°­²¹°ì¾±²µ¨­°ù¾± (shaved ice) has long been a summer favorite, but in recent years has risen up the ranks into the world of the vaguely hip. Lines for kakig¨­ri spots around Tokyo stretch out during the middle of the season, and prices have gone up accordingly. Recently though, a happy medium is emerging ¡ª you can find the cool treat served at family restaurants.

Coco¡¯s has grabbed the most attention so far in 2018 with their kakig¨­ri offerings, which went on sale nationwide on June 7 and can be sampled until late August. The chain offers nine varieties (along with four ¡°mini¡± offerings), with flavors ranging from colorful strawberry (?490 before tax) to a photo-friendly Snow Choco Banana (?690 before tax).

The standout is called Pop Blue Soda. This shaved ice creation (?590 before tax, add ?80 if you want a scoop of vanilla ice cream with that) mixes a Blue Hawaii flavor with lemon. But the hook ¡ª dare say, novelty ¡ª of this comes from the popping candies added on top. They don¡¯t add much flavor wise, but they do provide a cracking crackling effect while you eat. Necessary addition? Probably not. Fun while you eat? Definitely.