Da HI Brew — Restaurant in Honolulu

I would have just left it alone and not left a review but the way it was handled was pretty disappointing.... Picking your nose WHILE making someones food WITHOUT gloves is disgusting and NEVER ok. In the 30 we were there I watched 2 other people walk out with food that had snot on it. Hindsight, I should've warned them but I was struggling enough trying to get up the nerve to say something about my own $67 purchase. Our waffle was made and handled by the girl actively picking her nose so I knew for sure we weren't eating that. The other girl was eating while making food for someone (I couldn't see what it was so I don't know if that was ours or someone else's but she licked her fingers multiple times while making the food for a customer. The avocado toast seemed to be safe as it was made by the person I'm assuming was the owner (an older woman). She was wearing one glove the entire time. Just as she was finishing, she took off her glove (coughed into her elbow), then wiped her nose with her wrist. They had two other customers in the restaurant at the time so I politely asked her to step outside with me. I told her what I witnessed with the nose picking (because I was trying to be nice and not call it literally everyone working there) and told her we didn't feel comfortable eating and would like a refund and that they could keep the food. She went back into the store and told the one girl to put gloves on immediately. (She was in the process of making someone else's food). She whispered something else. The girl turned around and glared at me. The manager offered me a $34 refund trying to only take off money for what the girl picking her nose made.... I commented on the fact that it didn't seem right considering we had just spent 30 minutes, and now needed to find another place to eat. She clearly doesn't think sanitation or customer service is a big concern because she handed me $34... So we walked out and went to Goofys! So so so worth it!! Skip this place for sure! 🤢

Edited in response to add I have absolutely nothing to gain in giving a dishonest review. There's literally NO reason for me to lie or embellish anything. I have nothing to lose here so, no, nothing is fabricated. I said you coughed in your elbow because you did. And THEN you wiped your nose on your wrist. As the THIRD separate person, and the owner, to put your bodily fluids on our food, I finally decided I needed to say something and poorly pull you outside, *quietly, to not make a scene in front of your other customers. I never once rolled my eyes. I was completely kind, and even apologized for not wanting to take the food, not did I argue when you only offered to give us less than half (and not our tip back either). I simply said I was surprised you wouldn't comp us the coffee after something so gross.

I would NEVER roll my eyes at someone. I'm not that person. We don't roll our eyes or talk poorly about people in my family. Nor do we use the rude words you used in your response. Look at all my previous reviews. 99% of my reviews are positive and supportive. ESPECIALLY for local businesses. I ALMOST left your shop without saying anything at all and just throwing away the food we purchased outside out of respect. Now, I'm glad I got at least some of my money and I'm SUPER glad I left a review so you could show your true colors even brighter. Congrats!

A good business owner would've written back to a review and said, "I can't apologize enough for your experience. I have addressed it with my staff and we will make sure this doesn't happen again. Again, I'm so sorry. As a local owned business we want to make sure our customers receive the best quality and that is not what we provided you today. Mahalo, and I wish you the best on the rest of your trip."

I'd likely pull down my review if I had received a response that showed some sort of remorse for the truly disgusting acts that happened from 3 employees in one visit. Instead now we have...

Title: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Taste of Coffee Nirvana at Da Hi Brew Waikiki

Da Hi Brew Waikiki is not just a coffee shop; it's a tranquil retreat for the soul. As a seasoned traveler on a quest for the ultimate coffee experience, I've journeyed far and wide, only to discover that one of the best cups can be found right here, in the heart of Waikiki. This chilled-out, laid-back coffee haven is more than just a place to get your caffeine fix – it's a celebration of the coffee craft, set to the soundtrack of soothing, chill music that perfectly complements the relaxing atmosphere.

Upon entering Da Hi Brew, you're immediately enveloped in an ambiance that exudes relaxation and comfort. The décor strikes a perfect balance between stylish modernity and cozy warmth, creating an inviting space where you can unwind and recharge. With seating that encourages you to stay a while, you'll find yourself melting into the island's slower pace of life.

The coffee at Da Hi Brew is nothing short of exceptional. They honor the local landscape by sourcing their beans from the region's finest growers, showcasing the unique characteristics of Hawaii's rich volcanic terroir. Each cup of coffee served here is a masterpiece, boasting a flavor profile that's robust yet velvety, complex yet perfectly balanced. It's a brew so memorable that it lingers on your palate, urging you to savor every note.

Pairing beautifully with their world-class coffee are the homemade eats crafted within Da Hi Brew's kitchen. Each dish is prepared with the same meticulous care as their beverages, ensuring that whether you're in the mood for a light snack or a hearty meal, your food will be a fresh, flavorful, and fitting companion to your drink.

But what truly sets Da Hi Brew apart is the people behind the counter. Kory, in particular, is a barista who embodies the spirit of the place. With every coffee she prepares, Kory goes above and beyond to ensure it's made with precision and love. Her commitment to excellence and her warm interactions with customers add an invaluable layer to the Da Hi Brew experience, making every visit feel personal and cherished.

In summary, Da Hi Brew Waikiki is a gem among coffee shops, a place where the coffee is revered, the food is made with care, and the vibe is perpetually chill. It stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of a good brew. For anyone looking for a coffee spot that feels like a home away from home, Da Hi Brew is the pinnacle, a must-visit that will redefine your...

Continuing on my path to knock out those bucket list places I've tagged on Yelp before departing Island. Da HI Brew hits the spot! Da HI Brew adjoins the Equus hotel and doubles as a bar at night (courtesy of the barista). Da HI Brew is a cozy spot up a flight of stairs right off of the street in Waikiki. It is close enough to my hotel, and the food is good enough where I might knock this place out one or two more times before I depart. The vibe is awesome, the barista was awesome, the chill reggae music was awesome. I ordered a large iced americano (mainly because the iced comes in 20oz and a 4th shot). The bacon bagel w/ cheddar stuck out to me and after a quick description from the barista, I ordered one. It is an everything bagel with stacks of bacon and layered with cheddar; she downplayed the amount of bacon and cheddar and it was better than I expected. Imagine unicorns jumping from rainbows that end in massive pots of gold... yeah, most excellent. If there is a place that inspires happy feelings and fun, it...