Common Groundz’ Staff, Brian Yu, Janice Franklin and Daniel ChonCommon Groundz coffee shop in the Hawaii Kai Shopping Center may have the same look, but it now offers so much more. New owner Don Chon took over this month with new menu items, hours and staff. Assisted by his family, Chon brought some ideas from his former business, Island Subs & Burgers in Manoa, one of which was to serve breakfast items. When asked why Chon was willing to invest in a coffee shop during such tough economic times, Chon said he was looking to buy a restaurant. When he saw the beautiful view and relaxing location of Common Groundz, he didn’t think twice. Don’s son Dan, and Dan’s fiancée Janice Franklin agreed. Franklin expressed how word of mouth about their new menu, attentive service and new hours have already made a positive impact on their new venture.

 “We knew we couldn’t compete with McDonald’s for breakfast,” says Franklin with a smile, “but we also knew that the people of Hawaii Kai needed a quality breakfast option that was still affordable, so we teamed up with our neighbor, BluWater Grill.” Common Groundz utilizes the chefs at Blue Water Grill to make the best gourmet fried rice in town. For $2.99 they offer a breakfast special that includes the incredible fried rice (until it runs out – then is substituted for steamed rice) and Portuguese sausage. They also have Waffles topped with fresh berries, the biggest acai bowl in town and an organic coffee. Franklin explains that Common Groundz was already known for the wonderfully rich Italian coffee, Illy. “Illy is really for the coffee connoisseur and is too strong and pricy for the average drinker. So, we offer a flavorful organic coffee for only $.99. It is a wonderfully affordable and flavorful option to fast food coffee. And we also sell lox along with bagels and cream cheese as well as a panini breakfast sandwich.” Other options include an entire display of pastries, muffins, and scones. 

Chon has plans for a website and wants to be known for having the freshest menu around, from their fresh brewed coffee, to iced tea, berries and fruits, and sandwiches and paninis that are made to order from a variety of options. A banner is soon to go up, listing all of the new menu items like pastrami and Ruben sandwiches. 

The place is warm and friendly, with a staff that makes people feel welcome and wanted. I had the ham and cheese panini which was wonderfully gooey and delicious. Common Groundz is open Monday – Friday 6AM – 6PM and 7AM – 7PM on the weekends.