OUR STORY

Rooted in Love, Growing with Community

Baking and it’s many wonderful, varied aspects has always been a lifelong love for Maria Short. She discovered the magic of mixing flour, butter, sugar and eggs to create something delicious at an early age. She continued to pursue her interest by attending Baltimore International Culinary College and then graduating from L’Academie de Cuisine’s Pastry Arts program with honors. Maria has worked as a pastry chef in restaurants, catering companies and patisseries. She has also worked as a pastry chef instructor, teaching Merchant Marines how to bake. 

It was while Maria was teaching that she met her husband, Dien, a Merchant Marine who worked as a chief steward. Dien was raised in Hawaii and left after high school to travel and see the world.  He traveled extensively in Asia, Polynesia, South and Central America, Europe and even Africa, but always considered Hawaii his home.

In 2004, they opened Short N Sweet Bakery & Cafe in Hawi.  Then in 2010 Short N Sweet moved to a much larger facility in Hilo.  With the extra space they were able to expand their menu and offerings, adding artisan breads, croissants and bagels. 

In 2022 Short N Sweet Bakery Cafe moved to it’s current location in the Hilo Shopping Center where our valued customers enjoy ample parking and a covered lanai for dining.

Short N Sweet Bakery Cafe has been part of the Hilo community for over two decades, known for our signature cakes, pastries, and warm aloha spirit. What started as a shared dream between Maria and Dien Short has grown into a beloved local staple—thanks to the dedication of our incredible team and the continued support of our customers.

While Maria and Dien have since gone their separate ways personally, their shared legacy lives on in the bakery’s foundation. Today, Maria leads Short N Sweet with creativity, heart, and a commitment to honoring the values that shaped this place from the beginning: quality, community, and a love for good food made from scratch.

Short N Sweet is more than a bakery—it’s a celebration of life's sweetest moments. Whether you're picking up a birthday cake, enjoying lunch with friends, or grabbing your morning coffee, we’re here to make every visit a little brighter and a lot more delicious.

From our ohana to yours—mahalo for being part of our journey.

– Maria Short & the Short N Sweet Team