Ala Moana Center in Honolulu: Hawaii’s First Store Opening, Location & Menu
Hawaii’s bubble tea scene is getting a new addition, with Molly Tea preparing to open its first location in the state at Ala Moana Center in Honolulu. Known for its fragrant jasmine teas, creamy milk tea blends, and signature whipped toppings, the popular Chinese beverage brand is currently expected to arrive in October 2026.
The launch has been postponed several times since it was first announced, leaving local tea lovers waiting for a chance to try the brand without traveling to the mainland. Although the exact opening date remains unconfirmed, here’s what we know about the upcoming store, its location, potential opening promotions, and the drinks worth trying.
Molly Tea Ala Moana: Key Details
- Location: Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Mall location: Level 2, Mauka Wing
- Expected opening: October 2026
- Official opening date: Not yet announced
- Store hours: Awaiting confirmation
- Significance: Hawaii’s first Molly Tea shop
When Is Molly Tea Opening in Honolulu?
Molly Tea has yet to confirm the official launch date for its Ala Moana Center location. However, previous reports offer some insight into the anticipated timeline.
The store was initially expected to open in February 2026, according to local coverage published in December 2025. As the year progressed, the projected opening shifted to July. By August 2026, Aloha State Daily was reporting October as the latest expected opening period.
These changing dates mean the October timeline should still be treated as an estimate rather than a confirmed launch date.
New retail locations can experience delays while construction, staffing, and other preparations are completed. Recent updates to online business listings may indicate progress, but they do not establish an official opening day.
Customers should watch Molly Tea’s official channels for confirmation of the launch date, operating hours, and any opening-week promotions.
How to Find Molly Tea at Ala Moana Center
The upcoming shop is expected to be located on Level 2 in the Mauka Wing of Ala Moana Center, at 1450 Ala Moana Boulevard in Honolulu.
The Mauka Wing is on the mountain-facing side of the shopping center. Because Ala Moana is a large mall with multiple retail areas, checking the center’s directory or digital map before visiting may make the search easier.
The store’s precise opening details and any additional directions should become clearer closer to launch.
Will There Be Grand Opening Promotions?
Molly Tea has not released details of any special offers for its Hawaii debut. However, promotions at some of the brand’s other US locations provide an idea of what customers might want to look out for.
Previous store launches have featured several types of introductory deals, including:
- Opening discounts: Some locations have offered 12% off drinks during a three-day soft-opening period.
- Buy-one-get-one offers: Selected grand opening events have included complimentary drinks or similar promotional deals.
- Free branded merchandise: Early visitors at certain launches have received items such as tumblers, keychains, candles, and refrigerator magnets.
- New app-member gifts: Sign-up promotions have sometimes included small gifts for customers joining the brand’s rewards program.
These examples come from other Molly Tea locations and are not confirmed offers for Honolulu. Any promotions at Ala Moana Center will depend on the local store’s official announcement.
If you’re hoping to take advantage of opening specials, check the brand’s social media pages and app for the latest information before making a trip.
What Should You Order at Molly Tea?
Molly Tea is particularly known for its floral tea blends, with jasmine playing a central role in its signature drinks. The menu also includes creamy milk teas, fruit-infused combinations, and beverages finished with specialty cream toppings.
Here are some options to consider on your first visit.
1. Premium Jasmine Milk Tea
This is a natural starting point for anyone new to Molly Tea. The drink combines jasmine green tea with milk, creating a smooth beverage with a fragrant floral character.
If you prefer a classic milk tea rather than an elaborate topping or fruit combination, this is a good option to explore first.
2. Snowy Jasmine
Snowy Jasmine stands out for its distinctive whipped jasmine cream topping. The layered presentation and floral flavor have helped make it one of the brand’s recognizable drinks.
It’s worth considering if you enjoy creamy toppings alongside the taste of jasmine tea.
3. Jasmine Apple and Jasmine Grape Milk Teas
For a fruitier variation, jasmine apple and jasmine grape drinks offer an alternative to traditional milk tea. Their combination of floral tea notes and fruit flavors may appeal to customers looking for something different from the classic version.
Availability and preparation may vary by location.
4. Osmanthus Milk Tea
Osmanthus is known for its delicate, fruity aroma, often compared to apricot. In a milk tea, its floral character provides a different experience from the more familiar jasmine-based options.
This is an interesting choice for anyone who wants to explore a wider range of tea flavors.
5. White Champaca Milk Tea
White champaca offers a more pronounced floral fragrance. Customers who enjoy aromatic teas may want to consider this option when exploring Molly Tea’s specialty drinks.
Beyond these selections, the brand also serves iced teas and fruit teas. The final Ala Moana menu, drink customization options, and prices have not yet been announced, so customers should check the local menu after the store opens.
Why Molly Tea’s Hawaii Debut Matters
Founded in Shenzhen, China, in 2021, Molly Tea has expanded into an international beverage brand with a reported network of more than 2,000 locations worldwide.
The company entered the US market in 2024 and has since expanded into several states, including New York, California, Texas, Maryland, New Jersey, and Washington.
Its focus on floral teas, milk-based beverages, and visually distinctive toppings has helped it attract attention in the competitive specialty tea market. Some of its US store openings have also generated substantial queues, reflecting interest in the brand’s drinks and launch events.
The Honolulu location will introduce Molly Tea to Hawaii for the first time. Its position inside Ala Moana Center, one of the state’s major shopping destinations, could make it a popular stop for residents and visitors alike.
Tips for Visiting Molly Tea on Opening Day
If you’re planning to visit once the store launches, a little preparation may help make the experience easier.
- Check official announcements: Follow Molly Tea’s social media accounts for the confirmed opening date and any changes to the schedule.
- Look for app offers: Check whether the rewards app has new-member promotions or location-specific deals.
- Arrive early for limited gifts: If the Honolulu store offers free merchandise, supplies may be limited and distributed according to the promotion’s terms.
- Know where you’re going: Head to Level 2 in the Mauka Wing of Ala Moana Center.
- Check the menu before ordering: Once the local menu becomes available, review the choices and prices to decide which drinks you’d like to try.
Since the opening date and hours are still unconfirmed, it’s best to verify the latest details before visiting.
More Molly Tea Store Openings
Molly Tea continues to expand its presence across the United States, with new locations attracting attention in several markets. Customers interested in the brand’s expansion can also explore coverage of its Westfield Southcenter location in Washington and its Cherry Hill location in New Jersey.
For additional updates, look for a current list of upcoming Molly Tea store openings across the country.
Final Thoughts
Molly Tea’s planned arrival at Ala Moana Center will mark the brand’s first entry into Hawaii, giving Honolulu residents a new place to explore floral milk teas and specialty cream-topped drinks.
Although the opening has shifted several times, October 2026 remains the latest reported target. The company has not yet confirmed the exact date, store hours, local menu prices, or any grand opening offers.
For now, jasmine milk tea fans can keep an eye on official announcements and prepare to visit the Mauka Wing on Level 2 once the store is ready to welcome customers.
