By Kristin Hashimoto

Cheesecake from Wailuku Coffee Co. Photo by Kristin Hashimoto.

Your dose of java, live music, baked goodies, wraps, salads and more, is conveniently located in Wailuku, at the Wailuku Coffee Co. Friendly staff converse freely about desserts, food and the liquid libation that keeps people buzzing throughout their day. The atmosphere is decidedly alternative with a tatted-up staff and their fashionable eyewear and accessories.

The coffee shop has good floor space, which can be configured as needed for their live events.  In the past these have included some burlesque photo shoots, live music, and art exhibitions/contests.

The food is good, with fresh salads, made to order wraps, and freshly baked scones and desserts made in house. The granola, fruit and yogurt parfait is excellent. The parfait has just the right amount of sweet crunchy granola to balance a slightly tart yogurt, all topped with fresh berries that burst with juice at every bite.

The lemon coconut scone is dense and rather rich. The texture is heavy and the flavor of lemon does not overwhelm the coconut flavor and sweet frosting. Coconut flakes grace the top of the scone. The cheesecake is incredibly rich and the Portuguese custard tart is an enticing combination of flaky, chewy, and creamy. The custard flavor is similar to a Chinese custard egg tart. It’s rich; you can taste the egg yolks and see the naturally deep yellow color come through in the custard.

Portuguese Custard Tart. Photo by Kristin Hashimoto.

Finally, the coffee is good. Choices range from: rich espressos, organic coffees, and local beans. Prices are affordable with desserts and scones in the $3 range. Entrees and salads are under $10.

For more information call 495-0259. Wailuku Coffee Co. is located at 26 North Market Street in Wailuku. They are open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.