A Hawaiian-themed café named Far From Paradise recently rebranded itself, with both co-owners coming together to open a new business.
Tony Ho, owner of Pineapples Café, and Randy Santos, owner of Ocean Malasadas, combined their businesses to create Far From Paradise.
Far From Paradise, famous for their variety of flavored shaved ice and filled malasadas, allows customers to experience Hawaiian culture while staying right here in San Francisco.
“Far From Paradise Café is bringing two Hawaiian-style desserts further from the island,” said Santos in Eater SF.
Pineapples had already been running on Ocean since 2015, well known for their shaved ice, but introduced this new concept post-pandemic. They still have their original flavors, ranging from guava to lilikoi to root beer, along with a handful of different toppings that can be added to the treat.
Ocean Malasadas started out as a pop-up in different farmer’s markets around the Bay Area. Santos’ pastries are filled with 12 different alternating flavors.
The owners can expect a majority of young customers to visit; their shop is located near many high schools, such as Balboa, Leadership, and of course, Riordan.
Ruby Guzman ’25, who swims at Balboa Pool, explained, “My first impression was that it was very vibrant and welcoming. I would definitely want to visit again.”
By combining these popular sweets from the island, their business emphasizes the importance of retaining one’s culture, especially when you’re so far away.
Armando Castillo, moderator of the Polynesian club, said, “It bridges a connection. Hawaii is far away, but when you go there it gives you an element that maybe you aren’t that far away.”
He continued, “When you go there and see familiar foods and familiar things, it reminds you that you may be physically far away, but culturally and emotionally you’re not.”
