Shades of Shave Ice explores the rainbow of expressions of our favorite summertime treat. From its ethnic origins to farm-fresh flavors and must-have toppings, we’re spotlighting O‘ahu’s shave ice scene one or two shops at a time.
In the second episode of Shades of Shave Ice, we head to Kapahulu for a couple of OG players in the shave ice scene: Waiola and Shimazu Store. Both have original locations in less touristy neighborhoods and generations of experience turning out snowy domes saturated with super local flavors. Waiola’s original location opened in the 1940s and sticks to its roots with a particular ordering method, homemade syrups flavored with Thai tea and strawberry cream and fun toppings like custard flan and lychee jelly. At Shimazu Store in Hawai‘i’s Favorite Kitchens, size matters with a long list of signature cream-based and crack seed flavors. No matter which frozen faction you side with, both shops promise a fun experience rooted in the local classic art of shave ice.
