Where to Find the Best Malasadas on Oahu: A Sweet Island Treat
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Oahu is a food lover’s paradise, home to a blend of local delicacies, international flavors, and fresh ingredients that make dining here an adventure. Among the island’s most beloved treats is the malasada, a deep-fried Portuguese pastry that has been embraced by locals and visitors alike. Often dusted with sugar and sometimes filled with custard, chocolate, or even haupia (coconut cream), malasadas are a sweet, indulgent snack that you can't miss during your visit to Oahu.
Whether you’re a first-time taster or a lifelong fan, here’s a guide to where to find the best malasadas on Oahu—from the iconic bakery that made them famous to hidden gems across the island that serve up this sugary treat with a local twist.
1. Leonard’s Bakery – The Malasada King
Location: Kapahulu, Honolulu
Why It’s Famous: Legendary malasadas with a variety of fillings
No list of the best malasadas on Oahu would be complete without mentioning Leonard’s Bakery, the undisputed king of malasadas. Located just a short drive from Waikiki in the Kapahulu neighborhood, Leonard’s has been serving up its famous malasadas since 1952, and they are an absolute must-try for anyone visiting the island.
Leonard’s malasadas are famous for their light, airy texture and crisp, golden exterior. These delicious treats come in both plain and filled varieties. The plain malasadas are dusted with granulated sugar, while the filled ones feature mouthwatering fillings like custard, chocolate, haupia (coconut cream), and even li hing mui (a sweet-salty plum powder).
Leonard’s also offers malasadas in a “pillow” size for those who prefer a smaller bite, but honestly, the full-size version is a true indulgence. The bakery's Malasada Truck, a food truck that roams around the island, is also a fun way to catch the famous pastry on the go.
Tip: Go early, as Leonard’s can get busy, especially on weekends. A great way to avoid the lines is to visit during the early morning hours when they first open.
2. Champion Malasadas
Location: Kalihi, Honolulu
Why It’s Great: Fresh, made-to-order malasadas
If you’re looking for another iconic malasada spot with a bit less fanfare but just as much flavor, head over to Champion Malasadas in Kalihi. This family-owned bakery is a local favorite, known for its freshly made-to-order malasadas that come piping hot with a crispy, crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior.
Champion Malasadas takes a slightly different approach, offering malasadas that are golden-brown and lightly dusted with sugar. While they do offer filled malasadas (with flavors like custard and chocolate), many fans swear by the classic, simple, and perfectly fried plain malasada. You can also try their "pili pili" (spicy) malasadas, which add a little extra flavor and heat for those looking for something unique.
Champion’s malasadas are served fresh, so you might have to wait a bit for them to be made to order, but the wait is always worth it. They’re also famous for their Portuguese sausage if you're in the mood for something savory.
Tip: Since malasadas are made to order, be prepared to wait a little while, but know that it's worth the wait. They’re best enjoyed warm!
3. Agave Café – Malasadas with a Twist
Location: Wahiawa
Why It’s Great: Innovative fillings and a cozy vibe
For something a little different, check out Agave Café in Wahiawa. Known for its Mexican-Hawaiian fusion, this cozy, laid-back café offers a fun twist on the classic malasada by filling them with creative options like cinnamon sugar, guava, sour cream, and even taro.
While the malasadas here are slightly smaller than those at Leonard's or Champion, they pack a lot of flavor in each bite. The crispy exterior contrasts nicely with the decadent fillings, and Agave Café’s creative takes on this local favorite will certainly add some variety to your malasada journey.
Agave Café is also a great spot for those looking to relax with a great cup of coffee or an iced drink while indulging in a malasada or two. The relaxed vibe and friendly service make it a favorite among locals.
Tip: For an extra special treat, try their guava-filled malasadas—the tangy fruit complements the sweetness of the pastry beautifully.
4. Kamehameha Bakery
Location: Kalihi, Honolulu
Why It’s Great: Super-soft malasadas with a historic legacy
Another great spot in Kalihi is Kamehameha Bakery, known for its ultra-soft malasadas. Established in 1970, Kamehameha Bakery has been serving traditional Portuguese malasadas for decades, and it's a beloved spot for locals who know their pastries.
The malasadas at Kamehameha are big, pillowy, and coated in a generous amount of sugar. The bakery's filled malasadas are particularly popular, with options like custard, chocolate, and haupia. Many locals also rave about the long johns, a malasada shaped like a bar and filled with sweet custard or chocolate, which gives you more filling per bite.
The bakery has a long history and remains a cherished staple in Oahu's pastry scene. The malasadas here are consistent in quality, freshly fried, and made with the kind of care that makes them feel like they were made at home.
Tip: Since malasadas are made fresh and sometimes in limited batches, it’s a good idea to arrive early to get your hands on some before they run out.
5. Sweets Ahoy – Gourmet Malasadas
Location: Waikiki (via food trucks)
Why It’s Great: Modern takes and gourmet flavors
For a more modern take on the classic malasada, look no further than Sweets Ahoy, a trendy food truck that pops up around Waikiki and other spots. Sweets Ahoy has taken the malasada to the next level with gourmet fillings and creative toppings, offering a more upscale twist on this beloved treat.
Their malasadas come with options like Nutella filling, matcha cream, and even smoked bourbon caramel—perfect for those who want to try something more adventurous. They also offer a variety of toppings like bacon, powdered sugar, or even Oreos, adding fun, unique flavors to each bite.
If you’re in the mood for something that combines traditional Portuguese flavors with a touch of modern culinary innovation, Sweets Ahoy is a must-try.
Tip: Check social media for their truck's schedule as they tend to move around Waikiki. Follow them to stay up to date on where you can find their sweet malasada creations.
6. Manoa Chocolate
Location: Manoa
Why It’s Great: Chocolate malasadas made with local ingredients
For those who can’t get enough of chocolate, Manoa Chocolate offers a delectable version of malasadas that you’ll want to try. Known for their premium, locally sourced chocolate, Manoa Chocolate combines their expertise in chocolate-making with the classic Portuguese pastry to create chocolate-filled malasadas that are simply irresistible.
The dough is light and fluffy, while the rich chocolate filling adds a decadent touch. It’s a great choice for chocolate lovers who want to enjoy a truly Hawaiian twist on the traditional malasada.
Tip: Pair your chocolate malasada with a hot cup of Manoa Chocolate's locally made cocoa for the ultimate indulgence.
Conclusion: Oahu's Malasadas Are a Must-Try Sweet Treat
Whether you’re indulging in the world-famous malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery, savoring a freshly made batch at Champion Malasadas, or trying out a creative, gourmet twist at Sweets Ahoy, Oahu is home to some of the best malasadas in the world. The island’s mix of traditional bakeries, modern food trucks, and local favorites ensure that there's a malasada experience for every sweet tooth.
So, the next time you're on Oahu, make sure to savor this delicious pastry—each bite is a perfect taste of local culture, history, and sweetness. You won’t regret it!