After seven years in the food service industry working for an international coffee retailer, Kristie Lo knew exactly what it would take to open and operate her own coffee bar. She opened Cafenity in the Topa Financial Center in February 2012, drawing curious customers that soon became loyal regulars. Lo’s secret is simple—she serves the freshest coffees and teas, prepares baked goods, sandwiches and salads that are as healthy as they are delicious and initiates friendly, daily interactions with her guests.
“The beans make the difference,” says Lo, who sources her coffee beans exclusively from Ka‘u Coffee on the Big Island and small estate farmers in Kona. The beans are roasted weekly to ensure the freshness and flavor of every cup brewed. House specialties include the cafe mocha, featuring Lo’s secret recipe of cocoa powder, vanilla whipped cream and dark chocolate sauce, and Cafenity’s traditional and rich Americano.
Lo’s keen attention to detail is apparent in the shop’s selection of gourmet teas. She sources her teas locally from The Tea Farm and Mana Tea, offering five distinct organic herbal blends. Lo says her matcha latte is a crowd favorite.
Try This Pair your morning beverage with turkey or smoked salmon cheese bread, baked in house and warmed to soft, pull-apart perfection. For a crunchy pairing, try the tomato, mozzarella and basil flatbread.
