Magnolia Bakery Cafe Now Open!!

Magnolia Bakery started off in NYC and now has locations all over the world.  The bakery is famous for its cupcakes and banana pudding.  When I was in Tokyo last month, I had my first taste of the banana pudding and LOVED it.  I was over the moon about the opening of its first cafe in the nation right here in Hawaii.  Do you know how long I've wished for a NYC bakery to open up in Hawaii?  Forever!  There really is no other place like it in the islands.  It's such a cute eatery and its vintage charm totally reminds me of the bake shops in NYC.

I showed up early the day after the cafe opened and was the third in line for a table.  From the get go, the service was outstanding.  We knew they had just opened and were prepared for any hiccups.  The first was a late delivery resulting in no pancakes, french toast, scones or muffins.  That was a bummer because I really wanted to try their apple dutch baby and hummingbird pancakes.  I settled on a bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit sandwich and shared the carmelized onion and bacon 'nolia pie with my friend. 

Both the biscuit and bacon were delicious.

The 'nolia pie is an open face tart with a super flakey crust.  Loved the carmelized onions in this one!

The biscuits here are very tasty and the bacon is nice and thick.  The 'nolia pie was delicious!  The crust was buttery and flakey and the carmelized onions really added some great flavor.  Our server came by and updated us that the french toast was now available so we ordered the apple ones.  So fluffy!  Would definitely order again.

Brioche and egg custard is used for the Magnolia french toast.

I LOVE that breakfast is served all day here and that they offer a good selection of egg dishes, skillets, pancakes and french toast as well as lunch and dinner items like salads and sandwiches.  I also love that they think about families and have a kids corner on their menu.    

We expected the service to be slow, but it wasn't the service.  It was the food.  I think the kitchen struggled to keep up with the demand of the cafe's patrons.  At one point, half the restaurant's tables were empty while there was a lengthy line outside which I can understand is frustrating for customers.  But I think they were just letting the kitchen catch up.  Even the bakery outside had to close for a little while to restock.  At least they restock.  Most donut places close up shop when they sell out.

I plan to come back many times so I can sample the entire menu.  I love the bright and cheery decor and the casual atmosphere.  I just hope they take reservations in the future.

Magnolia Bakery Cafe

Ala Moana Center Ewa Wing

Hours:  Monday-Saturday 9:30am-9pm; Sundays 10am-7pm