The Story Behind Short N Sweet’s Viral Dubai Bar
If you're looking for a dessert that’s as rich in flavor as it is in story, look no further than the Dubai Bar at Short N Sweet Bakery Cafe in Hilo. This viral sensation has quickly become a must-try treat in Hilo—and it's all thanks to Maria’s inventive spirit and her incredible team.
What Is the Dubai Bar — And Why Is It So Viral?
Originating in Dubai, the Dubai Bar blends luxurious Middle Eastern flavors with modern dessert craftsmanship. It features:
A milk chocolate shell that encases a creamy, nutty pistachio–tahini paste
A crunchy layer of knafeh/kataifi (shredded phyllo pastry) for texture
The result? A treat whose soft and crunchy contrast, combined with its striking green filling, made it a social media darling—especially on TikTok and Instagram—propelling global demand and inspiring adaptations worldwide.
How Maria Makes the Dubai Bar Her Own
At Short N Sweet, Maria has taken this viral dessert and brought it home to Hilo—infusing it with made-from-scratch care and quality ingredients. Using her deep knowledge and creative flair, she’s transformed it into a standout, viral-worthy treat “the Big Island can enjoy.” Customers return not just for flavor, but for the story and craftsmanship behind each bar.
One local reviewer captured it perfectly:
“If you appreciate quality ingredients and craftsmanship… you’ll appreciate what you get for what you pay at Short N Sweet Bakery & Cafe when it comes to their Viral Dubai Chocolate Bar.” - Hawaii Mom Blog
Why the Dubai Bar Is Unlike Anything Else
What makes Short N Sweet’s Dubai Bar special—beyond its flavor—is how it balances:
Decadent textures: A luscious pistachio–tahini center paired with flaky kataifi and enveloped in smooth chocolate
Aesthetic allure: Its vivid green interior and glossy chocolate shell make it irresistibly photogenic, especially when topped with gold—perfect for social sharing
Cultural fusion: It’s a delicious intersection of Middle Eastern tradition and modern dessert innovation, deeply rooted in Maria’s creative exploration
How to Get Your Hands on the Dubai Bar
Short N Sweet makes it easy to experience this viral favorite. Stop by the cafe in Hilo to enjoy the Dubai Bar fresh—either with your coffee or as a standout dessert. They sell out quickly so call ahead if it’s the only sweet that will satisfy your cravings.
The Viral Sensation, Island-Style
The Dubai Bar’s fame started overseas, but it now has a home here, thanks to Maria. She’s transformed the international phenomenon into a local legend, offering not just a dessert—but a story, a sensory experience, and a sweet moment of connection on the Big Island. Maria passion in baking is fuled with creativity — so if you know of another viral treat that isn’t in Hawaii yet, ask Maria, she might be able to whip it up!