Samples of cookies and crackers? I’m there! A couple weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting some of our local Hawaiian vendors on Oahu. Many Maui Wowi retail locations currently carry a variety of authentic Hawaiian products such as teas and cookies that might otherwise be difficult to get on the Mainland. I was sent to reconnect with these companies and see firsthand how the products are made.
First up, Diamond Bakery! Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, Diamond Bakery has been in business for almost 95 years…and now I know why! This company bakes fresh cookies and crackers with ‘Heartwarming Aloha’ and you can taste it.
I arrived at the facility where I was greeted by the Marketing and Sales Manager who showed me a short video about the history of the company. It was founded in 1921 by three Japanese migrants who set out to create the best bakery in Hawaii. They named their company after Diamond Head, a famous local landmark. Over time, Diamond Bakery mastered the art of crafting the perfect crackers and cookies, which have become loved by locals and visitors alike. The Saloon Pilot Crackers are their most popular item. They are similar to saltines, except heartier and sturdier and pair perfectly with a bowl of chili or chicken noodle soup.
Their cookies on the other hand, are sweet and delectable. As we took a tour of the factory, donning a fashionable hairnet of course, I got to see how the dough is made, baked, and packaged into bags of cookies in flavors such as Maui Sugar, Candy Bead, and Chocolate Chip. The machines were loud and the ovens were hot but the product at the end of the line was delicious!
I learned a lot about the quality of the company and its values. They are a supporter of the American Heart Association as well as the USO, which they partner with to donate product to soldiers overseas for a little taste of Aloha. They are also heavily involved in the community, supporting marine conservation and local food banks.
Maui Wowi is proud to offer Diamond Bakery products in our stores and look forward to future opportunities to help spread ‘Heartwarming Aloha.’
Stay tuned to find out what other factory I visited…