Kamehameha Bakery Inc is a local favorite. It might not top the list of touristy bakeries to stop by, and their boxes won’t win any awards for Instagrammability. But their donuts and pastries knock it out of the park. Because they are a local favorite, they start selling out fast; visit early in the morning for the best selection.
This bakery is perhaps best known for its poi-glazed donuts. These donuts are fluffy as air on the inside, then glazed with a poi-flavored sugar on the outside. These donuts are their fan favorite, but they also offer a handful of other specialties that keep visitors coming back for more.
Some of the most popular menu items at Kamehameha Bakery Inc include:
Poi-Glazed Donuts
These are available in a variety of flavors, and they’re the bakery’s most popular menu item. Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from taro root, and the Kamehameha Bakery Inc somehow magics the earthy, subtle poi flavor into the glaze on their poi donuts. It’s hard to go wrong with these sweet, soft confections.
Malasadas
Malasadas are another favorite among all the bakeries in the Hawaiian islands, with a few bakeries seeming to claim all the fame. A malasada is a type of Portuguese donut–essentially a fried yeasted bread, typically either glazed or coated in sugar and served up warm. The Kamehameha Bakery Inc offers a variety of malasada flavors, and none of them should be discounted; their strawberry malasadas are incredible, as are the taro and haupia (coconut custard) varieties.
Cinnamon Rolls
Try the taro cinnamon roll for a Hawaiian take on an American favorite. They also offer classic cinnamon rolls and a few other varieties, depending on the day you visit.
Fritters
Banana fritters, apple fritters, and more are also made fresh daily and served up with a smile. Again, it’s hard to go wrong with any of these sweet treats. They’re all very rich, as well; a little goes a long way when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth.
The Kamehameha Bakery Inc also offers a huge variety of other pastries and menu options, which vary by the season and the day you happen to visit. They accept orders the day before if you’d like to place a large order, and this also helps ensure you get to try your choice of pastries before they sell out.
Location
The Kamehameha Bakery Inc is located in Kalihi, a neighborhood in Honolulu that’s about six miles west of Waikiki. It’s a great stop on the way out of town before heading out for a day of exploring the island, especially if you’re heading west or north. Parking can be tight, but there are usually a few spots available if you’re willing to circle the block for a time or two.
Insider Tip:
Visit early in the morning if you have a particular favorite you want to try; especially on the weekends, as some items here sell out fast.