Isla Shave Ice Saipan: Time for a cool change

Isla Shave Ice Saipan owner Leonardo Aveina shows off the stall’s bestselling rainbow shave ice combination. (Mark Rabago)

Hawaiian shave ice is almost a must in a tropical island like Saipan.

This ice-based dessert can now be had at the Kada Dia Everyday Market in Chalan Kanoa, with Isla Shave Ice Saipan opening a stall last September.

Owner Leonardo Aveina said he was lucky enough to get a stall in the strategic location of Kada Dia. “We chose Kada Dia because we wanted to be closer to the people in our community and what better way than to be near a residential area where kids can just walk over and enjoy the many treats we have,” he told Saipan Tribune.

So far, so good. Isla Shave Ice Saipan has had a steady flow of customers since Day 1. “Business has been really good since we first opened up, especially with the support of the people in our community as well as the many distributors that have accommodated our small business.”

Isla Shave Ice’s chili dog. (Mark Rabago)

He added that they’ve had repeat customers because their shave ice is unlike any other on Saipan. “Apart from the other shave ice establishments, we feel that we offer affordable prices for the quality of our syrups. We try to ensure that you get the best for the price you pay. We also want customers to be able to afford a meal and cold treats for the whole family.”

Despite its name, Isla Shave Ice Saipan is not only about shave ice. “Our shave ice is the most popular item on our menu and the kids love the rainbow combination. We love seeing the look of excitement on their faces. Ice cream milkshakes are also a big hit because we use actual ice cream,” he said.

Under the food section, Aveina said their top sellers are the chili dogs and loaded nachos because of their homemade chili. They also have the loaded potato, which he said is getting more popular and they recently added pulled pork sandwiches to their menu.

In terms of promotions, Isla Shave Ice Saipan currently offers Isla Stamp Cards in which each card holder can receive a free large shave ice for every 10 shave ice purchases.

Isla Shave Ice’s loaded nachos because. (Mark Rabago)

Aveina said they’ve also collaborated with the NMC ProaPerks Program. For every $10 purchase at Isla Shave Ice, you can receive one free small shave ice. “We also offer different party packages for the rental of our shave ice machines and supplies, especially for birthday parties and events.”

In terms of safety in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, signs are posted at the front of the Isla Shave Ice Saipan stall informing customers to practice social distancing as well as to wear masks at all times. Hand sanitizers are also available for both the staff and customers. “Cleanliness is of the utmost importance,” said Aveina.

Isla Shave Ice Saipan is open Monday-Friday from 11am to 7pm and Saturdays from 10am to 7pm and Sundays from 11am to 2pm.

“We want to thank our isla familia for their continued support. We truly appreciate your business and we hope that we have met your expectations. We hope to serve you again. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram ‘IslaShaveIceSPN,’” said Aveina.