Maui Bake Shop
In a 100-year-old building with a massive brick oven, pastry chef Jose Krall turns out decent breads, delectable pastries, satisfying breakfasts and savory sandwiches. Closed for several years before its recent renovation, expansion and reopening, Maui Bake Shop is even better than before.
Now, in addition to faultless croissants and Italian espresso, you can enjoy a Monte Cristo (!!) or a crab Benedict for breakfast, along with excellent coffee. James’s heart nearly stopped the first time we found a complimentary, fresh Wall Street Journal on our Saturday morning breakfast table. If you’re heading out for a morning hike in Iao Valley, this is the place to come for breakfast beforehand. Or stop for a hearty French dip or pastrami sandwich for lunch afterwards. Or do both. The menu is large enough to explore over a couple of visits.
We can’t say enough about the pastries, which are European (don’t look for a big pie or cake — tarts and tortes are the norm). Beautiful and yummy: we love the macaroons, and the checkerboard cookies, and the strawberry shortcake … and … and … and during the holiday season, there are yule logs, marzipan animals, and breads shaped like crabs!
The lines can get long, and the same person taking your order is likely to bring it to your table, so things can slow down — but, still, it is definitely worth a stop.
Address: 2092 West Vineyard St., Wailuku, Central Maui
Location: At the corner of North Church Street
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hours: M-Sat 6am-2pm
Parking: Street, Lot
Phone: 808-242-0064