Shave ice is probably the one dessert or snack that Hawaii is known for. To the mainlanders, it is an equivalent to a snow cone, but with much finer ice. So, it consists of finely chopped ice covered with some kind of flavored topping and sometimes accompanied by ice cream, condensed milk (snow cap), mochi balls, fruits, or azuki beans. It is always the perfect snack after a hard day, or a warm one, meaning it can be eaten on any day at any time. A couple of my favorite places to get shave ice are at Waiola’s in McCully, or at Mastumoto’s in Haleiwa.
Mastumoto’s had been popular for like ever. It is a trademark when mentioning shave ice. One thing that makes it unique, and all shave ice stands and stores for that matter, is that they make their own syrups. Mastumoto’s is located in the heart of Haleiwa on the North Shore. You can always be sure that there will be a line when you go there. I don’t think I have ever just walked into the store and ordered. However, they have their system down, and they are very efficient. When ordering shave ice, you almost always tell them what size you want first. Next you mention if you want something inside, for instance ice cream. This is because they have to prepare these things before handing the cup off to the person filling it with ice. Telling what flavors you want is always last because they don’t need to know until they have the ice all ready.
Recently, Waiola’s has become very popular as well. It is located in Honolulu, so it attracts all sorts of people. What makes this place unique is that their ice is SUPER fine. It is almost like eating air or a cloud with syrup; don’t get me wrong, it’s very delicious! When I go here, I always order a plain rainbow with condensed milk. Rainbow is a combination of vanilla, banana, and strawberry. Waiola even has a special rainbow called “Obama’s Rainbow.” Apparently it is what he always orders when he visits his home.
These are just two of many shave ice places in Hawaii. You can literally go to any shopping center or mall and find a place that sells shave ice. One thing you also never have to worry about is its price. It is usually between $2 and $5. Honestly, ice and sugar really can’t cost that much, hence the cheap prices.
So, if you ever visit Hawaii, travel around and eat at different shave ice stores. You will definitely find something different at each one!
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| Matsumoto's |
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| Waiola's |
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