I live in the village and absolutely love what Aaron has done with the place! He has turned what used to be mostly a touristy place into a place that is now for locals. Him and chef Brad have created such a unique menu with items you cannot get anywhere around here and the quality is off the charts. Not only is the food and service amazing, they are truly just amazing people who really care about their customers. I highly recommend going there and trying all of their amazing food that they make from scratch. Thank you to everyone there who always makes us feel so welcomed and taken care of. This is truly a local Carlsbad Village spot. read more

This was my first time back at Kona Craft Cafe since the restaurant was rebranded earlier this year, and I was excited to see the changes. The restaurant now has a fun Hawaiian theme, which gives it a fresh and inviting atmosphere. We went for breakfast, and they offer both indoor and outdoor seating. They can get pretty busy during breakfast, so be prepared for a possible wait for a table. When you first walk in, there is also a counter with muffins and other items available for purchase. I ordered the French toast, and it was delicious! Everyone in our group enjoyed their meals, so it looks like you really can't go wrong with the breakfast options. They also now serve Kona coffee, and it was amazing! I think I ended up drinking four cups--it was that good! Overall, we had a great breakfast and really enjoyed the new look and Hawaiian vibe. The food was delicious, the coffee was excellent, and the atmosphere was welcoming. We will definitely be back! read more

See all

First time back since the rebrand and it was a nice experience. The staff is so friendly and greeted us with a smile and the service was excellent. Overall breakfast was good; the coffee is fantastic. I love straight black coffee and their blend is great, no cream or sugar needed. I had the Kona omelette and it was very tasty. I could taste all the flavors and the mango salsa was nice and fresh. My wife had the egg, cheese & avocado crepes and the recipe changed a bit so they weren't as great as the previous recipe. The only letdown was the potatoes which weren't crispy and lacked seasoning. But overall, this is a great breakfast spot in Carlsbad. We'd come back each time we're in town. read more

I'm always on the hunt for a great latte that reminds me of Hawaii so I had to check this place out. Right in the heart of the village so it's easy to walk to but not so easy to park. I tried the Iced Haupia Latte and it was great! Perfect if you're a coconut lover. It was $7.55 with oatmilk so I feel like that's a pretty standard price nowadays. Enjoyed it on the chairs outside for a while. I would definitely come back! read more

See all

After grieving the loss of Daily News Cafe, I decided to go try Kona Craft Cafe. Tera, who had worked at this location for over 20 years, is still there, along with some other familiar faces. She is a superhero in the food service industry and know how to make a great experience. She is charming, quick, gives updates, and recommendations. The decor is nautical, cutesy, and has color changing lights on the ceiling. The pastry case is still there. And the food - wow! Lots of the same Daily News menu items and some elevated/contemporary dishes. Huge drink menu with a large variety of mimosas. Still has a local feel. Highly recommend! read more

See all

They had me at coconut/Mac pancakes (Island Style Pancakes) and loco moco. Add to that, the outer patio is dog friendly - with a server that was a dog-lover - so we were happy campers (including our doggie). The Island Style Pancakes was it for me! We also had the Broke Da Mouth Loco Moco - which was good - but the pancakes with the coconut was fluffy and flavorful and the pomegranate seeds was a really good unexpected complement to it. We generally love loco moco so we were happy with that too. But I'd say it was truly the pancakes that "broke da mouth". We also had the coconut latte which was kinda "meh". It had coconut cream chunks which didn't really infuse flavor into the coffee nor was it like having boba or pudding in a drink where it was drinkable either. It was too sweet and gloppy for my tastes. So skip the fancy coffees, but definitely get the pancakes!!! Thank you Kona for a nice beach vacay meal! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Island Style Pancakes {5/5}: fluffy goodness topped with flavorful coconut syrup, Mac nuts, and a touch of pomegranate seeds - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Kona Craft Café is super close to Carlsbad Inn, and I was happy to find a spot serving Hawaiian food. Our party ordered the green chilaquiles, Spam musubi, buttermilk pancakes, and Broke da Mouth Moco. The chilaquiles had good flavor, though I wish the chips were crunchier. The pancakes were pretty good, with no complaints. I'd probably skip the Spam musubi--I've had better. The Moco was mostly rice compared to the meat, but still decent. Overall, the food was good, but I've had better Hawaiian food, which is why I'm giving it 4 stars. I'd still come back. read more

See all

Our server was super friendly, though I did feel like she forgot about us. Got the country fried steak and it was our favorite of the meal. Loco moco was good, but the beef was dry. Both dishes could've used more gravy. Crab cake Benedict was good too! Sad piece of asparagus didn't need to be there. Would I come back? Maybe read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Loco moco, crab cake Benedict, and country fried steak - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

We visited on a Friday lunchtime. Busy place in the village. We sat outside under umbrellas it was great. Expect to wait on weekends. Extra friendly service, and a fantastic Loco Moco here, eggs cooked perfect - over easy. We did ask for extra gravy. They have some variations that look good too like Kalua Pork. We do recommend. read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Kona Craft is a cute cafe that took over the Daily News spot in the Carlsbad Village. It has a Hawaiian touch on everything- Hawaiian coffee, pineapple burger, tropical iced tea, etc. They didn't renovate anything so the termite damage and faded art is still there. Number for this location is the bathroom is a journey away. Upstairs and behind a coded door but it's nice. All the food was extremely delish. read more

See all

It was good. Great? Not great. I'm not sure how to feel about it considering they're supposed to have like a half Hawaiian-inspired theme going on? Came here for lunch with my coworkers on a Thursday, so it was considerably slower but we were able to find open seating quickly. The server was nice, she did seem kind of frazzled at points and needed help locating things on her handheld POS, which fine, of course I don't mind helping. The food was just okay, to be honest I think the idea of their menu was more enticing than the actual food. Not to say that it was bad, it was just middle of the road? I didn't taste anything exceptionally Hawaiian? My katsu sandwich was a little burnt and didn't have any salt, my coworkers steak was rare and he didn't get asked for cooking preference so I guess that's either on him or the server? The poutine was decent, didn't taste like kalua pork but I guess that's it? I'm ambivalent because maybe we just got the wrong things? Or maybe it wasn't great and they were having an off day. In any sense I would maybe go back but I wouldn't seek it out? read more

See all

Stopped by on a Sunday morning for breakfast. Great location right next to the Carlsbad Inn. We were greeted by a friendly hostess and they sat us outside on the patio which had heaters. Service was friendly. Prices were reasonable based on the quality and freshness of the food. We ordered Kona coffee, the California three-egg omelette with fruit and a biscuit, and the Island Style pancakes. Everything was tasty - the star of the show was the pancakes with a coconut glaze, macadamia nuts, and pomegranate seeds. We are already making plans to return and try some of their delicious looking cinnamon rolls. read more

See all

keep seeing pop-up ads for KONA CRAFT CAFE in my activity feed. since I grew up in the islands, figured it was a sign from the Yelp gods I should (actually "ought" since it's a moral imperative) give the place a try. had to try the SPAM MUSUBI (grilled, house-made Spam served nigiri-style: sushi rice, nori (seaweed) strip, and a soy-based glaze with toasted sesame seeds). interesting spin on an old staple. being a natural-born fool for herbie-cheese baked goods, had the 2 EGGS BREAKFAST (scrambled with bacon, a rosemary-cheese biscuit, and a fruit bowl). eggs were a bit under-stirred (you can tell in the photo by how they set), but otherwise did not disappoint. pomegranate seeds were a great add to the fruit bowl. the bottomless pit, nineteen-year-old son ordered the MIXED LUNCH PLATE with Kalua pork, grilled Portuguese sausage (Linguiça), island-style mac salad, and steamed rice. filled that rascal up and we waddled out fat and sassy. looking forward to return visits which will almost certainly include one of the mocos (the Hawaiian version with eggs, meat, steamed rice and brown gravy NOT the pigeon Spanish one with boogers). read more

See all

Well, this is a first visit for me since it was rebranded, but went with some friends, one of whom had visited before. So...they have a very large food selection so it took a while to decide. I had the Carlsbad breakfast burrito and I wish I would have chosen something else, maybe something with an Hawaiian flare. The eggs inside the burrito looked like they had been poured atop the flattop in a thin layer and then folded up inside along with some very mushy potatoes. Minimal bacon. And it was tiny! This is SoCal and this was not a typical of a good burrito here. The pico de gallo served with it had no flavor, but the green sauce was decent. My friends had a BLT (good but not enough mayo and the toast was not toasted), the lilikoi stuffed French toast which was beautifully presented and delicious, and a beef dip sandwich. We did share an order of beignets with raspberry sauce which were fresh and tasty. Our server was good and came to check on us frequently and did not have a problem with giving us individual checks. We enjoyed the outdoor patio which had ceiling fans and since we are experiencing a heatwave this was appreciated. Honestly, I probably would not return since there are many brunch and lunch spots I enjoy more, but it was certainly not a bad place. read more

See all

Excellent location at the entrance of Carlsbad Village. Plenty of parking. The place is clean. The staff is friendly. The fresh squeezed orange juice is a must. Recommend if in the area read more

See all

Headed over to this cafe after my husband ran the Carlsbad 5000. I was craving potatoes and then found this little gem. We LOVE Loco Moko. They had four different options. Needless to say it was super yum. Our waitress was ah-mazing. And the inside has Hawaiian-ish decor. Lots of hibiscus, which I love. We will definitely go back to satisfy or Loco Moco craving. They do have spam musubi. That's about the only thing I would not order again. The rice did not stick enough and it was a bit too large. read more

See all

Our server was super sweet, but the food was pretty bland (especially the potatoes) and super overpriced.

If you're looking for the perfect breakfast, brunch, or lunch spot in Carlsbad Village, Kona Craft Cafe is an absolute must! I love meeting my girlfriends here for their amazing champagne brunch and then taking a relaxing stroll along the beach afterward--it's the perfect way to start the day. The food is incredibly fresh and delicious, and the drinks are truly something special. Each one is uniquely handcrafted and full of flavor. The staff is always so friendly, welcoming, and attentive, which makes the experience even better. The atmosphere is bright, clean, and inviting--exactly what you want for a laid-back coastal brunch. If you're visiting Carlsbad or live nearby, I highly recommend checking out Kona Craft Cafe. It's easily one of the best spots in the Village! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Super fresh and delicious food - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Went for breakfast. Had a mimosa which was good. Pricey for 4. Cinnamon roll was flavorful but could have been a little warmer.

I gotta be fair, this remodel is amazing. The house made spam was good. Katsu was good. The issues are the Mac salad is insanely horrible.. the breakfast potatoes were not done. If you gotta use restroom it's outside upstairs. Elders may have a difficult time going up stairs This is a 3/5 but the service was good and the decor was nice. Please!!! Change the Mac salad recipe macaroni taste like chalk and the flavor was horrible lol read more

Fantastic experience! Lots of different food options to choose from. We tried the pancakes (so good!), the savory egg and cheese crepes, and the mushroom truffle omelet. They were all delicious. The berry jam for our sour dough toast was fresh and the house potatoes were cooked perfectly! We will definitely be back and recommend to anyone wanting a yummy aloha inspired breakfast, brunch or lunch! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Savory eggs and cheese crepes/house potatoes/pancake - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

10/10 recommend . Everything was delicious and very well prepared I'm VERY picky with fresh fish, especially salmon and they killed it . The outdoor seating was also great, amazing location. The gal who served us was pleasant and upbeat and stayed on top of drinks and making sure we were doing good! I'll definitely be back read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Beat Salmon avocado toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

The Kona Craft Cafe is a Great addition to downtown Carlsbad. The food is excellent, almost everything is made in house, the Hawaiian influence is a very tasty touch. The prices are reasonable for great food. Do not pass up the homemade pastries, coffee is organic, our new go to place in Carlsbad. read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Also NO extra surcharges added to your bill. The prices are what you see. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Yes, go here! Thank you for bringing the aloha to Carlsbad! Great location, food and service. The patio is also perfect on a beautiful day. We'll be back! Mahalo! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Da Big Moke. Generous and delicious! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

The topping of the pancakes were very good and not too sweet. Although they were a little burnt and were hard to cut through even with a knife. The burrito tortilla could have been a little crispier for my liking but not bad! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Nice little glow up. Enjoyed the Hawaiian menu items including the masubi and the Kona omelette. read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Kona omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Food was good! Waited a little while for food but not terribly long. Place is cute! Great if you want to stop to eat then shop around after. read more

See all

Stopped in for a late lunch. Everything on the menu looked so good! Definitely had many unique dishes! We got the lemon blueberry coffee cake, a Greek omelet with egg whites, and the 2 protein moco plate. We enjoyed all the food! But the lemon blueberry coffee cake stole the show!! We were sat outside and waitstaff made sure to check in with us regularly and kept our waters filled. They let us know that everything is made in house and the coffee is all sourced from Hawaii! We can't wait to come back to try more of their unique offerings. Especially the biscuits! And probably a mimosa flight! Love that it's a family owned business and not corporate. Definitely recommend. read more

The food was just ok. The POG was the highlight of our meal. I'll just order POG to go!

Such a great breakfast and lunch spot!!! From the ambiance, service and food you can't go wrong. Right in the heart of beautiful Carlsbad Village. It's my go to breakfast spot!! Love the new changes and ownership!! read more

See all

The service was horrible. With only 2 other tables occupied we waited 10 minutes for the server. The 5 in our party ordered different breakfast selections and they were served NOT hot. My omelet was very thick and looked like it was baked. The ingredients were laid inside the folded omelet. We ordered the famous cinnamon roll. It was hard (many days old) not warmed and served with an overwhelming amount of frosting. I would give this restaurant a rating of zero. The coffee was like tea in strength. We ordered the $15 French press Kona too. After allowing it to sit for 5 minutes it was still so weak. Our bill was $144!!! Horrible service and food. read more

Great food! Great service!! Beautiful ambiance! I ordered the Kona omelet with sourdough toast and it was delicious . Also, their homemade mango and strawberry jelly is top tier. If you're in the area you should definitely check this place out! read more

Kona Craft Cafe - Kona omelet - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Very good service, atmosphere and location. Food was tasty and will be back again. Parking a bit sparse.

This was our first time coming to the restaurant. I had called Sunday morning at 8:30 to make reservation for brunch for 11. I was able to get reservation for a party of 6 for inside seats. Our waitress was helpful and accommodating. Everything on the menu looks so delicious . Also we ordered extra sides, besides our meals (waffles, beignets and biscuits w/gravy). We had to wait for the ice tea and strawberry mango lemonade to be made. We look forward to coming back again when we are in town. We were able to get a parking spot after driving the parking lot was full. We just waited a few minutes. read more

Ate here for Saturday brunch. The food was fantastic and the service was attentive. Don't sleep on the country fried steak!

Coffee is terrible. It's watery and weak. Ordered pastries they were dry and stale. Breakfast was really underwhelming. Service is slow. Would not return. read more

Ya this place was not good... my friends and I came here and ordered some cocktails and brunch plates hoping for some Hawaiian inspired food. Instead, we were disappointed with almost everything. I ordered the eggs Benedict with hash browns and I kid you not... the hash browns tasted like crayon. I had my friends try it and they all said the same thing and that it was as if the hash browns were freezer burned. The spam musubi was not spam, the mimosas were not cocktails but pure Prosecco, and everything just lacked flavor. We left the restaurant buzzed and very disappointed, especially with the price of the bill we paid. Service was great though. read more

Loved the food and the pastry. Had lots of homemade baked goods. The waitress was so personable and made the experience a lot more fun. I would definitely go back. read more

Sat and waited for 10 mins. No one came over. All the servers laughing and hanging out.

Wouldn't return. Everything we ordered was either just alright or really bad. The coffee is incredibly weak and tasted terrible. It actually looked watery. It tasted like when you forget to change out the day old Keruig pod and accidentally press brew. Even the Kona French press we ordered came out cold and weak. We ordered the apple cinnamon roll and it was so dry, hard, and stale. It was actually inedible. Out of the 5 of us, two people found foreign objects in their food. Potatoes came out burnt. Things were soggy. The Benedict and French toast were the only passable decent plates. The service was extremely slow despite it being a slow weekday morning. Waitress seemed inexperienced and confused the whole time. We all left extremely disappointed, especially for the price. read more