Editor’s Note: Fru-Lala is now closed.

There are some things that aren’t meant for the subtlest of palates.

Dinkytown’s Korean-owned (the owner, Gloria Kang, is the daughter of the duo behind Dong Yang) frozen yogurt shop, Fru-Lala, offers one such dessert. The “MegaBing,” as it’s called, is no lavender-scented crème caramel — it’s a massive, multi-person celebration of sugar.

Once a refreshing Korean street food comprising shaved ice and adzuki beans, the dessert (generically known as patbingsu) has since evolved to include frozen yogurt and an elaborate array of toppings, piled high like the results of an ice cream sundae free-for-all. Fruit, cereal, nuts, mochi — anything on offer is fair game.

On a recent visit, we ordered Fru-Lala’s MegaBing ($14) with all the bells and whistles: the maximum four fruits (we chose strawberries, bananas, kiwi, and pineapple), three dried toppings (mochi, nuts, and Fruity Pebbles for a little crunch), the requisite yogurt, red beans, and ice, plus a liberal drizzle of sweetened condensed milk. The yogurt’s pleasant tartness balanced the sweetness of the fresh fruit, while the earthiness of the red beans and an extra squeeze or two of sweetened condensed milk easily rounded out the thin, flat taste of the ice. With their gummy texture and mild, sweet flavor the pieces of mochi proved popular, sought out like marshmallows in a bowl of Lucky Charms. The MegaBing certainly has a lot going on — but if you’re in the mood for a refreshing cacophony of flavors, this bad boy’s your best bet.

If mixing flavors just isn’t your thing, Fru-Lala offers a standard yogurt menu and full espresso bar, and, if you pre-order, panchan (side dishes) from Dong Yang are available for Saturday morning pickup.

…But if you’re like us, you’ll be at your happiest when you’re fishing the last pieces of mochi from the melted, confetti-colored remains of your dessert.

Fru-Lala

Frozen Yogurt

1315 4th St SE

Minneapolis, MN 55401

612.353.4986

OWNER: Gloria Kang

HOURS:

Mon-Sat 12pm-10pm

Sun 12pm-7pm