It may already be the rainy season, but mornings and afternoons still have the prickly heat of summer. And what better way to fight the heat than by an icy cold snack? If you’re looking to try something new, I recommend Shari Shari Kakigori House, a Hong Kong restaurant that offers authentic Japanese shaved ice desserts. It’s set to open this week and I’m already looking forward to trying it again!
Kakigori is a Japanese shaved ice dessert, topped with syrup and condensed milk. All of Shari Shari’s kakigori comes in a massive serving, making it perfect to share. In fact, the kakigori in Manila is going to be bigger than the ones they serve in Hong Kong.
I got to try five flavors when they invited me over, and I had a hard time picking my favorite. However, I do know that I will be having the Matcha Cream Special again, a combination of shaved ice, matcha cream, kuromitsu (Japanese sugar syrup), whipped cream, and a surprise cookie center. Their matcha is special since it’s sourced and flown in from Japan, making it authentic. I heard it’s good when you top it with chocolate so I will definitely try that out.
I also enjoyed the Strawberry Special, a sweet treat topped with cream and a whole strawberry. I also liked the Earl Grey Milk Tea Kakigori, but that’s because I like Earl Grey tea. It might be a surprising take for some, who might not be used to the drink.
Some of the unique flavors I got to try was the Japanese Tofu Kakigori. Don’t let the tofu name distract you. It’s definitely not like the ones used for cooking. The Japanese tofu has a subtle sweetness with a strong soybean flavor. Kind of like taho! It’s topped with Mikan orange for that refreshing sour kick. There’s also the Cantaloupe Melon, a Philippine exclusive that sources its melons from local farms. This offering is part of their plan to offer a rotating menu depending on what produce is in season.
It’s worth noting that their sauces are made fresh daily. Also, their ice machines come straight from Japan, making their kakigori smooth, fluffy, and cloud-like. It quickly melts in your mouth!
And if you’re looking to upgrade your experience, you can put your own twist by adding your favorite toppings: ice cream, shiratama (powdered glutinous rice flour), cookies, cream, red bean, chocolate sauce, different powders, and kuromitsu.
Shari Shari Kakigori will be opening its first branch outside Hong Kong on June 28, 2019 in Bonifacio Global City.
This story is in partnership with Shari Shari Kakigori. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of Serendra, McKinley Parkway, BGC. For more information, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Join the conversation at #ShariShariPH.