Komoda Store & Bakery
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Komoda Store & Bakery

4.6
·1k reviews·Makawao, United States

A historic Maui bakery since 1916, famous for its legendary cream puffs, donuts on a stick, and butter rolls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Freshest pastries, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Komoda Store & Bakery

Komoda Store & Bakery

Best Time

Morning

Freshest pastries, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Maui bakery since 1916, famous for its legendary cream puffs, donuts on a stick, and butter rolls.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Komoda's isn't just a bakery — it's a tradition, a taste of aloha that lives on in every crumb."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection

Popular items sell out fast! Get there right when they open to guarantee your favorites.

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

There's a minimum for card payments. Cash makes transactions quicker and easier.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Cream Puffs

Legendary Cream Puffs

Bakery Counter

Pillowy soft pastry filled with a sweet, creamy vanilla custard. A true taste of Maui tradition.

Donuts on a Stick

Donuts on a Stick

Display Case

Golden, perfectly fried donuts served on a convenient stick. Simple, classic, and utterly delicious.

Malasadas

Malasadas

Display Case

Warm, fluffy Portuguese-style donuts, often filled with guava jam or vanilla cream. A must-try island treat.

Butter Rolls

Butter Rolls

Display Case

Soft, slightly sweet rolls with a rich, buttery flavor. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

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Planning Your Visit

Get There Early for Freshness

Komoda Store & Bakery is a beloved local institution, and popular items like their famous cream puffs and donuts sell out fast. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag the freshest treats and avoid disappointment. It's worth the early wake-up call for a taste of Maui tradition! Reddit

Cash is King (Mostly)

While Komoda Store & Bakery has been around for over a century, they still operate with some old-school practices. Be prepared to pay with cash, as there's a minimum purchase requirement for card payments. This helps keep the lines moving and ensures you can get your hands on those delicious pastries. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Freshest pastries, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Komoda Bakery - closed?

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection

Popular items sell out fast! Get there right when they open to guarantee your favorites. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

There's a minimum for card payments. Cash makes transactions quicker and easier. Reddit

reddit.com

A day in upcountry

reddit.com

Is Makawao worth visiting?

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Street parking is available but can fill up. Be patient or consider a short walk. :car:

😋 Don't Skip the Malasadas

Especially the guava-filled ones – they're a local favorite! :star:

reddit.com

Banana bread & Lilikoi?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Selection

Popular items sell out fast! Get there right when they open to guarantee your favorites. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Purchases

There's a minimum for card payments. Cash makes transactions quicker and easier. Reddit

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Street parking is available but can fill up. Be patient or consider a short walk. :car:

😋 Don't Skip the Malasadas

Especially the guava-filled ones – they're a local favorite! :star:

🧐 Ask About Daily Specials

They sometimes have unique seasonal treats that aren't on the main menu. :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Komoda Store & Bakery is a cherished Maui institution, celebrated for its incredibly fresh, traditional pastries like cream puffs and donuts on a stick. While service can be brisk, the delicious, time-tested flavors make it a must-visit for an authentic taste of local history. Many visitors find the early morning rush and cash-only preference a small price to pay for such iconic treats. Reddit

"A must-visit spot when you're in or passing through Kula.
They serve traditional pastries with a exquisite and unique flavor.
The PUFF CREAM PASTRY and the MALASADAS are their signature items.
The service isn't the most friendly, but the food is absolutely worth it, 100% recommended."

Victor Valdez

"Desserts aren't my forte, so I'm not one to get excited by bakeries and confectionaries. Put an ice cream shop in front of me and we have a different story. So why am I reviewing the infamous bakery of Makawao and a popular island wide establishment? Because cupcakes hold a strong second place in my heart. Read on...

Whenever I'm eating something from Komoda's, its because someone brought them to work or a party. I will not make a special trip up to Makawao to buy sweets. But after what I recently tried this past Halloween at a friend's house, I honestly would make the drive up.

ATMOSPHERE:
I've been inside maybe twice, over a decade ago, so I can't comment on the inside digs, but the outside is just what a mom & pop place looks like: Plain, simple, and looks at home in a western movie.

DESSERTS:
Chantilly Cupcakes
I had no idea that chantilly was a local recipe until I Googled it. The specifics are that its a German chocolate cake without coconut. Great for me because I'm not a huge coconut fan. So what does it taste like? The chocolate cupcakes are super moist and just melts in your mouth. The inside is filled with a small amount of the cream that makes a chantilly cake, a true chantilly cake. The flavor is similar to caramel, a bit sweet and a bit salty, and really damn good. The cupcake is topped with the same cream and a maraschino cherry. Wow. This cupcake guy is a total fan. This would definitely kick some Cupcake War ass!

Cream Puffs
Meh, I've never been a fan of these. I don't care for the texture of the cream puff which reminds me of stale bread, or the flavor of the cream which has a chemical-like taste. Pass.

Butter Rolls
Four Sisters Bakery does the best job at these because they put an obscene amount of butter in theirs. Here, they go light on the artery clogging. The trick is to zap them for 20 seconds in the micro to soften up the dough and warm the butter. Delish!

French Apple Pie
A co-worker ordered a whole pie because she absolutely loves it. The slice I tried was absolutely delish! The crust was flaky with that great homemade baked taste, the filling was full of chunky apples and not overly sweet, and the whole thing is topped with a mixture of crumbled crust and possibly a dusting of sugar crystals which gave it a slight crunch. Yowza! This guy may be turning into a dessert lover...

OVERALL:
Must try cupcakes for the cupcake fan."

Maui World Travelers

"Pretty much if they are open I'm stopping for some malasadas for the road. I'm partial to the guava, also like the vanilla cream and the turnovers. Lots of nearby parks, beaches, scenic drives and road trips nearby, so basically lots of reasons to buy a bag of malasadas. Also sold individually. $10 minimum for card pay."

Lisa Mahan

What People Like

Legendary cream puffs
Fresh donuts on a stick
Authentic local tradition

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Service can be abrupt
Card minimums

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Komoda Store & Bakery is located in Makawao on the island of Maui. If you're driving from Kahului Airport, take Highway 37 towards Pukalani and then Highway 377 up to Makawao. Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours. Reddit

Street parking is available in front of and around the bakery. However, it can get quite busy, particularly on weekends and mornings. Be prepared to circle for a spot or walk a short distance. :car:

Public transportation options on Maui are limited, especially to Makawao. The Maui Bus does have routes that go near Makawao town, but it may require transfers and a significant walk to reach the bakery. Renting a car is generally the most convenient way to visit. :bus:

From Lahaina or Ka'anapali, take Highway 30 East towards Kahului, then follow the directions above for Highway 37 and 377. The drive can take over an hour depending on traffic. :road:

The bakery is a historic building with a small storefront. While there are no stairs to enter, the space inside can be tight. Parking directly in front might be challenging. :wheelchair:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Komoda Store & Bakery does not require tickets for entry. It's a walk-in bakery where you purchase pastries directly. Reddit

Their hours can vary, but they typically open early in the morning and close in the afternoon. It's best to check their most current hours before visiting, as popular items sell out quickly. Reddit

There is no admission fee to enter Komoda Store & Bakery. You only pay for the delicious pastries you choose to buy. :moneybag:

Komoda Store & Bakery does not take reservations. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and they do not accept pre-orders for most items. Reddit

There is a minimum purchase amount required if you wish to pay with a credit or debit card. It's advisable to have cash on hand to avoid any issues, especially for smaller purchases. Reddit

🎫 😋 Onsite Experience

The absolute must-tries are their legendary cream puffs and donuts on a stick. Many also rave about their malasadas (especially guava-filled), butter rolls, and Chantilly cupcakes. Reddit

Yes, they are renowned for their freshness! Items are baked daily, and popular treats often sell out by late morning. Arriving early is key to experiencing them at their best. Reddit

The atmosphere is that of a classic, no-frills local bakery. It's simple, historic, and focused on serving delicious, traditional pastries. Don't expect a fancy cafe setting. Reddit

Reviews on service can be mixed. Some find it efficient and to-the-point, while others mention it's not overly warm. The focus is on the quality of the baked goods. Reddit

Komoda Store & Bakery is primarily a take-out establishment. There isn't dedicated seating for dining in. You'll likely want to take your treats to a nearby park or scenic spot to enjoy them. :picnic_table:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

They offer a range of traditional Hawaiian and American pastries, including cream puffs, donuts on a stick, malasadas, butter rolls, Chantilly cupcakes, turnovers, Danishes, and pies. Reddit

Komoda Store & Bakery focuses on traditional recipes, and they do not typically offer specific gluten-free or vegan options. Their menu is centered around classic baked goods made with flour, dairy, and eggs. :warning:

The signature items are undoubtedly their cream puffs and donuts on a stick. Malasadas, especially those filled with guava, are also highly celebrated. Reddit

Yes, they do offer whole pies and cakes, but these often need to be ordered in advance due to their popularity. Inquire directly with the bakery about availability and ordering for larger items. Reddit

Classic vanilla cream is standard for cream puffs. Malasadas are often available with fillings like guava jam, vanilla cream, or sometimes other fruit flavors. It's best to check what's available on the day of your visit. :tropical_fish:

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic items are the pastries themselves – the golden donuts, the perfectly filled cream puffs, and colorful malasadas. The historic exterior of the bakery also makes for a charming shot. :camera:

Generally, taking photos of the pastries and the storefront is acceptable. However, be mindful of other customers and staff, and avoid intrusive photography. :iphone:

Morning light is often best for capturing the golden hues of the pastries and the charm of the bakery. Early hours also mean fewer crowds, making for cleaner shots. :sunrise:

Yes! Makawao town itself has a charming, old-west feel. You can also take your treats to nearby scenic lookouts or beaches for beautiful backdrops. :mountain:

Popular hashtags include #KomodaStore, #KomodaBakery, #MauiSweets, #CreamPuffs, #Malasadas, #DonutsOnAStick, #Makawao, and #TasteOfMaui. :speech_balloon:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Komoda Store & Bakery is a fantastic stop for families looking for a sweet treat. The donuts on a stick are a huge hit with children, offering a fun and easy-to-handle snack. The cream puffs are also a crowd-pleaser, with their delightful custard filling. Since there's no seating, plan to enjoy your pastries at a nearby park or beach, making it a perfect addition to a family outing. Remember to bring cash, as it can simplify transactions with little ones in tow. Reddit

Consider picking up a variety of items to share, like butter rolls and malasadas, so everyone can sample different flavors. The historic charm of Makawao town can also be an interesting element for older children to observe. Just be prepared for the possibility of popular items selling out, so an early morning visit is often best for families to ensure they get their desired treats.

💰 Budget Travelers

Komoda Store & Bakery offers incredible value for money, especially considering the quality and taste of their pastries. While prices are reasonable, the key to maximizing your budget is to arrive early to get the best selection before items potentially sell out. Bringing cash can also help avoid any card minimums, ensuring every dollar goes towards delicious treats. Reddit

Instead of buying multiple individual items, consider purchasing a few of their signature butter rolls or a small box of malasadas to share. This allows you to experience a range of flavors without breaking the bank. Since it's a take-out spot, you save on restaurant markups, and enjoying your treats at a scenic public spot is free entertainment. The Komoda Store & Bakery menu is full of affordable delights that offer a true taste of Maui without a hefty price tag.

🚗 Day-Trippers from Other Parts of Maui

If you're on a day trip to the Upcountry or Haleakala region, Komoda Store & Bakery is an essential stop. It's conveniently located in Makawao town, making it an easy addition to a scenic drive. Plan your visit for the morning to ensure you don't miss out on their most popular items, especially if you're heading to Haleakala for sunrise or exploring the area afterward. Reddit

Grab your pastries to go and enjoy them with a view at one of the many scenic lookouts in Upcountry Maui, or pack them for your journey. Be mindful of parking in Makawao, which can be tight. Having cash ready will streamline your purchase, allowing you to get back on your road trip itinerary efficiently. It's a perfect way to fuel your adventures with authentic local flavors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Century of Sweet Tradition

Komoda Store & Bakery has been a cornerstone of Makawao, Maui, since 1916. This historic establishment has weathered over a century of change, remaining a beloved local institution by consistently serving up traditional, handcrafted pastries. Its longevity is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic flavors and a commitment to quality that has been passed down through generations. The bakery's simple, no-frills approach has allowed it to focus on what it does best: creating delicious treats that evoke nostalgia and a sense of place. Reddit

The Komoda Store & Bakery menu is intentionally straightforward, featuring items that have stood the test of time. Their fame rests on a few iconic creations, most notably the cream puffs and donuts on a stick. These aren't just pastries; they are edible pieces of Maui history. The Komoda Store itself embodies a bygone era, with its unassuming facade and interior that prioritizes function over modern aesthetics. This authenticity is a significant part of its charm, drawing visitors seeking a genuine taste of old Hawaii. Reddit

For many, a visit to Komoda is a pilgrimage. The Komoda Store and Bakery about page on their website (if they had one) would likely speak to their deep roots in the community and their pride in continuing a family legacy. The Komoda Store and Bakery menu is a curated list of comfort and tradition, with items like butter rolls and malasadas (often filled with guava) rounding out the offerings. It’s a place where the simple act of enjoying a pastry connects you to the island's past and its present. Reddit

Navigating the Komoda Experience

Visiting Komoda Store & Bakery is an experience in itself, often requiring a bit of planning to ensure you get the most out of your trip. The most crucial tip echoed by locals and visitors alike is to arrive early. Popular items, especially the signature cream puffs and donuts, are baked fresh daily and tend to sell out quickly, sometimes before noon. This means that for the best selection, an early morning visit is highly recommended. Reddit

Another practical consideration is payment. While they do accept cards, there's often a minimum purchase requirement. To avoid any hassle, especially for smaller buys, it's wise to have cash on hand. This also helps speed up the transaction process, which can be beneficial during busy periods. The bakery's interior is cozy and functional, designed for quick service rather than lingering. Most visitors opt for take-out, planning to enjoy their delicious finds at a nearby park or scenic spot. Reddit

When you're there, don't be afraid to ask about any daily specials or seasonal offerings. While the core menu is consistent, there might be unique treats available. The staff, while perhaps not overly effusive, are efficient and focused on serving the steady stream of customers. The overall vibe is one of a beloved community staple, where the quality of the baked goods speaks for itself. Reddit

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