The Top Spots To Get An Iconic Hawaiian Malasada Breakfast
By Hillary Louise Johnson
VACATIONS
Leonard's Bakery
Leonard's is one of the most well-known malasada bakeries. All the classic flavors are here, from coconut cream to chocolate to guava and even macadamia nut cream.
Leonard's is a Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice, and its signature malasadas are commonly described as "irresistible." "The hype is real," one Tripadvisor reviewer sums up.
Kaua'i Bakery
Kaua'i Bakery is an upscale eatery with a fun vibe and a loyal following. It has 4.5 stars on Yelp, and their light and fluffy malasadas take on the classic collapse.
Dark, intensely purple yet delicately flavored ube is a specialty, as is the sunny pink guava chiffon. They also sell a malasada flight with 10 varieties included.
Tex Drive In
This drive-in diner in Honokaa is an authentic 1960s joint that's celebrated for its malasadas. The malasadas are "unbelievable," according to a Tripadvisor reviewer.
You can order from your car or watch the bakery operation through a window. Tex's malasadas are doughier and heavier than some iterations, eggy and yeasty for a flavorful bite.