10 Reasons Locals & Visitors Love Short N Sweet Café & Bakery

When it comes to finding the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dessert in Hilo, Hawaii, Short N Sweet Café & Bakery has become a local favorite and a must-visit destination for travelers. From our award-winning cakes to our welcoming atmosphere, there are plenty of reasons we’re proud to be known as one of the best bakeries on the Big Island. Here are the top 10 reasons locals and visitors love us.

1. Breakfast That Starts Your Day Right

Our café opens bright and early with island-inspired breakfasts that fuel your day—whether it’s fresh fruit bowls, breakfast paninis, or warm pastries paired with Big Island Roaster’s coffee and Espresso.

2. Lunch That Hits the Spot

From crisp salads to hearty paninis, our lunch menu is a go-to for both quick bites and leisurely midday breaks. If you’re looking for the best lunch in Hilo, Hawaii, you’ll find it here.

3. Desserts Made to Impress

Cookies, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and signature sweets like our viral Dubai Bar make dessert irresistible. Maria’s creativity keeps our pastry case stocked with both classic favorites and innovative treats.

4. Custom Cakes for Every Occasion

Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or “just because,” our custom cakes are legendary. Maria and her team bring your vision to life with flavors, artistry, and island flair.

5. Breakfast Catering That Makes Mornings Easy

Planning a meeting, event, or employee celebration? Our catering menus make it simple to wow your guests with everything from continental breakfasts to deluxe dessert platters. No stress, just ono food.

6. A Welcoming Hilo Café Atmosphere

Our bakery café isn’t just about food—it’s a gathering place. With friendly service and a warm atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot where locals linger and visitors feel at home.

7. National & Local Recognition

Short N Sweet has been featured in Eater’s Best Restaurants in Hilo, as well as on the Travel Channel’s Delicious Destinations, in Pacific Weddings, and in Honolulu Magazine. Most recently, we’ve proudly been voted one of the Best Bakeries on Hawai‘i Island by HAWAII Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards—every year since 2021.

8. Maria’s Talent & Experience

Our founder, Maria, is the heart and soul of Short N Sweet. With years of experience, a fearless creative streak, and a passion for community, her creations have earned national attention and loyal fans across the Big Island.

9. Local Love & Community Connection

We’re more than a bakery—we’re part of Hilo’s fabric. From school fundraisers to local events, we’re committed to giving back and celebrating life’s sweetest moments with our community.

10. Award-Winning Bakery with Heart

At the end of the day, what makes Short N Sweet special is simple: we bake with love. That’s why we’re consistently named among the best bakeries in Hawaii and why customers return again and again.

Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, planning your wedding cake, or looking for the best bakery café in Hilo, we can’t wait to welcome you. Come see why Short N Sweet has captured hearts—and taste buds—across Hawai‘i Island.