Enter the Manapua. Popular in Hawaii, this meat-filled steamed bun is just right with a cup of coffee. The ones at Bad Ass ($2.50), while a little low on the meat-to-bun ratio, have tangy barbecue pork or chicken on the inside and a sweet, spongy, delicious bun on the outside. Have them heat it up.
Another great choice is their breakfast burrito ($2.65). It’s just the right size and filled with warm potatoes, cheese, bacon and eggs. And for lunch, try their chicken salad sandwich. While a bit pricey at $5.95, it’s a good 2 inches thick and is a satisfying blend of chicken and nuts on whole wheat bread. And they don’t overdo the mayo. There are tuna salad ($5.95) and egg salad ($6.50) sandwiches as well.
They have a wide selection of interesting teas here too, such as Japanese Cherry Sakura, Organic Rooibos from South Africa, and my favorite, passion fruit with flowers ($2 any size cup).
The condiment bar has all the usual items plus a few unique liquid sweeteners (e.g. cane sugar and honey-based).
All in all, the Bad Ass Coffee Company is a fun place to hang out and enjoy a beverage and snack. The service is efficient and generally friendly. It may not be an all-natural health experience, but the sweet drinks, smooth Kona coffee, tropical atmosphere and satisfying food will definitely “aloha” up your day.
LISA DUPUY is a self-proclaimed foodie. She enjoys reading cook books, hosting dinner parties and going out to dinner with her family. She welcomes comments or questions at ldupuy@aol.com.
