I'm a big fan of Insomnia in SALT at Kakaako. It's locally owned and run by a very nice husband and wife team. I guess I'm sort of a regular because when I visited earlier this month, the guy just said, "beef pho" and I was like, "yes!" I also got a Vietnamese iced coffee. A warning that their Vietnamese iced coffee is STRONG! I will ask them to make mine sweeter and then afterwards, I will ask for some more condensed milk. Their beef pho is delicious, it has a combination of rare beef, flank, tendon, beef ball, and a flavorful broth. They're generous with the bean sprouts and basil. If you ask for cooked bean sprouts, she'll put it in first so they'll be at the bottom of the bowl. I've also had the pork chops with rice and that's really good but it's a lunch item. I did order the pork chops in the morning once and it took her awhile to cook it because it wasn't prepped yet but she explained why it took so long and after that, I only ordered breakfast items when I go before 10AM. Their prices are reasonable and I keep coming back because of the tasty food and the friendly owners. Their interiors are cozy and they make the AC cold which is great for eating pho. The tables are close by but I know they're just trying to maximize the seating. The noise level is loud when the restaurant is half full. Most customers come for their Vietnamese iced coffee and they have a lot of people order banh mi and pho for takeout. They give parking validation for the SALT at Kakaako garage so make sure you scan the QR code before you leave. read more

Insomnia - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This place is amazing. Owners are super sweet! Highly recommend you give this place a shot. You can tell they authentically care about people and it shows! read more

Back again after several years and still the best chicken bahn mi on the whole freaking island! I dare to say the best anywhere! I absolutely love the food here and the best complementary drink is the Vietnamese coffee. I've been all over and it's the best here! Strong and sweet! read more

See all

Formerly a cozy coffee house, Insomnia Café has reinvented itself as a Vietnamese restaurant under the same name , and it has quickly become my favorite go-to whenever I'm craving Vietnamese food. After multiple visits, I can say the food is consistently excellent, the prices are incredibly reasonable, and the husband-and-wife owners are some of the warmest people you'll ever meet. He handles the front of the house, she cooks everything fresh in the kitchen, and together they create the kind of hospitality you normally only find in small towns. The Beef Pho is outstanding. Clean, well balanced broth with generous slices of tender sirloin steak. The Lemongrass Chicken (served on freshly baked bread) is packed with flavorful chicken , julienne of pickled carrots, daikon and fresh herbs. The Pork Chop is another standout. A generously sized chop with great seasoning and a caramelized crust. They also have a surprisingly broad menu for such a small operation, including spring rolls, a great Mongolian beef plate, and several salad and sandwich options. Even their breakfast menu looks great. A thoughtful touch I really appreciate: when you sit down, they bring out a complimentary plate of fresh fruit. It's simple, kind, and sets the tone for the whole experience. Street parking is available, or you can use the garage next door. If you're looking for delicious Vietnamese food served by genuinely kind people, Insomnia Café is a gem. Happy Eating!! read more

See all

I will always be a fan of this establishment because it gives me the friendly Vietnamese authentic experience. This mom and pop shop is everything. I have been coming here for years. I want them to stay open forever, so I will come here forever! The fact that they are surviving at their location in Kaka'ako is quite impressive. You know they are true vietnamese because they give fruits with your order! read more

Friendliest and sweetest Vietnamese couple who own and run their quaint and charming little cafe. They're always so welcoming and kind. The pho with brisket and meatball is hot and tasty, perfect for a cold & rainy day. Their pork chop plate is delicious. All the dishes they serve with meat are very healthy, lean cuts with little to no fat. Love that they always offer some complimentary fruit with your meal too. Only gripe is parking might be tricky during lunch hour unless you can get in and out within the first hour of structure parking. read more

See all

The owners have had this restaurant for a while and are one of the few tried and true restaurants that continue do well, stay in the neighborhood, and are very consistent in their friendly service and fresh food! The couple that owns the restaurant are so warm and welcoming and make you feel like you're dining at home. They are running the restaurant completely by themselves and totally kicking butt because this place can get very packed during lunch. You can tell they put a lot of love and labor into this spot. I've dined here and gotten takeout countless of times and can't see any cons, my only wish is that they were open longer hours. They did a great job at decorating the place, the decor gives a woodsy, naturesque, but modern feel - making the restaurant feel relaxing to dine in. It's always clean and inviting. I've tried the Mongolian beef dish and the lemongrass chicken plate. My go to is the lemon grass chicken plate as it has all that you need - protein, carbs, vegetables, and they even throw in a cute little orange as dessert. I'll continue to support this place as they are here. Truly one of the few places that hit the nail on 5 stars in all categories. Definitely one of my favorite lunch spots! read more

Insomnia - Lemongrass chicken plate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This place is hidden on the street side at Salt. The proprietors are amazing and they remembered my friend from a few years ago when she would come in. They immediately brought her a coke and knew what she usually ordered, but suggested something different. There are a fair amount of tables and it's a relaxing environment, decorated minimalist style. They brought fresh strawberries to snack on while waiting for our food. I got the steamed fish, which was perfectly steamed asian style and so delicate! read more

Came for their Vietnamese coffee as heard it was a star. Fortunately, we were not disappointed, as here had one of the most potent Viet Coffee we have had (and appreciated it). Parking is street-side. Decor simple but well done. Staff were very friendly and welcoming making for a great experience. Will be back read more

Located at SALT at our Kakaako right off of Auahi St. this Vietnamese cafe is run by the cutest couple. It feels like eating at your grandparents' house. They service here is so personable and you'll leave with your heart and belly full. We came in about 45 minutes before closing so they didn't have a few items on their menu -- so I did have to pivot from a Vietnamese style bahn mi to a shrimp summer roll. The summer rolls was nice and fresh and perfect for a hot day. I also got a Thai coffee and when I ordered it- I was warned that the coffee taste isn't that strong (not like the Vietnamese coffee). I'm not sure what kinda coffee Aunty drinks, but I thought it had a pretty strong coffee taste! But I'm guessing the Vietnamese coffee is even stronger. We also got their lemongrass chicken rice noodle bowl which was just as refreshing and a great portion size for the price. They also dropped off a plate of cherries of us to snack on before our food came... how sweet and unexpected! Hope to come back earlier in the day to try more off their menu! read more

Insomnia has become one of those rare places that feels like a second home. Every time I walk in, I'm greeted with a warm "friend" from the gentleman running the floor and a sweet "dear" from his wife. They even remember my family -- it's the kind of thoughtful service that sticks with you. The space is always spotless, and the Vietnamese music playing softly in the background gives off spa-like vibes. Calming, inviting, never rushed. They always start by giving some fresh fruit - on the house. Super sweet gesture. I always order the beef pho, and they've perfected every part of it. The broth is piping hot -- hotter than most places -- and packed with flavor. Before the bowl even hits the table, they bring out a little plate of fresh fruit (a small gesture, but one that makes a big impression). Basil and lemon are crisp and fragrant, and they ask how I want the bean sprouts -- on the side or in the bowl. The attention to detail is unreal. Even the noodles seem cut just right; no long, awkward slurping required. What stands out most, though, is the energy. It doesn't matter if you're a regular or a first-timer -- everyone is treated with genuine warmth and care. I've watched them interact with other diners, and it's always the same: cheerful, present, and real. If you're looking for comfort food with comfort service, Insomnia is it. read more

See all

I come here due to its proximity to my house. It is located right on the side side of salt in kakaako. This small little eatery is open for a pretty short time so try and get in there while they are open as each day they're only open from 8 AM to 2 PM. I come in here and I'm greeted quickly by a "hello friend" .It takes a little bit of time to be order but the people that run the café are very cute older Vietnamese couple, so please give them grace--they do it all! Serve you, cook, and clean! Once you order, they often bring out a plate of fruit while you were waiting for your food. However, you're not really waiting that long because of food comes out quite quickly! The food is hot and flavorful and everybody is delicious. I typically come here for pho, but everything else I've tried. Here has been very good. But please note that if you come later in the day, closer to closing, they might run out of food. Today they ran out of spring rolls with about an hour left in their workday. The atmosphere is wonderful here as, again, the couple that owns the place are a delight. They always make jokes about people who order coffee later in the day saying that they'll be up for days. I agree. Their Vietnamese coffee is strong! But while strong, it's very delicious. All in all, eating here is like eating at a friends house. You just sit back and relax and enjoy your food. I really like this place and I really like the owners. I'm so happy to support it. read more

Insomnia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

The cutest mom & pops shop that offers really good Vietnamese cuisine and coffee (if I do say so myself) I was greeted with such warm and welcoming energy. I ordered their Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi, it was full of flavor, and packed with extra veggies hehe. read more

Insomnia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

My only complaint is they arent open longer! But the charm of the owners that will greet you as "my friend" makes you feel right at home in this little location in SALT off of auahi st. They have a restroom located inside (perfect!) and all the chili sauce u may need to compliment your meal. That vietnamese coffee is no joke and aunty will ask if you need more condensed milk cause it is STRONG. I love my coffee but it is potent and legit gave me insomnia one day. Now I know better and only drink half and save the other half for the next day. The beef pho is so delicious. Not oily and very clean broth with the most tender brisket ever!!! I wanted to try the summer rolls which were also good but would be better if I had been with company! If youre looking for an early morning or lunch viet spot or some delicious coffer stop in! You wont be disappointed read more

Insomnia - Summer roll love the peanut sauce - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Called in a take out order. She packed it perfectly for me to reheat for dinner. The Pho (beef & chix) was delicious and definitely my comfort food! The Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi was even better. I toasted it in the air fryer and within minutes it was.crunchy on the crust. read more

The owners, a husband and wife duo, were very friendly and hospitable. The restaurant has been at this location for many years as the owner was telling us and I was so surprised at how clean and tranquil the restaurant was despite it being a smaller restaurant, it gives you all the room you need. The husband was accommodating to add an additional table to give us more room and their menu was simple and easy to understand. We ordered the beef pho and wonton noodle soup with a side of spring rolls which were all so tasty, filling and high quality. Their food is healthy, containing no MSG and it's still so flavorful which I was surprised. The side hot sauces were delicious! Wish I could bring a carton of their hot sauces back home with me. Possibly the best pho on Hawaii! Will definitely come back when we're in the area read more

A great mom & pop shop that makes reasonably priced Vietnamese food in a otherwise expensive neighborhood. The couple who I assume are super sweet. They gave our kids little mandarin oranges while we waited. The decor inside is fun with lots of things to admire like gold fish swimming in a giant champaign glass and dozens of coffee accessories on the wall. The lemong grass chicken banh mi was good. Not as much lemon grass flavor as other places, but not bland by any means. The steam ginger fish tasted low-sodium which I kind of appreciated. Just don't expect the super salty oil shoyu sauce that Chinese restaurants usually use. read more

Insomnia - Lemongrass Chicken Bahn Mi - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Love this place! We came here hungry and ordered their spring rolls which came with lettuce, vermicelli noodles, pickled daikon, and cucumbers with fish sauce. Also ordered their lemongrass chicken banh mi and beef brisket and meatball pho. Everything was delish! This is a cute restaurant in Salt Kakaako with older husband and wife running this shop. Everytime you walk in it feels like you just stepped into your Aunty's place to eat. Very homey and cozy vibes! read more

See all

Solid Vietnamese food at Salt Kakaako. I've tried both bahn mi and rice dishes and they taste absolutely delicious. Seasoning is just right, not too salty. Their coffee is very strong so don't drink it too late otherwise you'll get insomnia! Besides the food, it's the service that makes me come back. The elderly couple are so friendly and cheerful. Never a bad day when you are in this little cafe. There are only like 4 or 5 tables so definitely not for big groups. read more

See all

It is yummy! So nice to have a mom and Pop store with such a sweet older couple taking care of you! It's so comfortable, cozy, and homey; I feel like I'm in my aunties home, except it's much cleaner, with much more tasteful decor, and much more fragrant and delicious foods! read more

This is the best meal we had in Hawaii! The service is so warm and attentive - the lovely couple who runs the restaurant took such good care of us, we felt like we were in the presence of family. I ordered the beef pho and my mom ordered the chicken plate. The pho was delicious - flavorful broth, tender meats, well-cooked noodles - but my mom's chicken plate stole the show. I tried a bite: the chicken is perfectly charred, so tender, and pairs so well with the peanuts and rice. I want to go back to Honolulu just to order a plate for myself! We also ordered a Vietnamese coffee to share. The coffee is pretty large and quite caffeinated, so it was plenty for the two of us. I also really appreciated the complimentary mandarins that they brought out at the start of the meal. Another shout-out to the wonderful older couple who runs this place - we came in for lunch close to their closing time, but they didn't rush us at all, and told us we could wait inside or outside the cafe for the bus even after they had closed up shop. This is on our must-visit list if we're ever back in Honolulu! read more

Insomnia - beef pho - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

I was attracted to this place when I saw goldfishes in an interesting tank. I was looking for a place to eat so I checked the menu with my friend. The menu looked good so we went in and had a great service and yummy lunch. Thank you goldfish, for getting my attention. (^^) It's Vietnamese food restaurant. We shared Lemongrass Chicken ($12.50) and Pork Chops ($12.50). Both dishes were delicious. Great flavor. Portion were good too. I want to try other food next time but because they were so good I might order the same one. We had ice tea and it came with strawberry. I looked at other table and it seems like fruit comes with drink order. Very nice service. People there were friendly and very thoughtful. We sat at the table with 2 chairs but the owner? he gave us extra chair to put our bags. I can't wait to go back. read more

See all

My son found this place and recommended for their wonderful value, drinks and food AND amazing and friendly service! We are huge fans!! Really comfortable place! read more

Thankfully insomnia is not a common issue for me though their shop hours painfully is... insomnia seems more fitting of the couple that runs this place as their energy is infectious, and of course with a name like that yes they do serve coffee. Everything from coffee of the day, all types of espresso drinks including Thai coffee, Chai Latte, Hot Chocolate, Matcha Latte, Espresso Shake...even Bubble drinks! If you got your sleep to swing by early enough they have breakfast which is served til 10:30am with Breakfast on the French Roll to their Breakfast Special which all sounds yummy to make a great start to your day. This Vietnamese restaurant or I think it is has the classic Bahn Mi along with the standard Turkey, Tuna, Roast Beef, Ham or Chicken sandwich on your choice of bread, Salads, Pork Chops, Steamed Fish Fillet, Pho (Beef, Chicken or Veggie) and I already knew what I wanted instantly looking at their menu. Lemongrass Chicken Cold Noodle though their menu states all plates served with small salad, and Jasmine or Brown Rice which I didn't think my dish qualified for and wasn't really interested but they did gave me a slice of papaya. The sauce that came with it tied it all just perfectly already loaded with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumbers, Thai basil and the load of peanuts the chicken seasoned perfectly all came together so refreshingly. The vibe in this tiny nook is so cute with a giant champagne glass filled with goldfish and every wall is decorated but the real draw is the sweet couple with sweet aunty making you feel so welcomed as if you're the only one there she making sure I was comfortable. Insomnia...cute name with the loveliest couple who takes great care of your needs that will put you in a knack attack food coma. Thank you! read more

See all

Stopped by while visiting the Salt At Our Kakaako and ordered the pho, which turned out great. The soup was very good and I think it may have been the best pho soup I have had in a very long time. Moreover, the couple that worked there were so friendly and kind. This really is a hidden gem. read more

See all

My friend saw a tiktok video of insomnia and asked if we could go. I am always down for a TikTok rec, so we went over for lunch. It was pretty crowded, but we managed to snag a table and eat before they closed at 1pm. Insomnia is located in SALT Kakaako, near Bevy. I parked in the lot because street parking has been reduced significantly over the years and I can never find a spot. Parking in the lot with validation is only $1 per hour, so it's no big deal I guess. There are a few tables inside insomnia. You order at the register and your food is brought out to you. The kind older couple gave every table a small plate of fruit as an appetizer. We all got the lemongrass chicken on rice and an iced coffee. The iced coffee was very strong and delicious. The lemongrass chicken was flavorful and tender. It paired perfectly with the jasmine rice and the salad with fish sauce dipping sauce. It was a great experience. I liked the decor and the food. The owners were nice and I will definitely be back to try other things on their menu. read more

Good beef pho, ready quickly, made custom with some alterations, nice flavor, generous serving. Not much else to say. They have lots of smoothies and boba flavors on the menu, so that's something to try next time. Very friendly proprietors, as always. read more

Insomnia - Beef pho to go - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Kakaako is full of eateries. This is my second time here. I came previously when they first opened. It's run by a cute couple that make you feel at home right away. The feel I get when I'm inside is comfortable. The decor is a young and vibrant feel. I was served fresh strawberries to munch on while my order went in. I wanted pho so I ordered a bowl and also the Mongolian beef rice dish. The pho came out nice and hot and they had all the condiments and vegetables. It was nice and hot and they gave a few slices of beef. The flavor unfortunately didn't match my taste and I wish they would give a bit more noodles. But to eat his own. However the Mongolian beef was rather tasty. I had nice jasmine rice and fresh salad and tomato and cucumber with it. The meat was on the sweeter side but with the onions it didn't disappoint and I munched on that. All in all it's did the job. I left full and happy I gave business to a local vendor. They are very hard working and friendly and seem to have their regulars so I'm happy. read more

See all

Today I discovered a true gem in SALT at Our Kaka'ako - Insomnia! So many times I walked past this little Vietnamese coffee house, and I've been wanting to try it. I say little, but there are several tables on the sidewalk outside as well as inside. The ambiance is surprisingly charming, nicely decorated with soft mood music in the background. There's a large menu on the wall offering a decent selection of teas, espresso drinks, Thai iced tea, boba. Not very extensive but certainly enough choices. I walked up to the counter and an elderly lady asked what I would like. I selected the French Vietnamese Sandwich Combo for $13.65. The combo includes a side salad, chips, and a soft drink. An older gentleman I assume was her husband came out from the kitchen and asked if I wanted chicken or pork. I chose the pork. There was a display case with the usual Coke, Sprite, and Mountain Dew. She could tell I wasn't really interested so she suggested iced tea. I selected a bag of chips and found a table. The gentleman brought out a tray with a small plate of strawberries and cherries, a garden salad, and a glass of unsweetened tea. The fruit was excellent - perfectly ripe - and the salad was fresh and crisp. A few minutes later he brought out my sandwich; a pork and pate Bánh mì with fresh cilantro and the usual veggies on a warm baguette. Everything was good, and the price was almost too good to be true. I have had better Bánh mì around the island, but the overall experience was outstanding. In a neighborhood where it's hard to find a sandwich for less than $16, it's a rare find to get an entire meal for less than $14. I plan to go back there soon to try the coffee. read more

Insomnia - The French Vietnamese Sandwich Combo includes a side salad with choice of dressing, fruit, chips, and a drink for $13.65. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Small Vietnamese restaurant ran by a really nice old couple! Small menu but they do it very well. I usually get the banh mi with a side of pho broth, beef combination pho, and iced thai tea. read more

Amazing chicken sandwich. The bread is tantalizing and the taste is exquisite. The owners make you feel very special. Recommend it all the time! read more

Love this local mom & pop, family business in SALT. You are treated with warmth and energy upon entry like you're a daily regular. The food is tasty and the "strong iced coffee" is the only way to go. Super strong iced with a splash of condensed milk and I'm sure some secret preparation to deliver the punch you need. read more

I came here at 9:30am on Monday and I was the only one there so service was very quick. The couple running the place are very sweet and accommodating, making sure I Iiked the coffee sweetness level and adjusting as needed. The coffee was very strong (she warned me and let me try before I committed) and I definitely would've preferred it more watered down. I am Vietnamese and have had homemade Vietnamese coffee before but this was way stronger than any Vietnamese coffee I've ever had and was a little strong for my taste. I also ordered a meatball pho. The price is hard to beat especially in Honolulu. However, I feel that the quality was lacking. The broth was good and worth what you're paying for but the noodles and meatballs tasted a bit off. The noodles were slightly powdery and meatballs had a slight smell. I was still able to finish my bowl but it didn't leave me wanting more. I have had their Vietnamese sandwiches in the past and I definitely liked that! Bread was crunchy and flavors were strong and delicious. I recommend getting a sandwich instead of pho when you come here. I also think that they run a pretty tight business for 2 reasons. 1) I was asked to not stay on my laptop too long because they get busy during the lunch hour (this was at 10am) and 2) when I came out of the bathroom, I overheard the owner say "what's taking her so long?" to her husband not seeing that I was right there. The place had no other customers and I only I took about 5 minutes. This behavior is kind of off putting but I may come back at a later because the couple running it does seem very sweet overall. read more

Insomnia - Beef Pho with Meatballs - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Timing is everything. Went around 11am and there were a ton of open seats. By the time we got our food all the inside tables were gone and there were still people coming in wanting to sit in the ac. Super cute place with friendly staff. Aunty was funny because she kept yelling at everyone telling them what to do. (Not mad yelling, just hollering at staff) I got the lemongrass chicken plate, which was very tasty. Though it had a lot more peanuts than i wouldve liked. I liked that it had the pickled daikon & carrot. Everyone else got the beef pho. At the end they brought out complementary pound cake. Though they didnt take the paper off the bottom, so check that before you bite into it. They have a bunch of smoothies and drinks too, since that is whats in their name (insomnia espresso & coffee) but we went for the pho read more

See all

Completely adorable couple that run this cafe. Generous portions and really flavorful. But get there early as they can run out of food or close earlier. Have wonderful lemongrass noodles and lemongrass chicken over rice. Another diner had an amazing pork chop plate as well. Prices are reasonable in the $13 range. read more

See all

I'm always on the look out for a good banh mi. So when a colleague told me I had to try this place, I didn't hesitate. There is a short menu, most of the time signifying they are good at their craft or signature dish. I got the lemongrass chicken banh mi. It was tasty with everything you would expect, flavorful chicken, pickled daikon and carrots, cilantro. Filling to french bread was on the lighter side. It was enough to fill me up but I tend to eat lighter. Located on Auahi Street of Salt Kaka'ako. Look for a coffee shop front. A few tables inside and outside. read more

Very tasty family owned restaurant. The couple is nice and makes you feel like at home. Feels good eating in this cute little restaurent, where the owners welcome you. The fish filet tasted fresh and light, served over a bed of white rice. The fish has no bones, it is seasoned lightly with salt and a bit of sweetness, perfect for someone that wants something healthy and light. The lemongrass chicken was tasty and juicy. Unfortunately, the Bahn Mi Sandwich was not my favorite, it was a bit dry. But that will not stop me from coming back again to try other items. Our food came out super fast. We will come back again to try other dishes read more

See all

We got the Pork and Chicken bahn mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) and they're both taste very good. We also tried Vietnamese coffee and taste very yummy and strong. We love the ambience. We got served by the owners themselves and they're both very friendly. The best customer service by far. We'll for sure come back again. I highly recommend this place. (Food was really good that we finished them before I got to take the pictures). read more

Vietnamese iced coffee- Decided to come here in the morning to get my craving fixxx. When coming in, the lady was very friendly and the café is very cute and relaxing. Definitely wanna come back to try their Banh Mi and dine in. The Viet Ice coffee is already premade.. Which I didn't like. Vietnamese Coffee is great FRESH & made with the condense milk while it is still warm. The condense milk was poured in while the coffee was already cold *premade* & My drink was sweet but it was completely dark no matter how much condense milk she put in. It was great but after a while it got sour and it wasn't pleasant to drink at all. This was the first time Iv had Viet ice coffee made like this and I get this drink often so this experience wasn't so great. But I'll definitely come back for the Banh Mi. read more

See all

Customer service is personable and enjoyable. They are genuinely happy to see each customer and enjoy what the do and provide. I've tried all bahn mi sandwiches and they are excellent. The summer rolls kinda fell apart... but was a great texture and very refreshing. The peanut sauce is excellent. The lemongrass rice bowl... and you can also get it with vermicelli, is definitely quality and replete with intense flavors. read more