My friends were meeting to discuss going hiking and thought it would make sense to «eat healthy». I just tagged along as a good sport, not imagining how wonderful this entire experience was going to be… Prior to this, I had never heard of this place. I had them spell out the name and figure out the location and where to park. I decided on convenience and chose the covered parking at the Banyon Tree Plaza(on the corner of Punahou and Beretania Street) for a flat rate of $ 2. Just pay up front and the lady at the guard shack will give you a hang tag which you return at the end of your visit. When I walked to the front door, I was really happy to see my friends, but then I got scared because the sign on at the entrance read, «Volcanic Climbing & Fitness Gym». I thought that they were trying to trick me! They told me that we were having Acai Bowls — no exercise!!! hahaha! They explained that inside the former Punahou Spa is a window where we will order our«meal» and just watch people climb(it’s really interesting)! Okay — I can do that! The couple that run the shop are very friendly, helpful and efficient! I watched the woman cut the fresh fruit with precision and place everything artistically in layers in each bowl. She used gloves and patiently arranged the mango, bananas, strawberries, coconut flakes and honey on the granola and pitaya to create a Paradise Bowl! It was so yummy that I wanted to try another concoction, but my friends were ready for the next foodie stop, so… I will be back to have a Bowlder Bowl or an Arch Bowl(with a scoop of Haupia Sorbet)… maybe even a smoothie! Remember to check in on your Unilocal app for 10 percent off! Enjoy!
Anastasha S.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Honolulu, HI
Would I come back here again? Probably not. Would I recommend this for you to try? Yes! So why would I not come back? This place was alright! I live out on the east side of Oahu and this location was closer to town, I didn’t find my acai bowl worth the drive. I got the poi bowl, which is not on the menu, and it’s basically the caveman topped with Haupia sorbet and whey protein. I did like knowing it was packed with extra protein! The other bowls on the menu seem tasty as well. If you’re an avid acai bowl eater like me, then you will know that there’s different types of acai blends including plain acai sorbet(not blended with any additional juices, fruits, or veggies). Personally, I like the acai sorbet option which is not available at this location, but for everything like a typical acai bowl should have… this place has it! It was a bit tricky to find, literally you are pulling up into an apartments complex with volcanic gym at the base of the apartment unit. It’s $ 2 parking but just ask Volcanic gym to give you a stamp and you’re good to go. Great service, typical Acai bowls, whey protien for my protein munching friends! Other than that, it’s A — OK! Would I dub it THEEBEST as my fellow reviewers have mentioned? No. Is it WORTH trying if you’re in the area? Yes of course!
Sheena B.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Malibu, CA
Yay for new Acai bowl places! I’ve been hearing good things about Arch Café and finally got to swing by today. We tried the Caveman, Jungle, and Bowlder bowls. Jungle was my fave! But they were all really yummy and very prettily made. Still trying to decide if I like this Roots Acai versus sambazon though. Great friendly service(: will be back!
Brandon Y.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
This is my new favorite Acai Bowl spot! They’re located in the Volcanic Fitness and Climbing gym at the corner of Punahou and Beretania. The Diamond Head Cove Mana Bowl used to be my favorite but Arch Café just blows it away. The acai is blended and the granola and honey are layered throughout the bowl so you don’t get stuck with plain acai when you get to the bottom. They also do smoothies and salads if you want to get something besides an acai bowl. What to get: Poi Bowl — This is not on the menu but it’s a Caveman Bowl with Haupia Sorbet and Vanilla Whey Protein. It sort of has the taste of a sweetened poi. Haupia Sorbet — This comes with the Arch Bowl but you can add it to any bowl that you get.
Amara E.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
The owners who used to run Aloha Bowls, an acai bowl food truck, are back with a shop front inside Volcanic Climbing & Fitness Gym! They have a strong emphasis on quality and presentation. Every time I’ve ordered something from here, it’s been both beautiful and delicious. They have unique made-to-order acai bowls using Roots acai(not Sambazon) and include unusual ingredients like pitaya, mango and haupia sorbet! My personal favorite is the Caveman bowl because it’s the most traditional, but the signature Arch bowl and Bowlder bowl are both delicious! Coffee is from Morning Glass and is always a good pick-me-up before a workout. This café is not your run-of-the-mill acai bowl shop. They’ve got a cool take on acai, friendly staff and amazing presentation. Try them today!
Chelsea G.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
This is a really refreshing and delightful place for healthy snacking options, especially after a workout in the Volcanic Rock Gym! I have tried the following items: — Rise Smoothie(Pitaya, Waiola Coconut Water, Banana, Dried Coconut Flakes, Pineapple & Mango): This was my favorite smoothie of the two I have tried from them. If you like pitaya, this is a really great option for nutrition, and hydration. The dried coconut flakes added a very interesting, and surprisingly nice texture to the smoothie. While the bananas added a creamy and sweet flavor, it was nicely balanced by the tart taste of the pitaya, and the acidity of the pineapple juice. — Buddha’s Belly Smoothie(Apple, «Ho Farms» Kale, Spinach, Raw Cacao, Almond Milk & Almond Butter): This smoothie was also very good, however the texture was a bit surprising and not as appealing to me personally. There is quite a bit of substance to this smoothie, which would make it a great meal replacement. You can certainly feel good about drinking this smoothie with the greens supplying fiber, antioxidants, and a host of other vitamins. All the while also filling you with carbs from the raw cacao, and protein from the almond milk & butter. — Caveman Acai Bowl(Roots Acai, Strawberry, Banana, and Apple Juice. Topped with granola, banana, strawberry, blueberry & raw bee pollen): Acai bowls have become a very popular food find recently, and I can confidently say that this is definitely one to try. Not only do these bowls look beautiful, they are so refreshing and delicious. The acai mixture is well rounded with the addition of the strawberry, banana, and apple juice. Then the granola, fruits, and bee pollen add a lovely contrast, texture, and freshness to the entire experience. mmm! Staff: They individuals working in this little café are certainly one of the top contributing factors, I mean besides the wonderful acai bowls, that keep me coming back. It is always such a wonderful experience when you encounter people that seem to really enjoy what they do. Price: Nothing on their menu costs more than $ 10.50, which I think is wonderfully competitive pricing for what you get. So worth every penny in my opinion. Overall, a great new addition to the healthy food scene in Oahu!
Alexander G.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
Looking for one of the best and pretties acai bowls in Honolulu? Arch Café not only delivers, but also has an amazingly friendly staff and simple atmosphere to go with it! Arch Café is located inside Volcanic Climbing and Fitness along Beretania right off of Punahou. Despite only having paid parking, the temporary parking stalls can be used to grab a quick bowl to-go! The gym has climbing walls in addition to normal equipment; the café is located on the main floor right inside the entrance. It is clean and new. The staff was amazingly friendly, both to share the gym and café. They are definitely trying to get a quality customer base, and I will certainly be back for more bowls! I’ve tried two different ones so far: the Paradise bowl of Pitaya fruit, banana, coconut shavings, strawberries, and delicious honey; and the Bowlder bowl which was acai based and irresistible because of the mint! Both were so refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness. Each bowl was made with perfection, attention was paid not only to flavor, but also layering and appearance of the flower top. This is a must-try acai bowl!
Niki N.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Mililani, HI
So glad that place is located right across of my work. You can never go wrong with a big bowl of acai, especially on a hot summer day. Craving for something refreshing and fresh? Arch café is the place to come! I ordered the arch bowl, this one comes with a scoop of haupia sorbet on top. I didn’t think I would like it but it went so well with the acai. It added a little more sweetness to the acai. I’m not a big fan of coconut flakes(I know totally weird) but they were able to substitute it with fresh strawberries at no extra charge! I also came one day to try their bubble drinks. They have my most favorite flavor ever, taro. It comes milk tea style. Yum! The staff is so friendly and works very hard to make sure their customers are satisfied and takes the time to make their bowls are built to perfection. I would suggest calling your order in if you don’t plan on eating it there. The only think I wish they had were different sizes of the acai bowl. There is only one size, so great for sharing unless you have a big appetite. If not, there’s always room for left overs!
Tyler Y.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ewa Beach, HI
Loved the acai bowl! I ordered the Caveman Bowl and added on toasted coconut flakes and haupia sorbet.($ 0.75 for the coconut flakes, and $ 2.00 for the sorbet). The bowl itself was $ 8.50. I was surprised to find granola and honey at the bottom of the bowl, and it was still crunchy! I love granola… Lol. The acai had a nice taste. Loved the cute layout of the strawberries and bananas. The bowl itself is pretty big. It filled me up for the rest of the day. Will definitely come back the next time I’m on this side of the island :)
Jenel O.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Waipahu, HI
I love myself a good acai bowl! And I found a fantastic one at Arch Café located inside of the Volcanic Rock Gym. I tried their Caveman bowl which has acai, strawberries, bananas and apple juice blended then topped with granola, bananas, strawberries and bee pollen. The bowl was $ 8.50 and is a work of art — it’s so beautiful the way they lay out all of the fruits. Parking for Arch Café is located at the Banyan Tree building on the corner of Punahou and Beretania. It’s $ 2 if you’re going to Arch Café. Note that Arch«Café» isn’t too much of a café in the way of tables and chairs. There are a few stools to sit on as well as a few chairs in a more waiting room area but don’t expect to see small tables around. Service was friendly and fast. I would come back but sure how often considering the parking adds on to your bowl price so it’s a pretty pricey bowl after adding it together.
Ariana M.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
GENIUS. What a great idea putting an acai place inside the gym! Who wouldn’t want one of these after a hard workout. This totally hits the spot. The workers here were all great and friendly. The acai bowls take some time to make, but they are totally worth the wait. [[ KONGSMOOTHIE $ 5.00 ]] This smoothie is made with bana, peanut butter, almond milk, chocolate whey protein [[ ARCHACAIBOWL $ 10.50 ]] This acai bowl is filled with acai, waiola coconut water, mango, and banana’s. Topped with granola, banana, pineapple, mango, one scoop haupia sorbet, honey and toasted coconut flakes. The two items I got to try were both AMAZING. I definitely will be back to try more items on the menu.
Taryn L.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
A hidden gem amongst gym equipment and rock climbing wall is a small window/nook that is known as Arch Café. Arch Café, as the name would suggest, offers coffee, which is individually brewed to perfection(they offer Morning Glass coffee). But, what they are known for and what drew me to this place was their acai bowls. It is AMAZING. I heard about them from Facebook and a well placed sign on Punahou Street. I’ve only tried their Caveman bowl, but it is so good it has made me a believer! I am addicted to it, so I don’t veer from it. The Caveman bowl is the perfect blend of acai, strawberries, bananas, and apple juice — it’s cold(perfect for the summer heat of Hawaii) and sweet. The bowl is artfully crafted — with the layer of granola and honey on the bottom of the bowl with a layer of granola on top of the acai mixture, there is a very nice texture, a crunch, to the acai bowl. Of course, this bowl is topped with fresh fruits(strawberries, bananas, and blueberries) that are beautifully arranged on top of the granola that is on top of the acai mix. Then, there is a drizzle of honey on top of that. It truly is a work of art. I also like to add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes to the bowl for a little more texture. It is the perfect meal after a hike or just to eat something that is a great compliment for this summer heat. The customer service here is great too! It’s a two man team, from what I’ve seen. The guy that takes your order also blends the acai mix. I’ve visited often enough where they recognize me and always make small talk. There is a woman that puts the bowl together; she’s the artist that makes sure the bowl is arranged to look as good as it tastes.
Nadia K.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Mililani, HI
I love trying new acai places and I heard great things about the bowls at Arch Café inside of Volcanic Rock Gym. First off, the entrance to parking at the Banyan Tree Plaza building is off of South Beretania. You can get validated parking for $ 2 or some people just pull up in front of the gym. They have quite a few acai bowl variations to choose from and even ones topped with haupia sorbet. Yum! But I was in the mood for your classic acai bowl so I ordered the caveman and it was delicious! A bonus is that they serve Stumptown coffee so I got an iced coffee as well. They also have boba drinks on the menu! I can’t wait to come back to try all the different acai bowls. Very excited about this new place!
Aubry A.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Waipahu, HI
This place was hard to find. Especially if it says on Unilocal that it’s «Hot and New» they definitely need to put a sign up so other people can find it. Anyways, so I had to turn around 2 times just to find this place. My GPS kept telling me it was next to Shriners Hospital, but next to it was a closed garage that you would probably need to have permission to get into. We finally found this place and it was at the corner of that street. Acai bowls were alright. It wasn’t too sweet, but this is probably the biggest acai bowl I’ve eaten. We got The Bowlder bowl, which costed $ 9 each and they give a really generous amount. Maybe I’ll be back to try a different bowl if I’m around town side again.
Amy Y.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Honolulu, HI
I been reading a lot of good reviews for here. Acai bowls are my thing. Unexpectedly, we came here for an acai bowl snack. It’s located inside this Volcanic building across from Central Union Chapel. There’s a mini gym and rock climbing inside. I ordered the arch bowl $ 11, and shared it with my boyfriend. There was a haupia sorbet on top and toasted coconuts. It was good! It wasn’t too sweet, but it was really filling. I love the toasted coconut flakes. It was really crispy. Mmmm…~ There’s a lot of other flavor bowls but only one size. I thought it was kinda pricey for an acai bowl. It was worth a try for a new acai bowl in town.
Doreen R.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Pearl City, HI
The bomb!!! I saw a review on Olena’s FB site and just couldn’t resist and had to make it there this weekend to try out their bowls. At first finding the place was a bit challenging but moreso the parking… especially when the vehicle you drive can’t fit in most parking garages… uggg. No problem, we parked next door.(shhh, @Foodland). Anyway, walked in and was amazed at the rock climbing wall. The guy in the front that greets you is very personable and will try to win you over by doing a climb session… sorry no luck with us(well, not today at least, maybe in the future). We looked at the menu to decide what we were going to have but already knew I was going to try the Paradise Pitaya bowl… let me just say, A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!! I also ordered hot coffee(great brew!) and devoured everything while watching the climbers. My tummy was satisfied and ready for the day! I will highly recommend anyone looking for a great Acai bowl to check them out as I am definitely returning to try the others!
Eric Robert R.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Manoa, Honolulu, HI
Wow! This place rocks! ROCKS! And it’s not just because you have the option for indoor Rock Climbing too, since this little café(more like a window) is snugly located in Volcanic Climbing & Fitness… ARCHCAFEHONOLULU! Offering the tastiest combos of «Fruit Bowls» & «Fruit Drinks». Yup, If you’re the«Fruity-type» of person you’ll love it here! I think I’m in love! Stop with the«here we go again, Eric» whispers and *rolling of the eyes* — I truly am in LOVE! Love is in the air! Of course, if you know me by now(and many of you do)… You know I’m talking FRUIT! I love fruit in all shapes and sizes(minus the stinky Durian) and I ADORE Acai bowls! I’ve been covering Acai bowls since well before it became a hipster meal! So, every-time a new place pops up or is resurrected I have to check it out! In fact, I have a Acai bowl list going that is long overdue in updating! Recently, I noticed a few friends checking into this new place. Just really didn’t know what it was about until I saw a photo on my IG feed with the hashtags… #Acaibowl #Pitayabowl #Rockclimbing #ArchCafeHonolulu Sounds like my type of place! So, it’s another hot and humid day in Honolulu and I have a few hours to spare and guess what? I’m craving FRUIT! I remember Amara & Talor checking in here the other day, I’m in the Punahou area, and I remember that mouth-watering Acai bowl photo on Instagram! I NEED. I WANT. I HEALTHY. As stated in tips and a few reviews you can park in that funny loop at Banyan Tree Plaza provided it’s a pickup order. You may park inside for $ 2 but why? Street metered parking in the area can be found too. Or, be creative with a very known grocery store parking lot in the area. Ahem. Parking is not an issue for me, so after I park, I enter under the awning screaming«Volcanic!» Note: don’t expect a Starbucks atmosphere or fancy lunch spot — it’s not! It’s basically a juice bar window in a gym! That’s it! I notice the menu like 10-feet high haha! Remember it’s in a Rock Climbing Gym! Fortunately the writing is large and clear, and very artistic I may add! After a moment I am approached by the young, fit, tanned cashier and politely asked if I needed help, of course I’m already thinking Acai or Pitaya bowl. So I’m easy, Hmm. Or, did she mean if I needed help climbing? Oh. I notice the«Paradise» bowl and really dug everything in it… So I order that! The fit cashier says«yumm» and explains how that’s her FAV too! So, after a few minutes… my «Paradise» bowl is ready! Immediately I sense it will be delicious! Seriously, it was like looking at Angelina Jolie in her prime! I’m talking«Paradise»… Anyways, after a few pics and selfies, I decide to dig-in and the first bite was a BAM! YUM! WOW! Absolutely delicious! The combination of Pitaya(Dragon Fruit) w/Waiola Coconut Water, Fresh Granola, Mango, Strawberries, Pineapple, Bananas, Coconut Shavings, Honey, and topped with Raw Bee Pollen… WOW! MOUTHGASM! Oh yes! I definitely recommend… ARCHCAFEHONOLULU! I’m only speaking for the«Paradise» bowl($ 9.97 after taxes) I devoured, but that alone impressed the«fruity endorphins» out of me! I look forward to trying the other«fruity» bowls and smoothies here… Coffee(iced or hot) from«Morning Glass» is a delicious option! Heck, I can’t wait til next time! Lastly, how did it stack up on my infamous«Acai» list? Let’s just say my favorite«Diamond Head Cove Health Bar» has a run for the top crown… Maybe next time I’ll climb that rock, too… Join me? OVERALLGRADE: 4.5-STARS! UnilocalREVIEW #473/500
Kristine C.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
Have you had one of those days when you’re just feeling down and not a single category of food sounded edible? To me not even the thought of a nice juicy loco moco or sushi from a highly recommended place even sounded appealing to the stomach or my palette. At this moment in time, I was being too picky, or I was expecting some kind of food genius to make me something out of the ordinary that didn’t fall into any food category. I didn’t lose hope. Thank goodness for businesses like Arch Café Honolulu. A little information on Arch Café Honolulu They were formerly known as Aloha Bowls until the disappearance of their truck. If you remember some kind of a traveling truck that sold AMAZING fresh acai bowls and the name rings a bell, here’s your sign(yes they were on Keeaumoku too!). Kenny and Kahea are the dynamic duo that kept Aloha Bowls alive and now have given birth to Arch Café Honolulu as the predecessor. They’re now located off of S. Beretania street and Punahou street. inside Volcanic Climbing & Fitness gym. So come say hi, show some support and congratulate them. They are amazing! Parking Going back to when I said I was feeling down and I was being too picky. Yes, until I decided it’s time to try this place hidden inside a gym somewhere. Getting here was a journey. First, don’t be a fool like me. I say that because parking was so hard to find! Don’t let the sign«Residental Parking» steer you off from finding this hidden gem. If you see that sign off of S beretania street, drive into the drive way until you see a white sign to your right saying«Welcome to the Banyan Tree Plaza Garage». Let the parking attendant know you are there for the Arch Café Honolulu/gym and she will gladly give you a ticket. Get your parking validated(only pay $ 2) if you’re staying a while. Otherwise, you’re allowed to park at the loading zone(yellow curb) to pick up your order if you decide to call it in(give and take 10 – 15 minutes for them to make). The Bowl Kahea had mentioned that people always felt so refreshed after a nice cold smoothie and get hungry after a nice work out. I believe it! Their menu is simple and straight to the point. Aside from a good selection of acai bowls, they also have Boba drinks, smoothies, coffee by Morning Glass(iced or hot), some other assorted beverages. I knew I was hungry but I didn’t want to have an actual traditional acai bowl. I’ve decided on the Paradise bowl. The Paradise consisted of pitaya, Waiola coconut water, banana, mango, and pineapple. Topped with granola, banana, local mango, honey, raw bee pollen & dried coconut flakes. You can do some add ons as well for a tiny extra(sorbet, and protein) They come in a 20oz bowl and this is more than enough to get you going. Why and how does their acai bowls stand out? I enjoyed how the bowl is freshly blended as you order them and are not pre-frozen from the night before, The granola is not only on the top but are layered on the bottom and is mixed well with honey. The pitaya/acai is not soupy at the first dip of your spoon. They are freshly sliced fruits which are nicely placed on the very top of the bowl and are layered(a great amount of fruits) on all acai bowl choices. If other places can charge close to $ 10 on their non freshly made bowls, Arch Café Honolulu has earned that right to charge close to the same. The flavors will dance in your mouth until the very last bite and it’s worth every penny. You can say that I was more than content with my choice and I’m looking forward to trying others in the menu. I will have to emphasize that it’s the best acai bowl I’ve had on the island. Hands down. I’m just glad I’ve found the long lost Aloha Bowls which has now been reborn as Arch Café Honolulu. @ArchCafeHonolulu(IG) and Arch Café Honolulu(FB) I’m a pretty big fan.
Angel R.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ala Moana, Honolulu, HI
Ever since I joined the Volcanic Climbing & Fitness gym, I wanted to try the acai bowls here. So I tried the Jungle Bowl. Acai blended with kale and spinach. There’s honey on the bottom and the top of the bowl with granola in the middle. Omg it was so good. Not your typical sweet acai bowl because the kale and spinach adds a little different flavor and made it lighter, and healthier! Best acai bowl I’ve had since… Ever! There are also smoothies and boba drinks which I have yet to try! Anyways this is a really great place to get an acai bowl or other healthy options after a workout from rock climbing or even after the relaxing shower or sauna session! I can’t wait to try the other acai bowls and smoothies! :) keep up the great work Arch Café!!!
Justin H.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Honolulu, HI
What the what! Literally the best acai bowls you’ll ever in Hawaii, hands down. Arch’s acai bowls will make the other acai bowls you’ve had taste like they were made a salad bar’s leftovers. Arch’s acai bowls are made with pride and quality ingredients. I didn’t throw«pride» in there to sound cheesy. The bowl doesn’t just come to you in a photo-worthy presentation(which it totally does); it comes assembled to make sure it’s tasty from beginning to end. For example, my favorite — The Caveman has honey drizzled over the strawberries and blueberries atop the bowl to get the party started. Granola under them to add a nice crunch to the acai. When you get to the bottom, there’s a layer of more granola with honey under it! It’s awesome! Why has no one else done this? The ingredients are noticeably fresh and did I fail to mention the bowl itself is big! Bigger than a baby’s head? Depends on the baby. Big enough to share? Hell yes, but it so good you won’t want to. The café is located in Volcanic’s new gym in Town. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not into gyms — nobody will judge you:). Get your bowl and watch people on the climbing wall. Who knows, maybe you’ll be inclined to jump on!