StaciLei T.
Yelp
If you're on the west side- you have to stop by Kalo Bombs! They specialize in Pa'i 'ai which is made from kalo (taro). Pa'i 'ai is the stage before poi when you're pounding kalo. If you're the type of person who would describe their perfect dessert as "not too sweet" pa'i 'ai is the perfect add-on to balance out the sweetness of ice cream or acai.
Kalo Bombs is a grab-n-go, takeout only spot. There's ample parking and a few benches to sit and enjoy your Pa'i 'ai treat alongside the establishment, but I highly recommend taking your kalo bomb to a nearby beach to enjoy.
Kalo Bombs sources their ingredients locally. The ice cream is locally made and include flavors like haupia, ube, kūlolo, strawberry, blueberry cheesecakes, and cookies and cream.
I tried their Pa'i 'ai bomb with haupia (coconut) ice cream, fresh pa'i 'ai (4oz), niu (coconut) cream and niu flakes. Visually, there was more to be desired- but that's on me for picking a white ice cream paired with the dully colored pa'i ai. Looks aside, it is so delicious! The haupia ice cream is perfectly balanced with the pa'i 'ai making for the best "not too sweet" dessert and the coconut shavings add great texture. It's soft, creamy, not too sweet, and has 3 different textures- the perfect combination.
They do have specials that are very colorful and visually appealing. Look out for their whiteboard where they write their weekly specials, or follow them on social media to see what new things they will be offering.
I was surprised to see a savory bowl as a special- with laulau, lomi salmon, and pa'i 'ai! I can't wait to try out their acai with pa'i 'ai next.
If there's one thing about me, it's that I will always be the biggest advocate for locally sourced everything. Kalo Bombs is an innovator in the Hawaiian foods space and I can't wait to see what they do next!