Tasaka Guri Guri
Guri-Guri is a local frozen treat that is something like ice cream, something like sherbet, but not really either one. The story is that it was made for Japanese plantation workers and sold as “goodie-goodie” (which they pronounced guri-guri).
This third-generation family store is a Hawaiian institution and people visiting from other islands make a point to stop in and get a tiny Dixie cup filled with little scoops of this treat. There are two flavors — strawberry and pineapple — and you can combine them if you like. Two scoops (the size of a melon ball) cost you $1.
Made with (as far as we can taste; the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret) strawberry guava or pineapple juice, 7 UP, sweetened condensed milk, and one other “mystery ingredient,” you won’t be surprised to hear that the flavor is more sweet than fruity, but very refreshing. A recipe you can make at home in your ice cream maker (or without) is on our blog, just search for “guri-guri” at www.MauiRestaurantsBlog.com/guri-guri. Kids of all ages back home will love you for it.
Address: 70 E. Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului, Central Maui
Location: in the Maui Mall
Meals: Snacks & Treats
Hours: M-Th & Sa 9am-6pm; F 9am-8pm; Su 10am-4pm
Parking: Lot
Phone: 808-871-4513