Leonard's Bakery — Restaurant in Honolulu

So when you visit Oahu and your trying to decide what Hawaiian foods you're going to eat while you're here, I'll bet you weren't thinking donuts were you? I know I wasn't but here I am having eaten about four donuts at this point. Not just any donut though, apparently these are Portuguese donuts. So what makes a Portuguese donut different than your typical donut that you can get pretty much anywhere? I don't actually know the answer to that. But I can say, that this is no ordinary donut. The main differences I would say are that this donut is for spongy, and after you bite it it doesn't compress and collapse. Well, it does but it retains its shape and will spring back to where it was as opposed to staying crushed and flat. The other notable element is at it is less crumbly and not as soft as a classic glazed, a tad more dry, and probably a bit more eggy. Leonard's is a tiny shop that looks a bit like a tiny drive-in. It has a tiny parking lot so finding someplace to put your car while you go to get your donuts may be a bit challenging. When we arrived there were spaces in the parking lot, but we noticed that they had blocked off the entrance with the chain. It was 503 after we had made our order and we had found out in that moment that Leonard's closes at 5:00 p.m. so we just got our order in at the very last.

Once you're there, the lobby area is not very big and cannot accommodate many people. You go in the shop, order, and then you go outside and wait for them to call your number. I'm not sure if I read it right, but it looks like the menu allows you to order from about nine different flavors which are basically the Portuguese donut with your choice of filling. It seems as though they cover each donut with sugar as well. And for this trip I had decided that we would get 12 so that we could try one of each because I didn't know if we'll ever be back, and I did not want anyone in the family to feel as though they may not have chosen the right one. The flavors range from a selection of feelings like cream filled or chocolate or marshmallow or guava or toffee. You can also have them plain or sprinkled with cinnamon on top. The order took about 10 minutes to fulfill and when it came out it was hot. If you know donuts, you know that the best donut is a fresh donut, and that a donut aged even an hour is nowhere near as good. This basically ensured that we were going to get the best Leonard's donut experience.

We were very lucky that we decided to park outside the parking lot. The people behind us were the last and they didn't realize that place closes at 5:00. They were the last patrons served that day.

Took these back to our condo and sampled them all, and to my surprise it was a unique donut experience as far as donuts go for me. I am no donut aficionado but this wasn't like any donut that I've had before. They were pretty good. I don't know the last time I ate this much donut in this much volume. Matter of fact we thought that buying 12 might have been overkill but in our family for we killed nearly all the donuts in one sitting. Leonard's is apparently a local classic and is known even to visitors of Oahu. If you go to Leonard's chances are you are only going to that part of town for Leonard's. There really is nothing else around it that would draw tourists. However, I would argue that it's worth the trip. Give it a try. Let me know if you think differently. Who knows... Maybe I will go back one more time before I leave Oahu...

Leonard’s Bakery is an absolute gem in Honolulu and a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their malasadas are legendary, and for good reason!

The Malasadas: The malasadas at Leonard’s are nothing short of amazing. They are served hot and fresh, with a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. The classic plain sugar-coated malasadas are a fan favorite, but the real treat lies in the variety of fillings and coatings they offer.

Types & Flavors: Leonard’s offers several types of malasadas, each more delicious than the last. The most popular ones include:

• Plain (Sugar-Coated): The original and still a classic, lightly dusted with sugar. • Cinnamon-Coated: For a spicier twist, the cinnamon coating adds a warm, comforting flavor. • Li Hing: Coated with a sweet and tangy Li Hing powder, adding a unique local flair.

When it comes to filled malasadas, the options are just as enticing:

• Custard: A creamy vanilla custard that pairs perfectly with the soft dough. • Haupia (Coconut): A rich coconut filling that brings a taste of the islands in every bite. • Dobash (Chocolate): For chocolate lovers, this is the one to try—smooth, rich, and utterly satisfying. • Macadamia: The macadamia malasadas are a standout, filled with a rich, creamy macadamia nut filling that’s simply divine. The nutty sweetness of the macadamia adds a luxurious touch, making this a must-try for anyone visiting Leonard’s.

Quality & Freshness: The quality of the malasadas at Leonard’s is second to none. They are made fresh throughout the day, ensuring that each one is served at its best. The dough is perfectly balanced, not too sweet, and the fillings are rich and flavorful without being overwhelming.

Service & Atmosphere: Leonard’s Bakery has a charming, old-school vibe that adds to the overall experience. The staff is friendly and efficient, keeping the long lines moving quickly. Despite the popularity, the wait is usually manageable, and it’s well worth it.

Overall: Leonard’s Bakery is an iconic spot in Honolulu, and their malasadas live up to all the hype. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or indulging in a sweet treat, you won’t be disappointed. With so many flavors and types to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Don’t leave Oahu without trying these—you’ll be dreaming of them long after you leave!

This version includes the rich, creamy taste of the macadamia malasadas, emphasizing their unique and...

Leonard’s Bakery: A Taste of Tradition in Waikiki

Leonard’s Bakery, nestled in Honolulu’s Kapahulu Avenue, has been a cherished institution since 1952, renowned for introducing malasadas—a Portuguese-style donut—to Hawaii. These golden-brown, sugar-coated treats are celebrated for their light, fluffy interiors and slightly crisp exteriors. 

During our visit, I opted for the original malasada without filling and was delighted by its simplicity and freshness. The warm, pillowy dough, lightly dusted with sugar, offered a comforting sweetness that resonated with traditional donut lovers. My wife, on the other hand, sampled a variety of filled malasadas but found the warm fillings a bit unexpected, which slightly diminished her overall enjoyment. 

It’s worth noting that while Leonard’s has garnered a significant following, some patrons feel that the widespread acclaim might overshadow the actual quality of the donuts. This sentiment isn’t uncommon, as many donut establishments, from Round Rock Donuts to Krispy Kreme and Voodoo Doughnut, often experience similar hype.

For those seeking a unique donut experience beyond Oahu, Paradise Bakery Hawaii in Kona on the Big Island is a hidden gem. Located within the Kona International Market food court, this bakery offers a delightful array of freshly made donuts and malasadas. Patrons frequently praise the friendly service and the bakery’s commitment to using seasonal fruits in their creations. One reviewer noted, “This bakery is amazing. Delicious donuts, cinnamon buns, pastries. The owner has a farm & uses fruits in season for his donuts & pastries. All freshly made.” Despite the distance—approximately 3,737 miles away—it’s a spot I’d eagerly revisit. 

In conclusion, while Leonard’s Bakery offers a nostalgic and classic malasada experience in Waikiki, those venturing to the Big Island might find Paradise Bakery Hawaii to be a delightful alternative...