Yongle Street Babao Ice

Review

Yongle Street Babao Ice is at No. 61 Yongle Street in Changhua City, near Changhua Tianhou Temple, an old-style ice shop on this historic shopping street. Sources disagree on its age, with one report saying 72 years and another nearly 80, but either way it holds memories for several generations of locals. Its slightly rusted sign and vintage cart are its trademarks, the film You Are the Apple of My Eye shot a scene here, and it often features on walking routes of Changhua's old shops.

The signature babao (eight-treasure) ice is traditional: pineapple on top, then sweet potato, red bean, sago pearls, job's tears, mung beans, lima beans and crunchy rice balls further down. The coarse shaved ice melts fast, quickly turning into a cool, sweet soup with the syrup. The most talked-about item is the house-made old-style pudding, springy with a handmade feel; one blogger said it is nothing like supermarket pudding, and some simply order pudding milk. Moon-viewing ice with egg yolk, papaya milk and juices are also available.

Opinions are split. Fans call it an honest taste of childhood and especially refreshing in summer; others say the pineapple tastes canned, toppings are sparse, plain syrup is used and quality has slipped, so you are paying more for atmosphere than flavour. Sources give no prices, so go by the board in store.

The frontage is unassuming and younger visitors often walk past; look for the rusty sign and the cart. Listed hours are about 11:00–21:00, and sources do not mention a closing day, so check before you go. Papaya Milk King and Gu Yue Guan fried sticky rice are nearby, making an easy Changhua dessert crawl.

It suits anyone craving nostalgic shaved ice and old-street atmosphere; if generous toppings matter to you, keep expectations modest. Order a babao ice and add the old-style pudding (one blogger says two puddings are needed to feel satisfied), and if you prefer less sugar, try the pudding milk instead.