Nestled in an out-of-the-way location is a real local gem called Maui Specialty Chocolates. You would be most likely to discover them as custom made chocolate treats for local hotels and vacation condo complexes; but thankfully you needn’t have to stay in one of these establishments to enjoy the rich, deliciousness they offer. In their store here on East Wakea Avenue, you can select the chocolate treats that most appeal to you without the cost of a night in the client hotel.
After 22 years in business, the family continues to work together to make their dream happen. Owner Tony Jones and his wife Valerie still have the pleasure of Grandma helping behind the counter to prepare orders and wait on store customers. I asked Tony how Maui Specialty Chocolates came to be and he jokingly answered that he didn’t want to get a real job. Obviously Tony and his wife put years of dedication and many more hours than a “real job” would have consumed into making their business a success.
What is the secret behind the wonderful chocolate? One can only assume it is the magic Valerie puts into each piece. After attending the Culinary Institute of America, Valerie worked as a baker for Marriott. Each Christmas she would prepare chocolates for friends and family. She would continually get requests to make more for other occasions. Seeing an opportunity here, Valerie and Tony opened Maui Specialty Chocolates and the rest, as they say, is history.
The most requested treat in the store is their peanut butter and chocolate mochi (a Japanese rice cake). Their mochi is made fresh daily and sells out fast so if you’re looking to pick up some for your next party, call ahead or be there when the store opens at 10:00!
If you’re headed into Kahalui for a Costco or Walmart run, detour through the back roads to this bakery in Maui and pick up some mochi on your way home! Make sure you say hi to Tony! Mahalo!
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