its ability to create a true community hub. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a visit here promises delicious coffee, friendly faces, and a genuine experience that embodies the heart of Kaua’i.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ We were on the hunt for the best espresso and Dark Horse led the pack! We ordered a honey cinnamon latte and a normal latte which were both delicious. The service was good and quick! Definitely recommend visiting this coffee shop when you’re in the area! ”
“ Dark Horse Coffee on Kauai — coffee heaven AND adventure HQ! Let me start by saying: Cortado with Haupia Foam = my new religion. Creamy coconut foam meets rich espresso? Dark Horse, you’ve ruined all other coffee for me. But this place isn’t just about next-level drinks. The space itself is magic — airy, bright, with that cool industrial-chic vibe. Perfect for camping out with mylaptop (shoutout to the massive tables and chill playlist). Pro tip: Come early to claim a spot by the leafy windows — ultimate coworking zen! And can we talk about the staff? So friendly! The barista Mickle even gave me trail recommendations after I mentioned hiking Waimea Canyon. Speaking of… This is THE spot to fuel up pre-adventure! Grabbed my cortado, inhaled almond cake(), and was canyon-bound in 50 minutes. Proximity to nature + caffeine excellence = unmatched combo. 10/10 would caffeinate here daily. See you tomorrow, Dark Horse. (And yes, I’ll be ordering the same thing.) P.S. Charging stations + strong Wi-Fi = productivity win! ”
“ I can’t believe I never took a picture of The Aloha Spirit iced latte i got. I went there 3 times and it was not close to me! Best coffee spot of all the islands and I tried probably 10 spots! ”
“ Stopped in for a quick shot. I’ve been to the location in Truckee, CA a few times and had to see this one. It was ok. The coffee was good but not what I was expecting and the ambiance was a bit bland. The location is a bit bland. There is a little shop inside with some super expensive souvenirs and such. Over all I’d go back if I was in the area but I wouldn’t go out of my way. Just my opinion. Coffee was good though. ”
“ I had high expectations after reading reviews about the friendly staff, but I didn’t find them particularly welcoming. The food wasn’t memorable, but considering the reasonable prices, it wasn’t bad. The space is spacious, and the outdoor area is especially nice, so it might be a good spot to enjoy coffee outside. Also, it seems like they have a small exhibition of artworks by local artists inside the café, so keep that in mind. ”
“ Loved this spot! Dark Horse Coffee feels like a true local hangout. It’s right next to the elementary school, and you can tell people in the neighborhood come here daily. Coffee? I got an americano, my friend tried the brown sugar latte - both amazing! If you’re a coffee lover in Kaua’i, this should be on your list. Bonus! There’s a cute retail space inside with swimsuits, surf gear, accessories, cards, and more. Such a fun mix of caffeine + shopping ”
“ Nice coffee shop with indoor and outdoor seating, spacious and has a very relaxing atmosphere. Coffee is good, they have a few breakfast items, including bagels if you want to go simple. There's a gift store inside the building and they also sell their roast. ”