Picturesque landscapes, phenomenal beaches, and vibrant sunsets are plentiful throughout the Hawaiian Islands — but perhaps more beautiful are the incredible, unique desserts found across the Aloha State. From Matsumoto’s Shave Ice and Leonard’s malasadas to haupia pie from Ted’s Bakery, Hawaii desserts are iconic. While you might find long lines at these popular dessert destinations, you can buy the treats quite easily. That’s not the case at Two Ladies Kitchen, however, where their signature strawberry mochi is so popular, you need to make a pre-order. Keep on reading to learn all about this establishment and the treats served there.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Hilo on one of the citie’s busiest streets, this family-owned operation began more than twenty years ago and has since gained a cult-like following.
Vincent S./TripAdvisor
Though mochi is most commonly associated with — and consumed during — the New Year’s holiday in Hawaii and Japan, it is a year-round snack found in bowls of shave ice, at the bottom of Asian-style bubble-tea drinks, and in convenience stores.
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This family-owned operation began more than twenty years ago and has since gained a cult-like following. The mochi served at Two Ladies Kitchen is considered by many to be the Aloha State’s best mochi, and some residents plan an entire vacation around a stop at this Hilo storefront.
Cassie W./TripAdvisor
Today, you’ll find more than 20 different flavors, colors, and even creative shapes of mochi treats — from traditional mochi lightly-scented with yomogi (mugwort leaf) and filled with azuki bean paste…
LoveHawaii49/TripAdvisor
…to the non-traditional ones filled with peanut butter, sweet potato, or malted milk balls. You’ll also find half a dozen varieties on manju, a sweet baked Japanese pastry.
Cassie W./TripAdvisor
But the shop’s most famous treat is their strawberry mochi — a fresh, whole strawberry surrounded by hand-mashed sweet azuki beans and encased in a pillowy-soft, handmade Japanese rice cake.
Wood77/TripAdvisor
This melt-in-your-mouth delicious strawberry mochi has made Two Ladies Kitchen a must-stop for residents and visitors alike. Half of one of the large stainless steel tables in the kitchen is dedicated to making this one treat, and it’s so popular, that pre-ordering is standard.
ShaneF353/TripAdvisor
Whether you’re hoping to get your hands on the famed strawberry mochi or want to try a little bit of everything, consider calling in an order. Once you sink your teeth into one of these tasty treats, you won’t be bothered by the inconvenience of placing a phone order or standing in a long line. If you haven’t been to Two Ladies Kitchen yet, add it to your Hawaii Island bucket list.
Leah C./TripAdvisor
Two Ladies Kitchen is located at 274 Kilauea Ave., Hilo, HI 96720, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are closed Sunday and Monday. Be sure to call 808.961.4766 to reserve your strawberry mochi! To discover another delicious dessert destination you’ll have to wait in line at, click here.
Vincent S./TripAdvisor
LoveHawaii49/TripAdvisor
Cassie W./TripAdvisor
Wood77/TripAdvisor
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Leah C./TripAdvisor
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