By Summer Hampton
The people of Hernando County continue to show their support to our medical personnel all around the county, with the food truck called 808 Island Treats as no exception to that.
Like many other businesses in Hernando County, 808 Island Treats had to close for 14 days due to COVID-19 regulations. But in the face of complications, we must look for new ways to move forward and that’s exactly what Michael and Cherise Romeo, owners of 808 Island Treats, did on Monday, April 15th.
The pair set up their shaved ice on wheels, aka food truck, at Oakhill Hospital to give back to the hospital’s medical staff. This is a great thing that companies are doing. No one could’ve prepared for this pandemic, so a lot of eateries are donating their unused product instead of throwing it away. This is a way to share positivity and light with our hospital staff who are holding us together during these dark times. Besides making use for unused products, Michael and Cherise Romeo just wanted to show that they care about the community they’re a part of. Especially on a hot day like Monday, who wouldn’t want a shaved ice pick-me-up?
With over 25 flavors, you can mix and match to your heart’s desire. Some of the flavors include: guava, cotton candy, strawberry, blue raspberry, sweet tea, mango, peach, and more. For 0.75 cents, you can add ice cream to the mix and top it all off with sweetened condensed milk. The endless combinations of flavors are enough to ensure your spot as a regular here. 808 Island Treats also has catering options for birthdays, schools, events, sports, and fundraisers. They’re even vetted and carded for schools in Hernando County.
For a little background, 808 Island Treats started out as two small tables and a tent located at farmers markets. In the two years that followed, business took off and allowed for them to open up a food truck, which they have been using to serve Hernando County. Now, they’re opening up a store on the corner of Mariner and County Line Rd hopefully by June 1st of this year. The new store will be located at 138 Mariner Blvd Spring Hill, FL 34609.
Also, this eatery is veteran owned and operated, with Cherise serving 15 years and Michael serving 28 years in the US Army. Cherise was born and raised in Hawaii and Michael was stationed there, where shaved ice and food trucks are a popular indulgence. When they moved to Hernando County they were surprised that they couldn’t find shaved ice anywhere. Longing for the familiar treat, the couple purchased an at home shaved ice maker. The Romeo’s then made shaved ice desserts at every family function until eventually friends and family advised them to make a business out of it. Hernando County deserved such a delicious treat! Taking this advice, 808 Island Treats has turned into what it is today.
When the new store opens, be sure to stop by and show your support. Your taste buds will thank you.
Contact info for 808 Island Treats:
Phone number (808) 291-3629
Find on Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp @808ISLANDTREATS
Email [email protected]
