Island Soul Shaved Ice — Restaurant in Honolulu

My first stop on the island was to this brand new Hawaiian shaved ice spot. For the past two months I’ve been eating kakigori in Japan, their version of shaved ice, and wanted to compare it to Hawaii’s shaved ice. It must have been fate that led me to Island Soul because they matched the high quality and level of perfection that I’ve seen all over Japan. Yes, it’s different but it’s on the same tier. Think of it like BMW vs Mercedes, you can argue for days which is better but at the end of the day, they’re both incredible machines.

Now to my experience, I came in very early and beat the rush. This gave me a chance to meet Kenneth and really pick his brain on his shaved ice business. Him being from Southeast Asia, he is well versed with his fruit selections. He recommended the lychee shaved ice topped with assorted fruits. When it came to my seat, I was blown away at how beautiful the bowl was, the picture perfect summer snack. The fruits mounded on the ice were incredibly sweet and refreshing, while the home made lychee syrup flavored the ice so well. Perfectly balanced and wonderfully satisfying, I savored every bite and took my time to really enjoy my treat. My favorite part is always the last juices at the bottom of the bowl that lapped up like a thirsty dog.

At the time, Island Soul had only been open for four months, but they have their act together and I’d put their shaved ice up against any spot across the world! ...

HAS A PARKING LOT- FRESH FRUIT - HOMEMADE SYRUPS

This shave ice shop is tucked away in Kalihi with a small parking lot. They are a family run - mom and son shop with a little nephew hanging out. We love to support a local family business.

I was fortunate to try so many unique and different flavor combinations. I have eaten shave ice, hundreds, if not a thousand times, growing up in Hawaii but these combinations are truly unique.

Flavors: Jasmine shave ice with taro (white) and ube (purple) This had a nice floral flavor which paired well with the fresh taro and ube toppings.

Taro ice cream from Dave's

Watermelon and Lychee + sugar crystals fresh fruit (sweet green grapes, pineapple, strawberry, green Mango) The Watermelon flavor was delicious and the fruit was sweet and fresh! I've never had raw green Mango before - it blew my mind! I need a side of that next time LOL. The grapes too were large, sweet, and crisp.

Salted Lemon and strawberry I've never had this combo before but it is amazing if you are not in the mood for a super sweet experience. I LOVE a salty, sweet, sour combo so this was PERFECT for me

Li hing mui with pickled green Mango Salty and sour for those who like to pucker and enjoy !

There are also mini bentos available for sale!

CUSTOMER SERVICE made you feel like royalty :) thank you!

Photos below are half servings of...

In a tiny parking lot serving several different businesses sits a very unassuming shaved ice business. Island Soul Shaved Ice serves up a unique blend of all natural ingredients from the local area to deliver a distinctive shaved ice treat. Walking in the door you are first met with a warm Hawaiian greeting from the friendly staff who expertly explains why their shaved ice is unique and guides you through the different flavor combinations from sweet to savory and anything in-between. If you don’t find a combination on the menu you like, they will even work with you to create your our own special blend of natural ingredients. If you are looking for your standard sugar syrup, condensed milk shaved ice, this is not your place. Once seated in the very creatively decorated and painted eating area your shaved ice treat will be delivered to you. I loved the Ube Poi and strawberry toppings on mine. The mango slices were the best and freshest I’ve ever had! We ordered a sweet and a savory shaved ice blend and enjoyed both. Give them a try! Don’ let the lack of parking and difficult vehicle access in and out keep you away from...