Hobo Joe’s

Hobo Joe’s Shaved Ice has become a true staple in Benton, but its roots go back decades to a family tradition. The business traces its beginnings to the owner’s uncle, who opened Hobo Joe’s in Malvern 43 years ago. That location is still operating today. In the late 1990s, Holly Burris’ grandmother ran the stand, and as a high school senior, she learned the ins and outs of the business by helping there. 

Years later, when her husband Jeff needed something to fill the gap between duck hunting seasons (he operated a guide service), shaved ice proved to be the perfect fit. They launched their own operation in a trailer in Bismarck before eventually relocating to Benton, where long lines quickly became their best form of advertising. 

Customers were drawn to the low prices, friendly service, and generous flavoring. After outgrowing the trailer, they secured a building in early 2020 and opened that June right in the middle of the Covid pandemic. With everything operating to-go only, they still had a standout first year and have continued to grow ever since.

The name “Hobo Joe’s” carries both history and a bit of legend. It comes from “Hobo Joe’s,” the original Malvern stand, which itself was named by a man who sold shaved ice machines and flavors out of Louisiana, where the business still sources its supplies today. The name stuck because it already had recognition and a reputation for high-quality shaved ice with bold flavors and plenty of syrup. 

Unlike some competitors, they skip elaborate tops that can fall off and instead focus on soaking the ice with flavor, Holly notes. They also make their own ice, which helps maintain consistency and keep prices affordable. According to local legend, “Hobo Joe” was a traveling Southern businessman with a refined taste for all things delicious. If he said something was good, it was the best.

The Benton community has played a major role in shaping the business. Loyal customers return year after year, recommend the shop to others, and genuinely appreciate both the pricing and the service. Many who once biked to the South Street location as kids now bring their own children.  

Jeff has built a reputation for remembering customers’ exact preferences, from flavor combinations to syrup levels, even down to a child’s favorite straw color. Some regulars admit they don’t even know their own order. Jeff simply makes it when he sees them. That level of personal connection, combined with large orders for schools and local businesses — sometimes as many as 400 at a time — has made Hobo Joe’s a community favorite.

Creativity also plays a big role in the menu. While some flavors have been passed down, new ones often come from experimentation or clever rebranding, Holly says. For example, “Black Panther,” a mix of black cherry and blackberry, made those less popular flavors appealing to kids. A customer even inspired their “Harry Potter” flavor after explaining butterbeer, turning butterscotch into a top seller. 

Other creations, like Banana Pudding and Key Lime Pie, came from hands-on trial and error, almost making Holly sick from tasting so many combinations, she laughs. Seasonal menus and upcoming summer launches keep things fresh and encourage customers to try something new.

A perfect summer day at Hobo Shaved Ice is simple: sunshine, temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees, and a packed lobby from open to close. That’s also when business hits its peak. Once school lets out for summer, the pace becomes intense, with a well-coordinated team working multiple ice shavers while another staff member manages supplies, large orders, and cleanup to keep everything moving efficiently, Holly explains.

Community partnerships are another point of pride. The business has strong ties with local schools, including Benton Middle School, where honor roll students receive free shaved ice coupons. That comes full circle for Holly as she’s a former teacher there. Fundraising collaborations with groups like Benton Cheer and Ringgold PTO have been especially successful, with one event raising over $800. 

They’ve also worked with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, childcare centers, and local churches, often creating memorable experiences where kids receive free treats thanks to community sponsors.

Families are drawn to Hobo Joe’s Shaved Ice for its affordability and variety. With over 90 flavors and prices starting as low as $2.50, it’s an accessible treat for everyone. The indoor, year-round setup is another advantage, offering a cool, comfortable space even on the hottest or rainiest days.

Looking ahead, the business is focused on growth and outreach, Holly says. A new trailer equipped with two shavers will allow them to serve larger events, and they hope to expand delivery services during the winter months, especially to offices and schools. Fundraising partnerships are also a key focus, offering organizations an easy and effective way to raise money.

As for the future, there are dreams of expansion—possibly new locations or even a larger flagship space with multiple shavers, shaded seating, and areas for kids to play while families gather. For now, with school-aged children still in their house, they’re taking things one step at a time. 

But their passion for the business and the community makes one thing clear: Hobo Joe’s Shaved Ice plans to be around for a long time.