Shave ice is heaven in a cup on a hot day; a sugary delight made from a slice of ice so thin it creates a new texture in your mouth you’ve have probably never experienced.
Like us, you may have grown up eating sno-cones. Don’t be deceived: what we’re talking about here is on a whole different level! Quality shave ice is so smooth and melty you forget your eating ice. It’s not chunky or gritty like the sno-cones of our youth (at least, it shouldn’t be when done well).
And FYI: contrary to some people’s phrasing, it’s not SHAVED, it’s just SHAVE. (Just want to help you not sound like a tourist).
Shave ice with the works typically includes ice cream and azuki beans below the ice and condensed milk on top. While they are worth a try, sometimes just some cold ice is all I need.
Some places make their own flavors (like Waialua Sugar Mill on Oahu or Wailua Shave Ice on Kauai). Fresh toppings take shave ice make for a refreshing treat.
Last Tip: Most of the time the sizes are WAAAAY to large. A small will often be plenty of sugary goodness.
Thanks to Jadon Good for the delicious looking photo above!