In the heart of the beautiful Island of Moloka'i, lies the Kanemitsu Bakery. A place where an exciting tradition has been practiced for over 80 years. If you're one of my fellow kanak's (pidgin/local slang for 'kānaka maoli', referring to people of the Hawaiian Islands or their descendants), then you know exactly what I'm talking about.
That's right...you guessed it! The Moloka'i Bread Run! If you haven't been, you really are missing out. Let me tell you a short story.
Once upon a time, locals on the island of Moloka'i use to venture out at night in search of a hidden treasure. They'd make their way down dimly lit streets until they found themselves at an ally way hidden by the cover of night.
Those brave enough, would walk down this pitch black alley until they found themselves at a barnyard style door.
"Knock...knock..." goes the patron.
Suddenly the top part of the door would swing open and a rather angry looking baker would stand there and demand your order. After placing your order and paying, the baker would abruptly slam the door and disappear into the building. Not long after, it'd swing open again, and the baker would hand you the treasure...
Freshly baked bread, sweet to the taste and filled with your choice of filling! The choices - strawberry, blueberry, cinnamon, butter or cream cheese - would be spread onto the bread just moments after they'd removed it from the oven. Mmm...
The rumors of this experience and mouthwateringly delicious treat have spread throughout the years, attracting many locals and visitors to the island.
Although they've installed lights in the alley, the baker smiles a lot and the experience itself has become much less theatrical, patrons still have to venture out at night to get it, and it is still the most delicious bread you will ever have the privilege of tasting! Oh how I miss you my Moloka'i Bread Run! Until we meet again, I will dream constantly of devouring every last bite of your incredibly tasty sweetness!
A Hui Hou Kākou (until we meet again),
Island Girl
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