Mochill Mochi Donut

by: CARY WONG

Mochill Mochi Donut

Disrupting the Donut Industry with Mochi- Related Treats

The popularity of Asian snacks has definitely risen in the last few years. One of those items is the mochi donut. Unlike traditional, dense American donuts, Japanese-style mochi donuts are made with rice flour. They offer a lighter, fluffier, and chewier texture. Mochill Mochi Donut, a brand that originated from Honolulu, Hawaii, has expanded to the Bay Area and opened two popular locations in town.

Taisuke Yamamoto, the director of the brand, says that he chose the name by putting “Mochi” and “Chill” together with the hope that people who enjoy their Mochi-related products will be able to chill and have a good time while doing so.

“We have gotten a lot of feedback from our customers that they like our donuts over traditional American donuts because ours are less sweet and offer a delicate Japanese taste,” he says.

They offer over twenty flavors in rotation. From typical cinnamon sugar to kinako (roasted soybean flour used in Japanese cuisine), there are a wide variety of choices.

With their current success, they are planning for more mochi-related products that fuse together Japanese and American culture. One example currently on sale—mochi cupcakes. They offer a denser and chewier texture compared to mochi donuts and are more similar to real mochi.

Introducing Japanese fast-food culture has always been the Yamamoto family’s mission since they started their business. In addition to Mochill Mochi Donut, they also own Takoyaki Yamachan, a brand that sells Takoyaki, another popular Japanese street food which is a type of grilled squid balls.

It will certainly be very exciting to see what ideas come next from his creative mind!