A taste of Hawaii is coming to downtown Olathe, where Mahalo Mornings plans to open its first standalone bakery and café later this year. The locally owned business is expected to open in the new County Square Commons development along the 100 block of Cherry Street, with a soft opening currently planned for December 2026.
Mahalo Mornings was founded by Madison Moore, who has been building the business through pop-up locations at the Lenexa and Mission farmers markets. The bakery also operates a smaller location inside the Lenexa City Center fitness center at 17450 W. 87th Street Parkway.
The bakery specializes in Hawaiian-inspired pastries and tropical flavors. Its menu has included pineapple banana bread, butter mochi, mango lime muffins and guava chantilly muffins. Moore has said she also tries to use ingredients from local vendors whenever possible.
The Olathe location will expand beyond baked goods. Plans call for sandwiches, soups and other lunch selections, with anticipated hours of 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The new bakery will be located inside a roughly 150-year-old building featuring exposed brick and historic character.
Opening a bakery and eatery has long been a goal for Moore, who operates Mahalo Mornings with help from her parents. The family found the downtown Olathe space together, and Moore said she quickly fell in love with the historic building and the possibilities it offered for the growing business.
The name “Mahalo Mornings” reflects Moore’s connection to Hawaii. “Mahalo” is commonly used to express thanks or gratitude in Hawaiian, and Moore has said visits to the islands inspired her not only because of the scenery, but also because of the strong sense of community she experienced there. She hopes to bring some of that same welcoming atmosphere to her hometown.
Mahalo Mornings will be one of several businesses planned for County Square Commons, a major redevelopment taking shape in downtown Olathe. Austin’s Bar and Grill has also been announced as a tenant, with additional restaurants, shops and businesses expected to become part of the project. Infrastructure work has been underway, with tenant construction expected to move forward as the development progresses.
The project is another piece of the continuing transformation of downtown Olathe, bringing new businesses into and around historic buildings while adding dining and gathering spaces. If the current schedule holds, Mahalo Mornings could begin welcoming customers before the end of 2026, offering downtown visitors a new place for breakfast, lunch and a little taste of Hawaii.
Visit the stores website at: mahalomornings.com
Something Different Media Group
