If you’re heading Upcountry and through Makawao, in need of a proper coffee—one that’s not just well-made, but thoughtfully crafted—you’ll want to stop at Espresso Mafia. This isn’t your average grab-and-go coffee spot. It’s a family-run operation, and you feel that the moment you walk up. Owner Anthony Bianucci (pictured below) is often behind the espresso machine himself, dialing in shots, chatting with customers, and greeting regulars like old friends. It’s a business, sure—but it’s also clearly his passion. And that makes all the difference.
Espresso Mafia is the kind of place where you can show up solo and feel totally at ease, or bring friends and end up staying longer than you planned. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, music playing, people talking story—and a steady stream of locals and visitors who clearly know they’ve found something special.
What To Order at Espresso Mafia?
The menu? It’s excellent. Whether you’re an espresso purist or you lean toward sweet, creative drinks, there’s something here worth trying. We’re partial to the Coconut Cold Brew (pictured above left), made with their own house-made coconut syrup—one of the best we’ve tasted anywhere. If you ever see their Mint Mocha on the special board, imagine a liquefied, caffeinated Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookie. Simply decadent, but also well balanced. Notably, Espresso Mafia is the only coffee shop on Maui utilizing nitrogen extracted from the air for their nitro cold brew (pictured above right as a special, their Brown Sugar Cinnamon Nitro Cold Brew Latte), rather than relying on pre-filled tanks.
They also offer fresh baked pastries like Pistachio Croissants and Chocolate/Walnut Banana Bread; which usually sell out early, so fair warning. For lunch, we love the Turkey, Bacon + Pesto Croissant (pictured below) as well as the Italian Sandwich on house-made pizza dough. Like everything here, the food’s done with intention, and with the help of other small local businesses. Part of what makes Espresso Mafia so good is the care behind it. Anthony’s been in the coffee world a long time, and you can tell he takes pride in his work. But it goes beyond technique. He remembers names. He asks questions. He’ll spot your hat and strike up a conversation about snowboarding, or whatever else sparks connection that day. Wanna talk shop about the ins and outs of the process from bean to cup? Well, there might not be a better person on island to converse with.
That’s the real story here. Yes, the coffee is top-tier. But it’s the people—the Bianucci family, the staff, the regulars—that turn Espresso Mafia into something more. It’s not just one of Maui’s best coffee shops. It’s a place that reflects what’s best about life on the island: good energy, good people, and a willingness to slow down and connect over something simple done well.
Sayles Team Listings Near Espresso Mafia
A good cup of coffee says a lot about a place. And Espresso Mafia says this: Upcountry is community-driven, creative, and full of character. Whether you’re here for a weekend or looking for a slower, more grounded lifestyle, Makawao and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer.
If you’re considering putting down roots nearby, here are two properties worth the short 10-minute drive from town:
4345 Waha Place in Haiku
A private, renovated 3-bedroom home on 2 flat acres in Haiku, complete with a detached Ohana and workshop. Surrounded by greenery and tucked below a Puʻu, it’s a North Shore retreat built for real living. Listed at $2,295,000.
619 Omaopio Road Lot B
A gently sloping, all-usable 1-acre homesite at 1,900 ft elevation in Kula. This CPR’d lot offers expansive ocean views, rich soil for farming, and room for a 1,500 sq. ft. ‘Ohana home. If you’re dreaming of citrus trees, cool evenings, and a future home with space to grow, this is it.
Contact a Maui Real Estate Specialist
Both of these listings reflect what makes North Shore and Upcountry Maui life special—room to breathe, community nearby, and the space to build something lasting. Want to explore what life here could look like for you? Let’s talk.
Yes we will always be your trusted advisor in the real estate market. But it’s so much more than that! A REALTOR should be that professional who recognizes their role in supporting your wealth building and preservation. Helping to magnify wealth is one of the core values of The Sayles Team; a set of guiding principles for how we serve our clients at the highest level.
As experts in the field, we are constantly learning. This is all about providing guidance, making the wisest choices for the future. If someone you care about needs such guidance or recommendations, please share our contact information. We would be honored to help them! As ever, we are here to provide resources. Reach out today for your up to date, in-depth market analysis or an evaluation of your property’s value.
Aloha,
Anthony Sayles R(S)
808-280-6532