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Categories: Coffee & Tea, Shopping
Neighborhood: UptownWilson (Red)
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If you keep walking, you'll pass it up being that it's in the garden of a large apartment building. Walk in and you enter another world of chill 'n cozy African culture: Kahawa (meaning Coffee) House. The owner is the best part. He's super friendly, helpful during decision making (gosh I hate decisions) and most of all, very proud of his homeland...and it shows!
Other than just coffee, tea and smoothies, you're limited to only sandwiches...but they're not what you'd find at Panera or Corner Bakery but instead are infused with African flavors (see business images for a picture of the menu). I enjoyed the KuKu Na Narzi (try saying that three times!) which was fresh chopped chicken, carrots, celery and almonds coated in a light curry and coconut milk sauce. Only $4.99+tax and that includes chips too! Super reasonable! Lightly sweet and delicious, plus healthy! All sandwich names are Swahili-based too for all those linguistic lovers. As for the coffee drinks they have cute names like Barack O'Caramel Mocha or Kiss 'N Tell Mocha. If you're not in the mood for tea or coffee, they offer fresh fruit smoothies which are just what they sound: fresh fruit with water. I enjoyed the Strawberry but you can mix 'n match.
Not only does Kahawa have free Wi-Fi, but they just installed a 55" HD TV. The owner sells Whole 100% Cotton African Scarves for $25 too so be sure to check them out. Don't just leave as an intellect but a culturally fashionable intellect! Oh and $5.00 minimum on plastic (otherwise .50 cent charge).
Hmm, it's alright. It reminded me of being in a college dorm. The tables were hard and a *little* wobbly. Bob Marley was playing softly overhead. I was more fixated on the fruit fly buzzing my head than the task before me. I don't know. I just didn't connect with this place.
And I also didn't get any coffee. Dunh dunh duuhhh!!! Yep, I came to a coffee lounge and didn't partake of the bean. I ordered a mango smoothie (watery and sorta forgettable) and a sandwich. I think the sandwich was the # 2 (/12 year old laughter). Order this. It was very tasty, filling and comforting. I can see this being a go-to sandwich during colder weather. But, you can order it to go. As airy, friendly (the guy behind the register is VERY nice - and into bopping to good music) and accommodating (free wi-fi) as this place is, I can't imagine ever feeling the compulsion to come here again. It's fine. But, I've had better. I look blah in beige (/puffs on cigarette).
Despite it's mild entrance, Kahawa offers more than just coffee to perk you up!
AJ makes you feel at home instantly, a much needed change from the frowning chain coffee shop baristas.
Treat folks here like family and you'll get the same feeling in return.
The drinks are pretty reliable, some are named off-the-wall, like the Barack O'Caramel Mocha or Gov. Sanford Take-two-to-mango.
I generally come here for company and laughs. Thursday nights are good. People generally come here to socialize more so than to work.
Good coffee, good sandwiches and free wi-fi. How can anything get better. The seating is nice and comfy. Must check it out
I've walked by this place a tonn of times on my way to Jewel or the gym. I finally decided to stop and and see whats up. The guy behind the counter was so friendly - I felt like I made a new friend in 2 mins flat :) I will definitely be back and check out the sandwiches that looked so good. Plus they have a big TV and live music - seems like anytime you'd go in there something would be going on. Perfect little neighborhood coffee shop for Buena Park!
If I could give this place 9 stars, I would.
Well, maybe 8.5 stars--they're out of ham, so I couldn't try the Hakuna Matata Panini (isn't THAT fun to say) that Colleen C. recommended. Ah, well--there's so much more to love:
1. The Thanksgiving turkey sandwich (panini with bird, cranberry, lettuce, and garden-fresh tomato) is fantastic, and perfectly panini'ed (I don't like when they're toasted so long the bread turns hard and brittle--or so little it's still mushy)
2. I asked for water and got a big-ass mug, not a little dinky cup. I likes me some water.
3. I'm typing this review while still in the cafe. Why? FREE WI-FI. That kicks so much ass I can't stand it.
4. Reggae music is, like, PERFECT working music. I did find the rastafarian minor-key version of "Johnny B. Goode" a tad bit distracting, though still awesome.
5. While it's not going on now, there's poetry, music, and other entertainment on some nights. I love that the city still has room for coffee houses that offer up culture and community, not just CD compilations and cookie-cutter corporatism (I love alliteration).
I'll come back for coffee someday--today, I've already had four cups, and I'm practically vibrating, so I'd better restrain myself.
I was craving a mocha hardcore this morning and figured I'd be a swell girlfriend and pick up a latte for my girlfriend as well, so I braved this end-of-March snowstorm for some caffeinated goodness with my pups.
After walking a couple of blocks towards Dollop (my usual go-to coffee place in Buena Park), I gave up and stopped by Kahawa for the first time. I've walked past it every day since it opened, so I figured it was about time to give it a shot.
The guy at the counter (no idea how to spell it, but he pronounced his name "Campaign") was crazy friendly. As he mixed up my drinks we talked about the struggles of opening a coffee shop (he said things are looking up for them!), how long I've had my dog (who was patiently waiting right outside), and everything in between. He told me all about Thursday night open mics with poetry, spoken word, music, African dance, etc etc, that I'll definitely try to stop by for.
The coffees were pretty good too. My mocha was a little sweeter than I prefer, but definitely a solid 8 out of 10, and my girlfriend said her latte was perfect (sweet, brownie points for me, thanks Kahawa!). He also offered me a coffee carrier without me having to ask, which while walking a crazy, energetic dog is a God-send. It's the little things in life, people.
I will definitely be back... I may have found my new workspace since there seemed to be ample table space, chill music in the background, and a laid-back vibe. Word on the street is they have free wi-fi and kick-ass sandwiches too... All reasons for me to return!
Ah, it's the Hakuna Matata (yes, no worries) Sandwich. #7.
With a Diet Coke. And a chai.
It's just, the perfect afternoon...really.
Just wanted to clear that up :)
Yay! A newish Buena Park coffee spot!
Urban Tea Lounge (RIP) is no more, but Kahawa is better...in my…
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It's atypical. Which is good. It's authentic and genuine. Which is good. It has the BEST iced tea I can remember, which is wonderful. Our panini style sandwiches were excellent. And it's got the "neighbor- friendly" vibe that is hard to find in a big city. It has a sort of oasis feel to it, with wonderful music and the owner who served us had a caring attitude and is an excellent conversationalist, should that be your thing.
The coffee will brace you up, and the atmosphere will mellow you out. If a place like this cannot do well, it says something alarming about our society. Be part of this.
You'll love Kahawa House! Uptown couldn't have a better place to be, relax, socialize, and feel welcome all at the same time. . It's every bit comfort in an uncomfortable world. Make sure you try the Barack O Caramel.. it's smart and delish :)
Oh, and be sure to come on Thursday nights, just came back from an Open Mic. The talent was AWESOME. You will not be disappointed!
One of my favorite neighborhood places. It's a little bit hidden, so you have to keep your eyes open for it.
Coffee, Kenyan-fusion paninis, hilarious conversations with AJay and Valinda, and free wi-fi. What more could you ask for?
These people have become some of my favorite people to visit even though I'm not in there as much as they'd like me to be - haha.
Also, the prices are pretty spectacular. They give you fairly large sizes of things for cheap. Bagels, muffins, pastries are also available at the front counter.
In the same space as the defunct Urban Tea Lounge, Kahawa House is a welcome site in Uptown. They sell warm beverages as well as smoothies and pastries. I had a small honeydew smoothie and it was really good and...large....I was seriously bloated after drinking it. Not bad for $2.
The space has been spruced up and includes a book exchange program as well as free wi-fi.
According to their postcard, they will have live music, spoken word, and book club readings.
*The owner informed me that Kahawa means coffee in Swahili.
I really hope this place survives. Check it out!
Just wanted to post an update because this place is so great and I want to give it some promotion.
The owners are so nice, the place is clean and the drinks are tasty. If you are in the neighborhood, stop by and hang out for awhile.
Free wi-fi, good sandwiches, nice people. Go there.
This joint is so close to my apartment that I am shocked that I have not been here until today.… Read more »
The sandwiches are very tasty and most are Kenyan inspired, which equals : TASTY.
The owners are really the nicest people who are very helpful and want to make sure that you are happy.
I agree with Sarah B., just go there if you can, it is worth the chance because you will love it.
Absolutely delicious. The owners are very nice guys and a pleasure to be around this quiet hangout.… Read more »
Can't say enough good things about this place
AJ, the owner, is as warm and friendly as you can get
The sandwiches are awesome and AJ's always got a new drink concoction for me to try.
the Kenyan theme is quaint
It's a true local business, run by people in the neighborhood for people in the neighborhood
take one leave one library
great book club
free wi fi
Unfortunately, it's location doesn't make it very visable. you could walk right past this place and never know its there. so spread the word. bring your friends.
so much better than Dollop (down the street on Claredon) who's coffee is acidic and prices high. when (if) the Target opens, there's likely to be a Starbucks or something. let's keep this strong before that kills it.
This place is great! It has a nice friendly atmosphere. Not only do they serve coffee and tea beverages they have a tasty selection of sandwiches that have a Kenyan flair to them. I love talking to AJ, the owner. My fellow customers also have a great time. It's almost become a neighborhood hang out.
apparently this place has been open for 5 weeks right across the street and i didn't notice it. so glad i did! when i walked in, i was immediately welcomed by 2 people, both super friendly. ordered a large mocha. i was looking at their menu and the paninis looked so good i had to try the tamu ham- ham and provolone, tomato, ginger sour cream, avocado, and lettuce on wheat and grilled. wow. so flavorful! and unexpected! love.
my coffee was delicious and huge, and all that only cost me $9. they have a really cute book exchange, a great loungy area that i can totally see coming back to, and plenty of tables. they also cater, and you can get your packages delivered there and they will sign for them and hold them for you! do places even do that anymore? that's awesome. i always have to call ups and go pick up my package all the way in the south loop.
the owner(?) came by and introduced himself and was very friendly- almost too friendly- but you could tell he was just trying to get a little start-up buzz going for his shop, so it's understandable. and it worked! i was so impressed that i will probably have to start limiting my trips there.
and i just kicked my caffeine habit a month ago.....out the window.....
I had such a great chai tea latte today, which the guy working at the counter was kind enough to make with soymilk. Lots of couch space to sit on and lots of books, hurrah!
Their Ku Ku Nanarzi sandwich is nice. Something that you don't get in other coffee shops. The owner is Kenyan and the shop portrays a pleasant East African image. I'm looking forward to trying more exotic dishes there. I tried the 'Thanksgiving in July' sandwich today (although it is August) and it was pretty nice as well.
Great staff and atmosphere - very warm and inviting.
Tried the coffee and the fruit smoothies both of which are great.
Kahawa house is my favorite neighborhood spot. The folks working at the place are always a joy to be around. Their energy only enhances the tasty coffee and sandwiches they offer. The prices are good, the people are great and this place is a sunny spot in an ever-evolving strip of uptown. This place is a feel good destination for sure.
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