Now that it’s getting even warmer out than usual, Hawaiians are on the hunt for a tasty refreshment. Enter Halo-halo, a delicious Filipino food that means “mix” in Tagalog. A blend of ice cream, shaved ice, fruit, and other ingredients, it is truly unique. Here’s why you’ll be craving this sweet treat all summer long.

A Closer Look at Halo-Halo

How Is It Served?

Traditionally, halo-halo is presented in a glass so you have the added pleasure of seeing all the different ingredients and colors. While every establishment has their own blend o the Filipino food, you can almost always expect to see shaved ice and a dollop of ice cream. Condensed milk is also a staple, and you’ll often even see dessert beans and different fruits added to the mix. Lychee and jackfruit are both common choices. 

Why Is It Right for Summer?

The dish is full of refreshing flavors that will give you an escape from the summer sun. Ice cream, for one, is always a delight in the summertime. But the real kicker is the shaved ice, which is spread across all of the ingredients. That frosty gloss will be a joy for your mouth and give your whole body a nice cool down on a warm summer day.

What Makes It Special?

What makes this Filipino food so delicious is the variety of flavors you experience in a single glass. For something a little tart, you’ll have the fruit; for something sweet, the beans and the ice cream will do the trick — and that doesn’t even include the condensed milk, which adds something totally unique. Because it’s easy to swap in substitute elements (like pineapple, for instance), you’ll never get bored of halo-halo and can customize it to your liking.

Located in Kahului, HI, Plantation Grindz has emerged as the area’s go-to purveyor of Filipino food. One of the most beloved restaurants in Maui, you can try a wide range of memorable Filipino dishes like halo-halo, as well as classic Hawaiian favorites like loco moco. To inquire about the menu, call (808) 873-3663. Learn more about the establishment by visiting their website.