Aoki's Shave Ice

You’d think anyone who opens up a shave ice shop next to world-famous Matsumoto’s Shave Ice in Haleiwa Town would struggle to find success, but Aoki’s Shave Ice is a big exception to the rule. This humble shave ice joint is just as popular with the locals and tourists, especially after spending a day at one of many North Shore Beaches. Open daily from about 11:00 am to 6:30 pm, Aoki’s offers a wide variety of flavorful, homemade syrups—from strawberry to coffee to li hing mui—to be poured over their finely shaved ice. Some consider Haleiwa Town to be the best place to eat shave ice, and Aoki’s is a testament to this widely held belief.

History

The Haleiwa storefront was opened in 1981 by Sumie (Shimoda) Aoki and her son, Michael, Aoki’s Shave Ice has actually been around since the 1930s. The Shimoda family began selling their sweet treat at the Old Haleiwa Theater, which was built in 1931. But in the 1980s, developers bought the land and demolished the building after community protests. Thus, Sumie Aoki decided to open the current shop. Today it is run by Michael Aoki and his daughter, Cathy.

• Location: Haleiwa Town, Oahu.
• Amenities: Souvenirs, Aoki’s branded clothing, gifts, shave ice, Hawaiian snacks.
• Insider Tip: First, order your size, quantity, and style (ice cream, azuki beans, plain). Once the ice is shaved, then tell Aoki’s which flavors you want.
• Fun Fact: At the site of the Old Haleiwa Theater is 7-Eleven and McDonald’s. They don’t sell shave ice there.
• Pop Culture: Aoki’s was featured on Rachel Ray’s “Rachel’s Vacation” on the Food Network. Rachel and her husband John make several stops in Haleiwa, Kailua, and Honolulu during the show.