Honu Bakery

I walked in, 2 counter attendants were talking to each other. I proceeded to stop in front of them and looked at the items behind the glass. I was amazed, no greeting, no one asked if I needed help and in fact they did not pause their conversation. Wow pretty pastries. Sorry I can’t give you a comment on them, guess what I did. Yes I walked out. Please train your front end help.

I was excited at first when it opened a while back. I would some time to time come to honu bakery for their awesome pastries and drinks also their shave ice.
Their cakes are iconic in Korea and famous but pricey. But its pretty good and professional. Their desserts are so cute and outstanding.
Their workers are alright… except one time I felt discriminated by one worker. She kept calling me, «Girl»… Giving me looks… and IM like… woah!!! As a customer, I don’t expect you to judge me like that. So thats why now, i feel uncomfortable going back there and I wish that person would think first before she said anything. But I would try to understand Coz I know she’s still young. But if you’re going to work in a professional food industry business, you gotta show great customer service and most of all, don’t judge your customers by gender and giving names. I didn’t really appreciate that. The owner is very nice and kind. But for some others, I feel like they only smile when koreans come in but they don’t make others feel welcome or don’t even say hi at all. Cmon this is hawaii and most of all kalihi. If you’re going to want local customers keep coming back to you guys, please show some respect and much aloha. But thanks for the experience though…

Honu Bakery is located next to Fun Factory in Kam Shopping Center. It’s clean, cute and sports a decent amount of pastries, cakes, ice cream and other baked goods … so I know I’ll be back.
I first went to Honu to meet up with a friend for coffee … but, as it turned out, neither of us got coffee and just got pastries instead. There’s such a good assortment to choose from; it was really hard to decide on just one!
I was a fan of the brightly lit interior and the great selection of baked goods. I was assured that all breads were baked fresh and I liked how some of the day-​old ones were discounted (like some of the donuts that were still good but not baked a few hours ago). BONUS: This location sells Bubbie’s ice cream and the famous mochi ice cream as well. I didn’t get any on this visit, but I’ll be sure to get some in the future.
The two girls behind the counter didn’t go out of their way to help me, but they were pleasant and answered all of my questions about the pastry selection.
Here’s what my friend and I got during our visit:
«Chocolate Ganache Cake»: After much contemplation, I settled on a slice of the chocolate ganache cake that was simply calling my name from inside the display case. The girl behind the counter said the cake had a delicious chocolate flavor, but it wasn’t overly sweet. I was pleased with the overall result and this chocolate slice functioned well as my lunch. It was light and spongy, even though I actually prefer denser, super rich chocolate cakes. It was airy in texture and not super moist, but it satisfied my craving for something sweet. I liked the chocolate ganache rim on top; my friend had a bite and said she liked it because it wasn’t overly sweet. Definitely would order this again, but I can’t wait to try some of the other pastries featured.
«Taro Cheesecake»: My friend loves all things taro so I knew she would like this cheesecake. After all, it’s not every day that you find a bakery that offers this option. Like most Asian pastries, this cheesecake wasn’t overly sweet but my friend said she could definitely taste the taro. I don’t think the taro was overwhelming or really prevalent, but it’s a good treat if you’re looking for something light and not so chocolaty.
«Cookies and Cream Cupcake»: I was eyeing the cupcakes for a really long time and contemplated getting one … and later on, I ended up trying the «Cookies and Cream» cupcake. Since it’s hot in my house, I let it sit in my fridge, so although that may have made it slightly less moist, I didn’t mind. I liked the frosting – which really did have ground-​up cookies in it – and the cake’s chocolate flavor. The cupcake-​to-​frosting ratio was pretty even (didn’t feel like the cupcake was too dry or needed more frosting). I wouldn’t be opposed to getting this again, but I really do want to try the «Choco Bear» or «Panda Bear» cupcakes that are also available.
«Turtle Bread»: My mom bought this bread to share at a group dinner sometime after my initial visit because I raved about the bakery. This is Honu’s signature bread, known for its texture, flavor and raisin filling. The bread was soft and moist, but since I actually prefer plain bread, it wasn’t my favorite. She said everyone at their group gathering enjoyed the bread, though, so I’m sure it’s a big hit. It’s called «Turtle Bread» because the bread is wavy and sort of resembles a turtle’s shell.
«Maple Bacon Donut»: This donut flavor caught my attention during my visit, but since I wanted something chocolaty, I refrained from getting it. But, if some of those donuts are available at a discounted price ever again, I’m totally getting one. I liked the look of this donut because it seemed to have a good amount of maple glaze on it, but it did include some hearty chunks of bacon. I’m always on the lookout for this salty-​sweet alternative, so definitely going to try it one day.
«Mocha Breeze»: I was told that the «Breeze» drinks here are like frappuccinos, so naturally, the first one up to try for me would be a chocolate one. If it’s a hot day and I’m craving something cold, I would probably get this drink or settle for one of the Bubbie’s ice cream flavors.

This is a review on the turtle bread only. I honestly have never even been to the store front but as a preschool teacher I have had a few amazing parents that always treat me and my class with turtle bread.
I wasn’t going to write a review (seeing as how I’ve never been here and all I’ve tried is the bread) but every review that mentioned turtle bread didn’t describe it right or do it justice so here I am to set the record straight.
It comes in a bag with 13 pull apart pieces that are about the size of small dinner rolls but together look like a turtle shell. Pull a piece of the shell off and you get a mini sandwich of heaven. The top is dotted with slivered almonds and what look like tiny streusal bits, but aren’t really that sweet. The bread is Über soft and fluffy and gives way to the delicious sandwich center. Inside is what I can only describe as a butter cream. It’s not really whipped cream, and definitely not cream cheese as other reviewers have said (how do I know? I have one of these angelic treats in my mouth right now). It is the consistency and flavor of butter, but sweeter, so I compare it to authentic buttercream. Hidden in the thin layer of sweet buttercream are raisins and sugared chestnuts. Little surprises of delight when you find them, cause they are not in every bite.
Overall this makes a perfect breakfast, snack or dessert because it’s light and not overly sweet, but be careful, it’s so easy to scarf several «servings «all by yourself! :)

AMAZINGLY ADORABLE (and delicious!) BAKED GOODS! And convenient location! And great hours!
Bf and I were planning a picnic and I had everything down but dessert… It was too hot to bake anything, and I wanted to switch things up a bit and try something new. After reading the reviews for Honu Bakery, decided to buy a couple of cupcakes from here (specifically the panda and bear cupcakes). Perhaps cupcakes weren’t the best idea, however, as the frosting started to melt before we made it to dessert time despite our efforts to keep the cupcakes chilled in a cooler. Nevertheless, the cupcakes were so cute and mighty delicious! Bf thought the cupcakes were on the sweeter side, but I (with a crazy sweet tooth) loved the chocolatey-​ness and sweetness.
Thoroughly pleased with both the design and taste of the cupcakes, and again wanting to try something different and original, I decided to order a cake from Honu Bakery for bf’s birthday. After much pondering, finally chose the strawberry shortcake, and what an awesome choice that was (thank you to the sales girl who suggested the strawberry shortcake over the tiramisu)! The cake was lovely and a hit among everyone!
The cakes are available starting at 11AM, so if you want a cake (you DEFINITELY want a cake) it’s best to pre-​order to ensure that the flavor of your choice (with a design of your choice too upon request) will be available for pick-​up. When you pick up your cake, you’re given a choice of long or short candles and they give you a complimentary cake knife. LOVE THIS PLACE! The cakes and baked goods in general are a little pricey, but totally worth the extra cost. Planning to return very soon!!!
UPDATE (10.10.15)
Sister just wanted a strawberry pie for her bday, but decided that a strawberry shortcake shaped like a doggy from Honu Bakery would be much more adorable and appropriate. Was so right– the cake impressed not only my sister, but also my entire family… They RAVED about how light and delicious the cake was, and ADORED its doggy form.
It’s only two days after her bday, and we’re almost pau with the cake! That’s one good cake!!!
Sadly, however, I ran into some ordering problems. The girl who took my order two days before I picked up the cake (always preorder cakes!!) got my card number wrong, so she called back and asked for the card number again. Then she got the order wrong, so she called back a second time to inform me that she refunded me. Everything ended up working out just fine though, so no biggie.
Despite the ordering issue, definitely returning!!! Wholly impressed by the tastiness and quality of the baked goods and happy that there are so many holidays coming up (and therefore so many reasons to enjoy more sweets from the bakery)!

First time in the store and I was really impressed how clean and organized it was. The staffs were pleasant and polite.
The cakes are so cute but little pricey.
Small round vanilla cake is $ 22 whole
Medium/​Large $ 27 whole (size aren’t that big)
The taste is so light, not sweet its alright but for me too expensive for that kind of cake and taste.
Tried the cupcakes. The panda choco cupcake was delicious. It was moist and not too sweet. And i love it. Then i tried the cheesecake cupcake with fruit (strawberry and kiwi) on top. Mmm YuM! My new fave now. It was so light and not sweet. Just the way I like it.

Pricey. The cream puff was heavier than I expected. Having just had one from Liliha Bakery 2 days ago, I prefer the Liliha one which (to my surprise) seemed lighter to me. I think it’s a matter of preference. This bakery is tasty, we also had some doughnuts, and the coconut milk tea (with coconut jellies) was sweet and rich, and a fried sesame mochi (a first time for us). While the food was good, it was just a bit too heavy (greasy and dense) not only in my stomach, but also on our wallet.

«I wasn’t looking, but somehow you found me…»
All I wanted was a Blended Frap so I could get my Bonus Stars! It was the last day of the Starbucks promotion, so I used my Unilocal app and went to the nearest Starbucks at the Kamehameha Shopping Center. I rarely go to this area because the parking seems so crowded. So, I wasn’t surprised that I had to circle the lot in search of a parking space. As I made my way around the shops, I saw the sign for Honu Bakery. Where did I hear of that name before? I kept pondering as I ordered my drink at Starbucks. I figured I should just take a look… since I’m here… It was haunting me…
Oh wow. So cute! I had to take pictures! Of course I won’t eat the Hello Kitty cakes or the Teddy Bear cupcakes — that’s like cannibalism! LOL! I did have a Taro Doughnut for my friend, Dana! Yummy! There’s a moist taro filling that’s not too sweet! I also had a savory Ham & Onion Bun — LIKE! I’ll go back and have more later. My friend recommended the Turtle Bread (this is what they are known for) — okay, it’s on my list! And I heard about the delicious drinks — next time! I just had to run in and run out before I lost control!
Honu («turtle» in Hawaiian) Bakery is related to the Boulangerie Bakery on King Street. I had never ventured into either bakeries before because I know I’ll get into trouble! This bigger location is so new, bright, and clean! The modern environment makes everything look better! Just take a tray and a pair of tongs and help yourself to the wrapped and unwrapped pastries. Bring your selections to the cash register, and the friendly employees will wrap up your goodies and total up the bill. Easy!
Now that this bakery found me, I can conveniently return when I need a Baskin-​Robbins fix or have an errand to run at Longs. The free, covered parking is a definite bonus to this location! Enough said!

MY REVIEW IS BASED ON TODAY’S VISIT: I’ve been coming here for so many times now, mostly for the black milk tea. Today’s visit was the worst. It wasn’t busy, there were 2 workers by the cashier. But it took awhile for them to notice a customer walked in. AND they kept arguing about who should take my order. When one of them came, she didn’t say a word to me. Told her my order, gave my card, took my drink and I left annoyed.
But my previous visits here are great! This other worker Maricris, is always so friendly. She is a great example of good customer service. She made my previous visits here, very nice and enjoyable.

First time at Honu Bakery Kam Shopping Center — Spacious seating area right pas all the «goodies», there’s trays N tongs so it’s a pick ur own «goodies»…a + is that the place is clean «goodies» R displayed nicely N labeled! Love the «red bean» pastries” I love the flaky crust ones Yummy 4 my tummy! They have a selection of teas N yes U can get coffee there too or yes lets not 4get «milk» too… The «women» who were behind the counter were friendly N this is an added as well Bcuz working w/​customer’s all day (ur 8hr shift) is pretty hard 2 do w/​a «sunny» disposition N being on ur «feeties» all day so a «shout» out 2 ALL the «happy/​sunny/​smiley/​cheery clerks — Mahalo… So, this is why 5 stars N the «goodies» I got was very tasty — finger lickin’ thumbs up yum

A bakery is exactly what Kam Shopping Center lacked, so it’s nice for Honu Bakery to fill the void! If you’re familiar with Boulangerie Bakery, Honu is basically its sister. The cute cakes are not only captivating, but also really tasty. It’s «Asian» style, so while it looks heavy and sweet it’s actually quite light and the texture is soft and bouncy.
Prices are not exactly cheap, but they seem to use fine ingredients so I don’t mind paying a little more.

The first time I came here was last year was when they first opened. The window display is what caught my attention, I didn’t know there had been a bakery that opened and I couldn’t resist to go inside to check out the different items they had. I didn’t buy anything at the time since I was in a rush.
I went recently to buy a cake for my mom. I had actually called before coming to make sure they had any in stock. I ordered the small hello kitty cake for $ 15. Its the cutest thing. When I arrived there, I was surprised it was already ready for me to pick up. I had ask if they had something that says Happy Birthday and the guy offered to put a chocolate Happy Birthday sign on it along with birthday candles as well. Very friendly and helpful for my first time actually buying something from there.
The ambiance is clean and welcoming. They have a wide variety of desserts and drinks. Their cake designs are the cutest. This would be a good place to hang out with friends or even get a quick bite to eat.

love their Turtle Bread.
Parking is not that bad.
No Wifi.

I work nearby and I never would’ve guessed that there would be such a cute bakery in kam shopping center. As soon as you walk in you’re welcomed by a big glass display case of animal shaped cupcakes and fancy fruit filled pastries and the aroma of freshly baked delicious-​ness. They also sell coffee and other bakery-​esque items which is a nice change from the other fried food places you’ll find in kalihi. They even had hello kitty lookalike cakes which I’ll definitely keep in mind for whoever’s birthday is coming up!
The only thing I would point out is that those cupcakes are sooo cute and I’m sure it took a lot of time to make, but 3.50 for a cupcake is a little high for kalihi. And aside from that, their beautiful cakes including the hello kitty looking one didn’t have a price next to them. Which is intimidating to even ask if even their cupcakes are that price.
Overall I’d recommend checking it out! Their cakes are definitely good looking, you can decide for yourself if the prices are worth it :)

The bakery that makes the famous Turtle Bread has finally opened up a large location. How lucky of Kamehameha Shopping Center in Kalihi to house this new bakery! I was really impressed when I first visited Honu Bakery because of the nice, clean, well-​decorated, well-​lit interior and the variety of baked goods available. Their bottom shelves are lined with bags of Turtle Bread, which is the soft bread the size of the standard dinner roll filled with a light cream. I guess they’re called «Turtle Bread» because they look like a bag full of turtle shells.
In addition to their ready-​made Turtle Bread, they have multiple shelves lined with pastries that you can choose yourself. They vary from Castella to cookies, rolls and Belgian waffles. In their refrigerated cases, they have the cutest cupcakes, cakes and cheesecake. All of them are elaborately decorated with panda heads, fruit and Hello Kitty heads. In addition to all of that yumminess, they serve Bubbies mochi ice cream and have a large drink menu that consists of coffee, tea, and milk tea.
Their prices aren’t the lowest but reasonably so with all of the work they put into their great tasting and beautifully decorated baked goods. My only gripe is that they’re pretty skimpy on the milk tea. I’ve had both the small and large sized milk tea and both cups are practically the same size; the large pretty much has a couple of ounces over the small. Also, the tea is never filled to the brim. What’s up with that?! Otherwise, Honu Bakery is awesome, has a lot to offer, their customer service is good and they have a pretty large seating area in the bakery for patrons.

Turtle, pandas, and bears, OH MY! What a cute shop with pretty designs and shapes. Located by Fun Factory in Kam Shopping Center.
So many selection with so many flavors. Yes, it’s pretty bread/pastry…but it’s quite expensive. Aside from that, it wasn’t even that good. It was just sweet. That’s all I tasted. It was a come and go thing… bye bakery.

Honu Bakery is the new Boulangerie bakery located in Kam shopping center. This is their second location. I knew about it about 3 months back. Honestly, I was hesitant because of the location and I haven’t been to kam shopping center in 20 years even though this is a small island. Anyhow, parking was very convenient. Kam shopping center has plenty parking. I didn’t realize so many eateries exist there too!
Going back to Honu bakery. This location is about 3 or 4 times bigger than King street. They have sitting area so you can hangout. Atmosphere is so much cheerful and friendlier than other location. It must be the vibrant young workers who work together as a team and helping each other as they were ringing me up and boxing my sweet goods. I bought some chocolate rolls which are like castella rolls and buns with cream cheese. I always appreciate attentiveness and efficient service.
I will definitely come here instead of the other location now that it’s much closer to home.

Location:
The bakery is located in the Kamehameha Shopping Center in Kalihi near Longs Drugs and Fun Factory. There are tons of parking at the shopping center.
Food:
The bakery had a variety of cupcakes, cakes, cheesecakes, bread, coffee, tea and they also serve Bubbies ice cream. I was excited about the pastry selection but was shortly disappointed by the lack of food choices. I was hungry for lunch and I was hoping for a pastry with meat filling. They only had a hot dog pastry. That’s it? I thought this place would be similar to Saint Germain’s style.
I ended up choosing a chocolate croissant, green tea cheesecake, soufflé cheesecake and their famous turtle bread,
The turtle bread was okay. There is cream cheese in the middle and almond slivers on the top. The soufflé cheesecake is pretty but it was dry. I was not a fan of the green tea cheesecake. It was the green matcha powder on top of the cheesecake and not green tea infused into the cake. The chocolate croissant was delicious. It was flaky, decently sized but minimal chocolate inside.
Price:
The prices are average compared to similar bakeries around Oahu.
Ambiance:
The bakery is new so it feels clean and it’s nicely decorated with a turtle wall art. There is a decent amount of seating.
Overall, the bakery is okay and I’m glad I got to try it.

Honu Bakery, Sister to Boulangerie Bakery on King Street
NEW bake shop in Kamehameha Shopping Center. CLEAN, BRIGHT, SPACIOUS,
I’ve had the King Street pastries so I know they are delicious. They are famous for what is known as «Turtle Bread». Bread filled with butter and raisins and a sweet white bean then covered with a light butter topping.
They have many other items to select from. Please know they are not the cheapest in town but their delicacies stand up to its price.
5^th Star given to the owner Mr. Yang (I think that’s his name) who is very polite and humble toward all of his new patrons. He also commented about «the power of Unilocal» as I stood there and took my pictures. I wish him and his bakery well wishes.

It’s rare to find quality businesses opening up in Kam Shopping Center where businesses are constantly rotating in and out. I was pleased to see Honu bakery open this week in the middle stretch between Times and Longs.
The interior is really nice and comfortable. It would make for a great place to come and get some reading done. The owner here is very friendly and welcoming as well.
They offer a large variety of baked goods along with a full coffee bar, shave ice, bubbies ice cream and plenty of tea options.
Overall, this might be one of the best bakery/​cafes on the island, and it is certainly the best in Kalhi. I’ll definitely be returning here.