Big Island Candies
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It may be called "Big Island Candies", but you need to come for the cookies! The treats here make for perfect gifts as most of them are packed in classy and durable boxes that won't get crushed in your luggage. Even if you don't need to pick up gifts for anyone, of course there's no shame in purchasing a few boxes of cookies for yourself! Prices may seem relatively high, but since you can only get these in Hawaii, it's all about the authenticity. My personal favorite is the dark chocolate-dipped coffee shortbread, so I got a whole box of those. They contain specks of real Kona coffee beans! 17 cookies (packed by weight) was $19.75. The shortbread is buttery and crispy while the chocolate adds a perfect rich finish. In my opinion, there's no contest between these and those sold by the Honolulu Cookie Company. Many of the cookies have a macadamia shortbread base, but for those who can't have nuts, I saw that they also had options like pineapple, lemon and butter shortbread. Many of their boxes contain a variety of different cookie flavors which is perfect if you're seeking an assortment. Service was extremely friendly. Upon entry, we were greeted with a shortbread sample, which I enjoyed while browsing the store. One employee kindly helped me find a particular cookie flavor I was looking for, and at checkout, they provide a free wrapped cookie per person. As a reward program, for every $100 spent, you get $5.00 off. It may be a small discount, but I am telling you, the cookies are totally worth it regardless! 4.75 stars.
This long established business has been around for a very king time and they never disappoint. This location at a Moana Center by Center Stage is a nice size and has a lovely lady at the entrance handing out samples. I was looking for a thank you gift, two anniversary goody bags and a "just because" treat for my niece (haupia bark). This place was so nicely decorated with flowers that I actually felt like I was outdoors and not in a shop. No matter what you're looking for, if the recipient has a sweet tooth, this is the place to go. PS I meant to ask why it's called Big Island Candies when their sweets are cookies....
Great selections of cookies, candies, etc. They offer samples at the front and if you want to sample other cookies, you can ask one of the staff members. All their items are wrapped and presented very nicely. Great for souvenirs. Everything was well organized and displayed. Staff were very friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming. Prices are kinda pricey. Qualities of their cookies are good. I bought many different ones to try.
Been here countless times when here for vacation and work. The colorful boxes are by itself enough to want to buy their goodies in which they are known for their various cookies. I actually prefer this retail shop over their main production and retail location in Hilo. I was finally able to use up my rewards card where I had the choice of the logo insulated bag or $5 off of what I purchased.
My favorite cookies and brownies!! Chocolate taste so good Cookies taste so fresh and crunchy Loved this cute package for Valentine's Day gift box!
Update on Big Island candies decided to go there before I head to Vegas just a little Omiyage (Gift) I always bring a little token from Hawaii to give the front desk worker when I check into my hotel room . This is only me I try to bring something that they cannot get in Vegas . I know there no Big Island Candies that I can think of ? There's Honolulu cookie company and Cookie Corner . Support local
Don't fall for other brands or companies that offer shortbreads, baked treats, or chocolates, as Big Island Candies should be your main go-to! Big Island's signature shortbreads are delicious, and, if you're a shortbread lover, try theirs - you will not be disappointed! They have a nice variety, such as: one with no nuts, pineapple, lemon, coconut, Kona mocha, chocolate chip macadamia nut, dipped in milk chocolate, dipped in white chocolate, taro, coffee, cinnamon white dipped, and peppermint white dipped. We picked up a few gift boxes of these for gifts. I'm a fan of their milk chocolate macadamia nut toffee, as it's crunchy and chewy, and oh-so-addicting! The staff here are super friendly and welcoming, and the check-out line is pretty efficient. If you're lucky, they also have some samplings! Located at the Ala Moana Center, there's plenty of parking. +delicious toffees +great shortbread varieties +friendly staff +located at the Ala Moana Center
Great Selection of quality cookies, staff are friendly, you can ask for samples to try the cookies . you free stuff when you shop $100 ;)
Fortuitously ran into some very special cookies (see uploaded photo with the Japanese female chef), while revisiting this place. They were not cheap by any standards, but for once in a lifetime experience, perhaps it was worth it. For those who truly know how to appreciate gourmet cookies should check it out and share their constructive comments with fellow Yelpers.
Locally loved... Big Island Candies is a classic and it's because they know how to capture us with their cookies that I remember back in the day I had to go Big Island to satisfy my cravings. So blessed to have them here in Ala Moana Center right now on the street level near the Centerstage with a sample greeting right at the door it's obvious we come here for various occasions including bring back their almond shortbread for the Lunar New Year and now with Sakura shaped cookies as the one sprinkled in pink sugar brings out the feeling of Spring. Various boxes and cute bags making it a great gift for anyone and the vibe in this store is quite crowded but with clear information of each item displayed making it easy to browse you're sure to leave here with a smile. Thank you!
Established in 1977 by Alan Ikawa and wife Irene, Big Island Candies began operations with just a chocolate melter and shrink wrap machine in a small warehouse in Hilo's industrial district. Alan and Irene grew up in Hilo, with Alan working with a Swiss pastry chef, which inspired them to start making candies such as mac nut chocolates. The business moved to a bigger store in 1989, and in the late 1990's, its first mail order catalog was launched, and the opening of its current flagship store/factory where visitors can watch the making of candies. In 2013, it opened its 1st permanent store outside of the Big Island, at the Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu. Big Island Candies often introduces new flavors and items which now totals 80+ products. With its signature milk chocolate diagonally dipped mac nut shortbread cookies, it also offers varies varieties of their mac nut shortbread, choc covered mac nut brownies, pineapple manju, cookies, biscotti, toffee, coffee, mac nuts, dipped ika, choc mints, tote bags, frozen apple pies (only at the Hilo location), and more. All products are made with the finest quality of ingredients, e.g., real butter and 100& Kona coffee, and high-grade chocolate. The concept behind Big Island Candies is the practice of "omiyage", which means "gift giving" in Japanese, and is ingrained in the culture in HI. The products are made with high quality ingredients, and its packaging is elegantly designed in sophisticated printed boxes by 4 in-house designers. There are limited editions of packaging designs that change seasonally, e.g., Golden Dragon boxes for the Chinese Lunar New Year. Products have a 6-to-8-week shelf life and should be consumed within 2 weeks of purchase, as no preservatives are used. I have given shortbread and chocolates as omiyage to friends on the Mainland and Japan, and all have commented on how delicious the items are, loved its high quality, and captivated by the exquisite package designs. They often tell me how they have to "ration" their eating of them to one a day so that they last longer! These products are surely excellent gifts for those who do not live here, as well as for locals, who never tire of the delicious cookies and candies. Big Island Candies also collaborates with other businesses, such as Eden in Love, in using their designs in offering cute canvas tote bags. It has also collaborated with local fashion designer Sig Zane, who incorporates authentic Hawaiian plant imagery in the Big Island Candies packaging. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. They are knowledgeable about the products and can easily offer suggestions if you're not sure what you want. Once I received a box of chocolates from a friend that was mailed to me, and the carrier had left it by the front door in the hot sun. Yes, it melted, and Big Island Candies happily replaced it with a new box, even if it was not their fault. They surely guarantee their products to be of a high standard. The store is clean, bright, and well designed with merchandise excellently and professionally displayed that is appealing to the eye. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, it is a pleasant experience just to browse through their displays. Don't forget to use their Mahalo punch card for your purchases. With a fully punched card, you get $5 off your purchase. Hours of operation are daily from 10a to 8p. They're located near the center stage on the ground level of the shopping center. Free parking available for shopping center customers. With the special attention given to all the products of Big Island Candies that result in a high quality and an excellence in their taste, I continue to give their products as gifts, knowing that the recipients will be thrilled to receive them! Support local!
A must visit for anyone visiting the islands or locals on island. Big island candies at Ala Moana is located on the first floor near the center stage. You're always greeted with samples at the door, usually a cookie and a chocolate sample. Their chocolate and cookies are made out of Hilo Hawaii and flown to Oahu. Locally made and always fresh. They have an assortment of treats such as macadamia nut shortbread cookies dipped in various chocolates, brownies, rocky road chocolates, macadamia nut chocolates, pineapple manju, chocolate mints and cute gift sets as well. I have a relative that needs to watch her sugar intake and they have excellent no sugar added brownies, cookies and macadamia nut chocolates. For myself, I love everything here but my favorites are the dark and milk chocolate dipped shortbread cookies and macadamia nut chocolates. These are fantastic gifts to buy if visiting the islands. i buy treats from here to bring as gifts when visiting folks outside of Hawaii and often buy them for myself to eat! read more
4 months ago
25 days ago
4 months ago
2 years ago
It may be called "Big Island Candies", but you need to come for the cookies! The treats here make for perfect gifts as most of them are packed in classy and durable boxes that won't get crushed in your luggage. Even if you don't need to pick up gifts for anyone, of course there's no shame in purchasing a few boxes of cookies for yourself! Prices may seem relatively high, but since you can only get these in Hawaii, it's all about the authenticity. My personal favorite is the dark chocolate-dipped coffee shortbread, so I got a whole box of those. They contain specks of real Kona coffee beans! 17 cookies (packed by weight) was $19.75. The shortbread is buttery and crispy while the chocolate adds a perfect rich finish. In my opinion, there's no contest between these and those sold by the Honolulu Cookie Company. Many of the cookies have a macadamia shortbread base, but for those who can't have nuts, I saw that they also had options like pineapple, lemon and butter shortbread. Many of their boxes contain a variety of different cookie flavors which is perfect if you're seeking an assortment. Service was extremely friendly. Upon entry, we were greeted with a shortbread sample, which I enjoyed while browsing the store. One employee kindly helped me find a particular cookie flavor I was looking for, and at checkout, they provide a free wrapped cookie per person. As a reward program, for every $100 spent, you get $5.00 off. It may be a small discount, but I am telling you, the cookies are totally worth it regardless! 4.75 stars. read more
5 months ago
1 year ago
This long established business has been around for a very king time and they never disappoint. This location at a Moana Center by Center Stage is a nice size and has a lovely lady at the entrance handing out samples. I was looking for a thank you gift, two anniversary goody bags and a "just because" treat for my niece (haupia bark). This place was so nicely decorated with flowers that I actually felt like I was outdoors and not in a shop. No matter what you're looking for, if the recipient has a sweet tooth, this is the place to go. PS I meant to ask why it's called Big Island Candies when their sweets are cookies.... read more
Great selections of cookies, candies, etc. They offer samples at the front and if you want to sample other cookies, you can ask one of the staff members. All their items are wrapped and presented very nicely. Great for souvenirs. Everything was well organized and displayed. Staff were very friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming. Prices are kinda pricey. Qualities of their cookies are good. I bought many different ones to try. read more
1 year ago
Been here countless times when here for vacation and work. The colorful boxes are by itself enough to want to buy their goodies in which they are known for their various cookies. I actually prefer this retail shop over their main production and retail location in Hilo. I was finally able to use up my rewards card where I had the choice of the logo insulated bag or $5 off of what I purchased. read more
9 months ago
Update on Big Island candies decided to go there before I head to Vegas just a little Omiyage (Gift) I always bring a little token from Hawaii to give the front desk worker when I check into my hotel room . This is only me I try to bring something that they cannot get in Vegas . I know there no Big Island Candies that I can think of ? There's Honolulu cookie company and Cookie Corner . Support local read more
Don't fall for other brands or companies that offer shortbreads, baked treats, or chocolates, as Big Island Candies should be your main go-to! Big Island's signature shortbreads are delicious, and, if you're a shortbread lover, try theirs - you will not be disappointed! They have a nice variety, such as: one with no nuts, pineapple, lemon, coconut, Kona mocha, chocolate chip macadamia nut, dipped in milk chocolate, dipped in white chocolate, taro, coffee, cinnamon white dipped, and peppermint white dipped. We picked up a few gift boxes of these for gifts. I'm a fan of their milk chocolate macadamia nut toffee, as it's crunchy and chewy, and oh-so-addicting! The staff here are super friendly and welcoming, and the check-out line is pretty efficient. If you're lucky, they also have some samplings! Located at the Ala Moana Center, there's plenty of parking. +delicious toffees +great shortbread varieties +friendly staff +located at the Ala Moana Center read more
Fortuitously ran into some very special cookies (see uploaded photo with the Japanese female chef), while revisiting this place. They were not cheap by any standards, but for once in a lifetime experience, perhaps it was worth it. For those who truly know how to appreciate gourmet cookies should check it out and share their constructive comments with fellow Yelpers. read more
5 months ago
Locally loved... Big Island Candies is a classic and it's because they know how to capture us with their cookies that I remember back in the day I had to go Big Island to satisfy my cravings. So blessed to have them here in Ala Moana Center right now on the street level near the Centerstage with a sample greeting right at the door it's obvious we come here for various occasions including bring back their almond shortbread for the Lunar New Year and now with Sakura shaped cookies as the one sprinkled in pink sugar brings out the feeling of Spring. Various boxes and cute bags making it a great gift for anyone and the vibe in this store is quite crowded but with clear information of each item displayed making it easy to browse you're sure to leave here with a smile. Thank you! read more
Established in 1977 by Alan Ikawa and wife Irene, Big Island Candies began operations with just a chocolate melter and shrink wrap machine in a small warehouse in Hilo's industrial district. Alan and Irene grew up in Hilo, with Alan working with a Swiss pastry chef, which inspired them to start making candies such as mac nut chocolates. The business moved to a bigger store in 1989, and in the late 1990's, its first mail order catalog was launched, and the opening of its current flagship store/factory where visitors can watch the making of candies. In 2013, it opened its 1st permanent store outside of the Big Island, at the Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu. Big Island Candies often introduces new flavors and items which now totals 80+ products. With its signature milk chocolate diagonally dipped mac nut shortbread cookies, it also offers varies varieties of their mac nut shortbread, choc covered mac nut brownies, pineapple manju, cookies, biscotti, toffee, coffee, mac nuts, dipped ika, choc mints, tote bags, frozen apple pies (only at the Hilo location), and more. All products are made with the finest quality of ingredients, e.g., real butter and 100& Kona coffee, and high-grade chocolate. The concept behind Big Island Candies is the practice of "omiyage", which means "gift giving" in Japanese, and is ingrained in the culture in HI. The products are made with high quality ingredients, and its packaging is elegantly designed in sophisticated printed boxes by 4 in-house designers. There are limited editions of packaging designs that change seasonally, e.g., Golden Dragon boxes for the Chinese Lunar New Year. Products have a 6-to-8-week shelf life and should be consumed within 2 weeks of purchase, as no preservatives are used. I have given shortbread and chocolates as omiyage to friends on the Mainland and Japan, and all have commented on how delicious the items are, loved its high quality, and captivated by the exquisite package designs. They often tell me how they have to "ration" their eating of them to one a day so that they last longer! These products are surely excellent gifts for those who do not live here, as well as for locals, who never tire of the delicious cookies and candies. Big Island Candies also collaborates with other businesses, such as Eden in Love, in using their designs in offering cute canvas tote bags. It has also collaborated with local fashion designer Sig Zane, who incorporates authentic Hawaiian plant imagery in the Big Island Candies packaging. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. They are knowledgeable about the products and can easily offer suggestions if you're not sure what you want. Once I received a box of chocolates from a friend that was mailed to me, and the carrier had left it by the front door in the hot sun. Yes, it melted, and Big Island Candies happily replaced it with a new box, even if it was not their fault. They surely guarantee their products to be of a high standard. The store is clean, bright, and well designed with merchandise excellently and professionally displayed that is appealing to the eye. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, it is a pleasant experience just to browse through their displays. Don't forget to use their Mahalo punch card for your purchases. With a fully punched card, you get $5 off your purchase. Hours of operation are daily from 10a to 8p. They're located near the center stage on the ground level of the shopping center. Free parking available for shopping center customers. With the special attention given to all the products of Big Island Candies that result in a high quality and an excellence in their taste, I continue to give their products as gifts, knowing that the recipients will be thrilled to receive them! Support local! read more
Everyone that I know loves this store, especially if they're a tourist. Big Island Candies have the best cookies and chocolates. I was passing by today and saw a huge Hello Kitty window display. They're currently promoting the pink Hello Kitty shirts. How adorable! I went in the store to get a better look. I received the best service. There was an associate standing by the door greeting customers and offering samples. She had chocolate chip cookies and chocolate covered potato chips. I walked around some more and they offered me more samples. I got a chocolate brownie sample and a lilikoi flavored one also. They were all delicious. The chocolate covered potato chips were my favorite. That sweet and salty mix was so good. They're most famous for their chocolate dipped shortbreads. It comes in so many varieties now. They have a limited time pink colored ones which is for breast cancer awareness month. read more
One of my friends recommended this shop, so we checked it out. It's located at Ala Moana Shopping Center and was a bit hard to find. At first, I didn't really see anything interesting, but entered a giveway and didn't win LOL. After inspecting the prize, I decided to buy the dark chocolate macadamia nut trio. It comes with crunch, rocky road, and crunchies! The crunchies is one of their specialties and has kettle chips inside! This was definitely unique- I liked the combination of sweet and salty! I loved getting the variety pack and will definitely come here every time I make a trip to Hawaii! read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
This is my go to spot when I bring my gifts to my mainland friends and colleagues. Especially during Christmas time, boxes are beautifully wrapped and impressive! Not only that, these cookies are to die for. I remember eating them as a kid when my family would mail it to us in Japan. If you spend over $100, you get $5 off which was a nice plus. I easily spent over $150 but I bought a variety of 6 boxes so I was happy. Line wrapped all around the store to pay. Workers were hustling and had the line moving along pretty quickly so it was a great experience! read more
3 years ago
Came across a Big Island Candies Apple Pie at Foodland oahu - i normally dont blow over $30 on a pie but ive heard so much about it and since its Christmas i decided to splurge as my taste buds were demanding the pie - and im very happy i did! This pie is very delicious! Yummy and tasteful with the buttery crust! Full of apples too! I do not regret the splurge at all and will prolly make it a habit to get this pie more often! read more
Big Island Candies is my favorite confectionery shop! It was originally in Hilo, Hawaii, where you're able to shop their factory. I'm so happy they brought it to Oahu. My favorite items to purchase are the season boxes with the different flavors. They have the most nicest decorative boxes, for gifts, or a gift for yourself! The store features shortbread cookies, brownies, chocolate bars and much more! You're greeted with samples as soon as you walk in. The staff is very helpful and friendly. I love the shortbread cookies, salted brownies, and chocolate covered cuttlefish. They have unique flavors tailored to Hawaii's natural fruits, which I love! Don't forget to grab a stamp card, and receive $5.00 off your next purchase! Happy Eats read more
2 years ago
9 months ago
2 years ago
Very nice works and place. Recommend if visiting and almost spent so much money here. Might go back before I leave and spend that Much. Delicious sweets. Service was great and got the help needed when I was confused. read more
Love BIC! What's not to love? Buttery shortbread! Luxurious Mac nuts. Chocolates- milk, dark and white.... I love their flagship store:/factory in Hilo but the Ala Moana store carries all the yummy things too! Samples given at the door as soon as you step inside the store. The everything shortbread was amazing! It is a seasonal flavor but I hope it becomes permanent! Mahalo also to Holly for providing exceptional customer service! read more
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More info about Big Island Candies
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Ste 1230
Honolulu, HI 96814
Ala Moana
Directions
(808) 946-9213
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http://www.bigislandcandies.com
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Ask the Community - Big Island Candies
Where in ala moana center are you located?
We are located on the ground level and on the mountain side of center stage. Look for the bright orange sign. Our neighbor is Manaola!
Does the Ala Moana location sell their frozen apple pies?
Yes! We sell the frozen apple pie at the Ala Moana location. We also sell the frozen peach pineapple pie and frozen blueberry, ube, and koshian manju. All are to take home and bake. Delicious!
