Owner of Aloha Jay's, Jay Losagio says that after the passing of his father, he was determined to fulfill his final request and open a malasada shop. Visiting Hawaii more than 13 times, Losagio fell in love with the beauty, culture and food. “During the third trip there, I had my first malasada, and was hooked!” he says. “In 2011, I took my dad with me to Oahu, and he ate three malasadas in one sitting. He used to joke with me, hey, why don't you open a business up that serves these in PA?” It took Losagio two and a half years and over 353 batches to perfect the malasadas that he serves in Hellertown today. “There was a lot of aloha put into this and I feel that is a big reason why Aloha Jay's has been received well thus far,” he says.
Aloha Jay's offers a wide range of malasadas, including classics like cinnamonsugar and plain as well as unique varieties that change weekly, like s'mores, lava cake, pink guava cream and more. Customers can enjoy 100-percent Kona coffee, Aloha Jay's Punch or hot chocolate with their sweet treats. The eatery has been a hit with the community, and customers enjoy being greeted by a lei and an “aloha” upon entering the space.
Currently, the demand exceeds the supply, but Losagio hopes to soon be able to remain open until 8 p.m. every day. He also plans to offer a vegan and gluten-free malasada option.
1120 Main St. Unit A, Hellertown | 484.851.3049 | alohajays.com
Published as “Trending Now” in the August 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
