Sammamish Farmers Market vendors serve up desserts with unique stories

The Sammamish Farmers Market has become a delightful destination for dessert enthusiasts, featuring vendors like Kapeliela Shave Ice and PNW Cheesecake, each providing distinct cultural flavors. Kapeliela Shave Ice, rooted in Hawaiian tradition, offers unique flavors such as Li Hing Mui, a salty-sweet treat that showcases Solomon Kapeliela's heritage. Having relocated from Hawaii, Kapeliela aims to educate locals about the differences between Hawaiian shave ice and the more common American snow cone, emphasizing a softer, more flavorful experience. In contrast, PNW Cheesecake introduces a local twist with over 100 flavors of homemade cheesecake inspired by family recipes. Owners Matthew Cornwall and Kimberly Pollreise have created a Seattle-style cheesecake that marries pie with cheesecake, prompting customers to return for new flavors every week.

Their offerings highlight the importance of family traditions in culinary arts. The market operates every Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 p. m. until mid-September, providing a timely opportunity for residents to discover these unique desserts. Overall, the market serves as a vibrant platform for local culture and community engagement.