Famous Taiwan shaved ice shop closes: Ice Monster in Taipei unexpectedly shut down

A normally bustling Ice Monster still closed on January 30th, 2010
Photo Credit: Brett Domue

For travelers with upcoming plans to visit Taiwan, you can cross one stop off your list.  Sadly, the famed Ice Monster shaved ice dessert shop in Taipei closed its doors earlier this month, without any warning or initial explanation behind the sudden closure.  Rumors began circulating that the Ice Monster owner, Mr. Frank Lo, closed the shop to avoid paying court ordered alimony to his ex-wife. 

The famed Ice Monster is known around the world for their signature mango shaved ice, earning a spot in almost any guidebook on Taiwan, and even a mention in the New York Times.  On any given day, throngs of loyal fans would line up for these delicious shaved ice creations, with Ice Monster serving sometimes up to 10,000 desserts per day. 

Last week, Mr. Lo finally broke his silence in a press release issued by his attorneys, explaining the reasons behind the sudden closure and refuting the allegations by his ex-wife's family.  Mr. Lo cited insolvency as the primary reason behind the sudden decision to close up in the morning hours of January 15th.  He claimed that property liens and the requirment to pay half of the net proceeds to his ex-wife left him unable to cover daily operating expenses. 

In business since 1995, Ice Monster was located on the popular YongKang Street in Taipei, near other famous restaurants such as Din Tai Fung, Kao-chi, and Tu Hsaio Yueh - all restaurants that have played an important role in Taiwan's history.  

Ice Monster offered a variety of delicious Taiwan shaved ice desserts, which consisted of large bowls of finely shaved ice, served with a variety of toppings and condensed milk to add that final sweet touch. Some of the most popular offerings included the fresh mango (when in season), the mixed fruit consisting of kiwi, mango (canned), and strawberry chunks, topped with mango ice cream and kiwi sorbet, and the rock mochi.   

Much to the disappointment of fans, it does not appear Ice Monster will return to the original location.  Mr. Lo is hoping to look for a new property in three months or so, with no current timeframe of when Ice Monster might reopen.

For Sacramento travelers looking to visit Taipei, China Airlines is currently running a special "Love is in the Air" deal for travel to Taipei or Kaohsiung out of SFO, available for travel on February 14th only. For those wishing to travel on other days, direct flights available out of SFO, providing the shortest flight times, cheaper fares, and most direct routes to Taiwan versus flying out of SMF. Flights with one or more connection available on Star Alliance and SkyTeam Partner carriers departing from either SFO or SMF.