Aloha Tofu is a long-established tofu factory in Hawaii, known for its traditional, old-fashioned manufacturing methods.
Run by a Japanese-American couple, it is renowned as the maker of the most delicious tofu in Hawaii!
Made with the highest quality soybeans, their products are not only loved by Hawaii locals but are also used by many restaurants, so you might have tasted them during your visit.
Today, their products are available at various supermarkets like Don Quijote, Foodland, Safeway, and Nijiya Market, making them easy to find in most grocery stores across Hawaii.
The factory also has a direct sales shop where you can purchase freshly made tofu, fresh soy milk, okara (soy pulp), and yudofu, which is exclusive to the shop.
The History of Aloha Tofu
Aloha Tofu was founded in 1950, shortly after World War II.
At the time, the factory was small, and they only made enough tofu for their family.
However, as word of its deliciousness gradually spread, it quickly gained a great reputation.
After relocating several times, they have been operating at their current factory in the Kalihi district since 1976.
Even after decades, the fresh, just-made tofu from the direct sales shop continues to be loved by many customers every day.
They say they produce an astonishing 3,000 to 5,000 blocks of tofu daily!
Aloha Tofu’s Product Lineup
Aloha Tofu sells many other soy products besides tofu!
We were also provided with images, so let’s introduce their classic and popular products.
Firm Tofu
Firm tofu is Aloha Tofu’s most classic product.
The regular size is 20 oz (567g), and even the small size is about 16 oz (453g), which is quite large compared to typical tofu sizes!
This dense, firm tofu holds its shape well, making it perfect for stir-frying or sautéing.
It’s a versatile tofu that’s useful for any type of dish.
Soft Tofu
This tofu is particularly popular among those who love Japanese cuisine!
Its smooth and soft texture makes it ideal for hiyayakko (chilled tofu) or miso soup.
Compared to typical Japanese silken tofu, it’s slightly firmer and has a richer, more pronounced soybean flavor.
This is the perfect tofu for making tofu-based desserts!
Atuage (Deep-Fried Tofu)
The atuage is vacuum-packed, so it has a longer shelf life than regular tofu.
Being deep-fried gives it a more substantial texture, making it popular with vegetarians as well.
You can eat it simply by cutting it up, or use it in other dishes.
In Hawaii, you’ll often see it used in salads and pasta dishes.
Aburage (Fried Tofu Pouch)
Aloha Tofu’s aburage is known for being exceptionally thick and having a fluffy texture.
It comes in two varieties: a larger triangle shape and a smaller square shape.
It’s delicious enough to be a dish on its own just by toasting it, but we also recommend opening it up to make a low-carb aburage pizza.
Of course, it’s also perfect for miso soup or inarizushi.
Natto (Fermented Soybeans)
This is fresh, unfrozen natto, which is a rare find in Hawaii.
While there are many frozen natto products imported from Japan, the texture of fresh natto is completely different!
With the growing trend toward healthy eating, its popularity is increasing not only among local Japanese residents but also with the general local population.
With Hawaii’s large Asian population, it’s no surprise that natto culture has been warmly embraced.
Soy Milk
This is the unsweetened soy milk used to make Aloha Tofu’s products, and it’s characterized by its incredible richness.
Many people visit the direct sales shop specifically to buy the freshly made, warm soy milk.
You can even make yuba (tofu skin) by pouring it into a wide-bottomed pot or frying pan and gently heating it over low heat!
Okara (Soy Pulp)
Okara, a byproduct of the tofu-making process, is a product unique to a tofu factory!
It’s nutritious, healthy, and great for those on a diet.
It might just be the only place in Hawaii to get fresh okara!
Yudofu
This is incredibly fresh tofu that hasn’t been pressed or molded!
In Japan, it’s known as kumiage-dofu, sukui-dofu, or oboro-dofu.
It has a creamy, smooth texture, and the natural sweetness of the soybeans creates a rich flavor.
Since it’s a product exclusive to the direct sales shop, be sure to look for it when you visit the factory.
Ohana Soy Sauce
This is a dashi-infused soy sauce specially selected by Aloha Tofu as the perfect complement to their tofu.
It is manufactured in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, and imported for sale.
This soy sauce is also included in the natto packs mentioned earlier!
Enjoying their artisanal tofu with this specially chosen soy sauce is the ultimate treat.
Aloha Tofu Factory Information
| Name | Aloha Tofu |
| Address | 961 Akepo Lane, Honolulu, HI 96817 |
| Map | |
| Hours | Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Wednesday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Closed | Jan 1, Memorial Day (last Mon in May), July 4, Labor Day (first Mon in Sep), Thanksgiving (fourth Thu in Nov), Dec 25 |
| Restrooms | None available |
| Parking | Available (free) |
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