Bonsai Kakigōri

Not your typical ice cream. Japanese shaved ice. It’s located inside a food complex that I thought was lively yet not too crowded. The small-sized Kakigori was good enough in terms of quantity. Definitely try it if you want something different!

The Japanese shaved ice was delicious! The small is definitely a shareable size. Pictured are the matcha and mango/ginger flavors. Both are delicious! The ice is finely shaved with no chunks. You can even do a sample of all the 6 different current flavors. It’s a pretty good deal, but definitely bring a group of friends to share with. It’s located inside the Canal Street Market that has lots of other delicious foods and cute shops.

It was so delicious! I’d say small one is good for one person. We got matcha shaved ice and espresso&peanut shaved ice. Didn’t expect a lot but it was exceptionally good! Made to order, one by one with open kitchen. Can’t wait to go back for some more!

Lower Manhattan might be saturated with Insta-friendly frozen desserts, but Bonsai is a clear highlight. Every flavor I’ve tried—matcha, strawberry, rhubarb, mango chai—has been delightful and packed with flavor. The whipped creams and crunchy toppings perfectly complement the shaved ice; eat quickly before it turns into chilled soup!

Inside the canal street market. Best kakigori in the city! Huge as a size small, and they actually put another layer of cream after they filled the bowl with ice and then did the second layer which made it look like a mountain...so the taste was consistent for the whole kakigori, impressed.

First time here and first time trying out Kakigori. This place is legit! Better than The Little One off E Broadway. Ordered the matcha flavored kakigori. I really like how the ice is shaved so fine that it is literally like putting a spoon of flavored snow flakes into your mouth. The shaved ice literally melts once it hits your tongue. I also like how every bit of the ice has flavor! This is not a heavy dessert at all though it is sweet but not overly sweet. Well definitely come back to tryout different flavors.

Came all the way from union square. There is not a lot of seating around because the space has many restaurants. We just stood and were happy. If you haven't been and love Japanese shaved ice this is a must! Also, the servings are very generous and the wonderful person working gave us a free shaved ice! Please try it if you can. Images below are making matcha and a finished key lime pie.

Dessert and a show! You get to see how the employee makes the shaved ice cream. I got the small coconut lime crunch and it was super refreshing and delicious. There are 3 sizes, small, medium and large (to stay and bring a friend). Flavors change depending on the season. Expect the dessert to dissolve quick in the heat. You can substitute the milk with almond milk. This food stand in canal street market also makes matcha drinks. Best time to go is after lunch time as employees are also on their break. Amazing service!