New Ocean Side Bakery Brings a Taste of France to Chinatown
Fresh breads, pastries and even croissant cubes are a hit.
Photo: Melissa Chang
When Fanny Queloz opened Ocean Side Bakery on Smith Street one week ago, she was afraid no one would show up. Honolulu’s carb lovers proved her wrong—she’s sold out around noon every day she’s been open.
Many people know Queloz from her booth at the Saturday Kaka‘ako market, where she sells caneles (a Bordeaux specialty) with local twists like liliko‘i curd and haupia cream. She recently added a second booth, Ocean Side Bakery, where she’s been selling breads and pastries as a preview of her brick-and-mortar.
Photo: Melissa Chang
People rarely make caneles here, though Queloz has made them quite popular. They’re like little cakes, but with a unique caramelized crust and an almost custardy center. Queloz adds toppings like chocolate, caramel, haupia or guava.
Photo: Melissa Chang
One of my favorite pastries is the almond croissant—Queloz makes hers properly. She should know a proper croissant, since she’s originally from Switzerland. And like a proper European baker, she makes her own jams and butter.
SEE ALSO: My 9 Favorite Bakeries in Honolulu
Photo: Melissa Chang
But the signature item you need to try (if it’s not sold out) is the croissant cube. This is made like a regular flaky croissant, but in a special cube pan. The cubes are filled and topped with jams, chocolate or other sweets that make them pretty and delicious. Forget the trashy “trends” people have been doing with baked goods. Croissant cubes are trending in Europe!
Photo: Melissa Chang
Pastries run anywhere from $2.50 to $6 and breads from $4 to $10. Ocean Side Bakery also serves coffee made with beans from Bean About Town for about $3 to $5. You can get its baked goods at the Saturday Kaka‘ako farmers market (‘Ewa side) as well.
There’s no seating—you just point at what you want or order from the menu on the door. The bakery will eventually offer savory and lunch items, as well as open more days.
But for now, go early if you want a good selection. Tout suite!
Open Tuesday to Thursday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., 1176 Smith St., (808) 931-9680, @oceansidebakery808
