New Hawaiian java joint opens

There is one more reason to call Las Vegas Hawaii's ninth island.

Maui Wowi Hawaiian Coffees and Smoothies opened its doors to the public on Saturday. This franchise is the first location in our city and it offers a variety of delicious drinks.

This new smoothie spot comes in at perfect timing now that our temperatures have started to rise.

I had the opportunity to attend the grand opening. The entertainment, not typical for every franchise opening, started at 10 a.m. with a traditional Hawaiian ritual and the Lion and Dragon dance performed by the Lohan School of Shoalin. These two particular events were to bring luck and prosperity to the new business.

Other performances included a comedian, the Filipino Dance Troup of Las Vegas, Fire Eaters with the crew of the Arsenal of Fire, and of course Hawaiian music.

New coffee shop Maui Wowi wins with tropical fruit smoothies, deluxe Kona coffee drinks

Maui Wowi has an extensive menu that offers attractive fruit combinations for smoothies and coffee blends. However, you won't find food here, only pastries.

The coffee shop is a small "quick stop" kind of place. It has a tropical yet modern feel to it with couch-like seats and bamboo decoration that surrounds the pick-up side of the counter.

The employees were very friendly and made sure to check on the customers every so often. Every customer I spoke with was pleased with the place.

"I love it. It's a cute little cafe type of style... great friendly people," said one patron.

All the products in this shop are Hawaiian. The coffee blends are guaranteed to be made of Kona coffee.

Those who were not related or hadn't been invited by the owners were happy with the place and the products they offer.

"The smoothies are very delicious, very flavorful but not overpowering and very fresh," another patron said.

My choice was a

"Hawaiian Dreamsicle." A combination of mango, orange and pina colada with whipped cream. Not too sweet and not too plain, it was just right.

When I talked to a person who lives close by the area she said, "It's nice to know that there is a place for coffee that's not Starbucks. It is very well placed, there is nothing like it nearby. "

Unfortunately, this coffee shop is not close to UNLV at all. However, if you happen to be in the area, definitely check it out. The environment and the options are great. There is also a 25 percent discount for students with RebelCards.

Maui Wowi is located at 4950 S. Rainbow Blvd. on the southwest corner of Rainbow Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue. Pick-up orders and catering are available. For more information on their products or services log on to cupakona.com.

The owners plan to open another location in June on Craig and Jones.