Having lived in East Honolulu for more than a decade now, I know breakfast spots are few and far between.

Sure, there’s Jack’s in Aina Haina — love the special biscuits — and Koa Pancake House in Hawaii Kai. But short of driving into Kaimuki — there are lots to choose from there! — there aren’t many other spots for pancakes and a cup of coffee.

Until earlier this year.

In May, Eric and Nicole Chang opened Moena Cafe in Koko Marina Center, serving breakfast and brunch items every day. The little cafe occupies the space vacated by Papa John’s.

Eric has nearly 30 years of culinary experience, having worked at Bueno Nalo Restaurant, La Rotisserie & Grill, California Pizza Kitchen and Sunset Grill. His last gig was at the Sheraton Moana Surfrider, where he was the head dinner chef.

You can tell from the menu — which features items like crab benedict, sweet and savory crepes, homemade three-cheese baked macaroni and ham, panini sandwiches and a slew of hearty salads — that there’s a bonafide chef behind it. But be prepared to pay for it: the prices here are slightly more expensive than elsewhere.

So a few of us — all from East Honolulu — headed down one weekday afternoon to satisfy our breakfast cravings.

Word of caution: make reservations. It gets crowded here!

Here’s what we ate:

Inside

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It's hard to believe this was once a pizza shop! The interior is modern and inviting, with dark woods contrasting the bright walls.

Moena Cafe, Koko Marina Center, 7192 Kalanianaole Highway. Hours: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. Phone: (808) 888-7716