Far East Treat

Fire and ice.

These opposing forces are the inspiration for Kasai & Koori, a new Asian dessert restaurant with locations in Delray Beach and Boynton Beach. (Other locales in Pembroke Pines and Fort Lauderdale are being planned.)

Menu highlights include Japanese kakigori, made from shaved blocks of ice and garnished with flavors and toppings; ribbon ice, a thin-shaved ice delicacy from Southeast Asia; and taiyaki waffle cones, which are shaped like fish and filled with ice cream and toppings.

“In Japan, we have watched locals form lines each and every day around the block just to taste these desserts, often ordering two or more at a time,” said Taylor Levy, who co-owns Kasai & Koori with Lee Goldberg, in a press release. “We know we are able to offer something so distinct with the opening of Kasai & Koori and look forward to bringing our menu all across the nation.”

Kakigori, originally reserved for Japanese royalty, can be enjoyed with several flavors. On Valentine’s Day, why not indulge in the True Romance? It’s peach shaved ice with white chocolate mint sauce, peach jam and chopped fresh mint.

Ribbon ice flavors include the Dark Warrior, which is sure to put some pep in your step thanks to its combination of coffee ribbon ice, coffee sauce, dolce de leche, toasted almonds and koori whipped cream.

Other treats include artisanal mochi, savory taiyaki sandwiches and three flavors of flavored ice infused with alcohol.

As for the name? A press release explains: “The name Kasai & Koori is derivative of the Japanese terms fire and ice, representative of polarizing forces coming together to deliver a truly unique experience in an upscale environment.” 

Kasai & Koori is located at 8784 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. #104, Boynton Beach, and 25 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach. For more information, visit kasiandkoori.com. 

Photos by Libby Volgyes