The Sammamish Farmers Market is more than just a place to get your weekly produce; it’s a vibrant community hub where cultures converge through the universal language of food. Among the myriad of vendors, two dessert booths stand out for not only satisfying the local sweet tooth cravings but also for adding a delicious layer of cultural storytelling to their offerings. Kapeliela Shave Ice and PNW Cheesecake, each with their unique historical and cultural roots, offer visitors a taste of heritage wrapped in sweet indulgence. These vendors bring a piece of their world to Sammamish, allowing patrons to embark on a culinary journey that spans from the Hawaiian islands to the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
At the heart of this delicious cultural exchange is Kapeliela Shave Ice, bringing a slice of Hawaiian tradition to the northwest with every cup of shaved ice they serve. Founded by Solomon Kapeliela, who yearned for the authentic shaved ice of his Hawaiian youth, this booth offers an experience far removed from the commonly known snow cone. With flavors like Li Hing Mui and techniques that offer a softer, more flavorful ice, Kapeliela Shave Ice encapsulates the essence of Hawaiian summers. On the other hand, PNW Cheesecake introduces a Seattle-style cheesecake, a novel blend of pie and cheesecake, through over 100 flavors that tell stories of family heritage and the fusion of culinary traditions. This cheesecake, born out of a family recipe shared and loved during the lockdowns, brings a local touch to the global phenomenon of cheesecake.
The inception stories of both Kapeliela Shave Ice and PNW Cheesecake are as rich as their flavors. Kapeliela Shave Ice’s dedication to authentic Hawaiian shave ice started from a desire to share a piece of Solomon Kapeliela’s homeland with the Pacific Northwest, preserving the traditional preparation methods that make shave ice distinct from its mainland counterparts. This commitment to culture and authenticity offers a refreshing escape on Sammamish summer days. In contrast, PNW Cheesecake is a pandemic-born passion project that morphed into a thriving business, sharing a slice of home with every piece of their meticulously crafted cheesecake pies. With a constantly evolving menu that includes fascinating flavors like Caramel Apple Crumble and potential future delights like Root Beer Float Cheesecake, PNW Cheesecake embodies the innovative spirit of the Seattle area.
By supporting these vendors, patrons of the Sammamish Farmers Market do more than treat themselves to delectable desserts; they participate in a lively exchange of cultures and stories. Kapeliela Shave Ice and PNW Cheesecake are not just dessert vendors; they are cultural ambassadors who represent the rich tapestry of traditions and flavors that make our community unique. Whether you’re in the mood for a cooling Hawaiian shave ice or a slice of decadent Seattle-style cheesecake, the Sammamish Farmers Market offers an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in a taste of culture every Wednesday through mid-September. So why not make your next visit a mini culinary adventure?
