Summer Delights and Year-Round Treats: Fluffy Japanese Shaved Ice at KAKIGORI CAFE&BAR yelo in Roppongi, Tokyo

As of 2023, Japan is seeing an increase in shops that offer kakigōri, a Japanese shaved ice dessert, throughout the year.

One such place is “KAKIGORI CAFE&BAR yelo” (hereunder referred to as “yelo”) in Roppongi, Tokyo, which attracts crowds of shaved ice lovers all year round. The popular shop presents the idea that kakigōri is not just for cooling off in the summer, but a delightful treat to be enjoyed at any season.

Photo of shop exterior

“Tiramisu”: A generous sprinkle of cocoa powder on fluffy shaved ice

A standout item on the menu is the “Tiramisu,” a kakigōri liberally topped with bittersweet cocoa powder. The generous use of mascarpone sauce makes it taste as though you’re enjoying a slice of tiramisu.

Photo of Tiramisu kakigōri

ティラミス, Tiramisu 1,200 JPY (tax included)

Bensky
Bensky

This is kakigōri? The flavor is so authentic, it feels like eating actual tiramisu!

The ice used in their kakigōri is carefully frozen over 48 hours and left at room temperature before shaving. This process ensures a finely textured, fluffy consistency. When shaving the ice, they focus on two key aspects: avoiding pressure on the ice and layering it to allow air to be incorporated. This results in deliciously light and airy kakigori.

Photo of ice

Furthermore, a distinctive feature of yelo is their method of applying milk sauce and flavoring three times each while shaving the ice. This ensures that the ingredients permeate the kakigōri, not just on the surface but throughout. As a result, the flavor doesn’t diminish as you eat it, allowing you to fully enjoy its deliciousness to the last bite.

Photo of shaving ice

Toppings that enhance kakigōri: mascarpone cream on top of fruit sauce

When it comes to toppings, shiratama mochi balls are perfect for adding a chewy texture. In addition, oiri, a traditional Japanese sweet from Kagawa Prefecture, brings a crunchy texture to the kakigōri.

Photo of toppings

(From left) Shiratama 150 JPY (tax included), Oiri 150 JPY (tax included)

“Mascarpone Whipped Cream,”, a favorite among many, transforms the kakigōri into a rich and creamy delight when added. This topping, a combination of fluffy whipped cream and plenty of mascarpone cheese, offers a luxurious taste with a refreshing aftertaste.

Photo of kakigōri topping

“マスカルポーネホイップクリーム,” Mascarpone Whipped Cream” 200 JPY (tax included)

Umami bites writer Bensky tried yelo’s “Mango Milk” kakigōri topped with Mascarpone Whipped Cream. Coated with homemade syrup, “Mango Milk” allows the full flavor of mango to shine through, perfectly complementing the milk sauce.

Photo of Mango Milk DX

“マンゴーミルクDX,” Mango Milk DX 1,400 JPY (tax included)

Bensky
Bensky

The freshness of the mango really comes through in this kakigōri! The richness of the cream is irresistible, making it feel like a premium dessert.

In addition to these, there are toppings like “Granola” and “Tapioca.” For more delightful choices, check out the menu, which details recommended toppings for each variety of kakigōri.

Photo of the menu

The menu has English as well

Alcohol-infused kakigōri: a perfect end to your night

At yelo, there’s more to savor than just shaved ice. They boast an exciting alcoholic drink menu, featuring not only classic drinks like beer and vodka but also an inventive selection of kakigōri featuring alcohol.

Photo of Rum Raisin

“ラムレーズン,” Rum Raisin 1,500 JPY (tax included)

Their alcohol-infused kakigōri creations are served in special glasses. They reflect the ambiance of Roppongi, known for its vibrant nightlife, providing a sophisticated and mature experience.

Photo of Rum Raisin

“Rum Raisin” is a rich blend of milk sauce and a generous amount of rum-soaked raisins, offering a burst of flavor with each bite.

Photo of making kakigōri

One of the charms of yelo is their monthly release of limited-edition kakigōri flavors, with over 100 different varieties introduced so far. It’s worth visiting multiple times to discover your favorite.

 Photo of making kakigōri

Pouring an ample amount of milk sauce

The shop is also open late, making it a popular destination after dining in Roppongi. Enjoying kakigōri as a closing treat after a night of drinking is highly recommended.

Photo of shop interior

Information

Store name KAKIGORI CAFE&BAR yelo
Address Patio Roppongi 1F, 5-2-11 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access Roppongi Station 3-minute walk from Roppongi Station Exit 3
  • Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line(H04)
  • Toei Ōedo Line(E23)
Phone number 03-3423-2121
Reservations Not accepted
Payment
  • Cash
  • Credit cards(American Express・Diners・Discover・JCB・Master・UnionPay・VISA)
  • Transportation-related electronic money(Suica, etc.)
  • Electronic money(iD・QUICPay)
  • QR code payment(Alipay・d Payment・PayPay・Rakuten Pay)
Service charge/Table charge Late-night charge 200 JPY (tax included)
If you pay the bill after 22:00
Hours 11:00-5:00 AM
Closed No holidays
Seating 16 seats
6 counter seats, 10 table seats
Smoking All seats are non-smoking
Official website https://yelo.jp/
Other information
  • English menus are available
  • Please ask staff about allergy-friendly menus; however, there may be cases in which the restaurant is unable to accommodate your request; vegan, vegeterian and halal menus are not available
  • Not wheelchair-accessible
  • Take-out is available; delivery service is not available
  • Luggage storage space is not available
  • Wi-Fi is available
  • Posting of food photos and videos on customers’ personal SNS accounts is allowed
  • Separate billing is allowed

※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of December 2023.