Ice cream is a universally beloved treat, and certain parlors around the world have elevated this frozen dessert to an art form.
From classic gelato in Italy to innovative flavors in Japan, here are the top 10 ice cream parlors that every ice cream enthusiast should visit.
1. "Giolitti – Rome, Italy"
Giolitti, established in 1900, is one of Rome's oldest and most famous gelaterias. Nestled near the Pantheon, this family-run parlor offers a vast array of flavors made from high-quality ingredients. The texture of their gelato is smooth and creamy, with popular choices including pistachio, stracciatella, and zabaglione. The authentic Roman experience isn't complete without enjoying a scoop from Giolitti.
2. "Berthillon – Paris, France"
Located on the Île Saint-Louis, Berthillon has been a Parisian institution since 1954. Known for its artisanal ice creams and sorbets, Berthillon prides itself on using natural ingredients with no preservatives. Flavors like salted caramel and raspberry sorbet are crowd favorites, and the parlor’s understated elegance reflects its commitment to quality.
3. "Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Columbus, Ohio, USA"
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, founded by Jeni Britton Bauer, revolutionized the American ice cream scene with its innovative flavors and commitment to sustainability. With unique offerings like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Jeni’s has garnered a loyal following. The brand’s emphasis on using grass-grazed milk and responsibly sourced ingredients makes it a standout in the global ice cream market.
4. "Gelateria Dondoli – San Gimignano, Italy"
Tucked away in the medieval town of San Gimignano, Gelateria Dondoli is a two-time winner of the Gelato World Championship. This gelateria is famed for its inventive flavors, such as Crema di Santa Fina, which features saffron and pine nuts, and Champelmo, a refreshing blend of pink grapefruit and sparkling drink. The creative spirit of owner Sergio Dondoli is evident in every scoop.
5. "Vaffelbageriet – Copenhagen, Denmark"
Situated in the heart of Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, Vaffelbageriet is known for its giant waffle cones filled with luscious ice cream and whipped cream. This parlor has been delighting visitors since 1906, offering flavors like licorice and elderflower that reflect Danish tastes. A visit to Vaffelbageriet is as much about the experience as it is about the ice cream.
6. "Ice Cream City – Tokyo, Japan"
Located in Tokyo’s Namja Town, Ice Cream City is a paradise for adventurous ice cream lovers. This quirky ice cream theme park offers over 300 varieties of ice cream, including unconventional flavors like octopus and wasabi. While not every flavor is for the faint-hearted, the sheer variety and creativity make Ice Cream City a must-visit for those looking to expand their palate.
7. "Amy’s Ice Creams – Austin, Texas, USA"
Amy’s Ice Creams is an iconic chain in Austin, Texas, known for its playful atmosphere and unique flavor combinations. Founded in 1984, Amy’s has become a local favorite for its Mexican Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate. The staff, known as “scoops,” are famous for their ice cream throwing tricks, adding an element of fun to the experience.
8. "Gelato Messina – Sydney, Australia"
Gelato Messina has set the standard for gelato in Australia since opening its first store in Sydney in 2002. The parlor is renowned for its dedication to crafting everything in-house, from the milk used to make the gelato to the inclusions like brownies and praline. With over 40 flavors, including standouts like Salted Coconut & Mango Salsa and Tiramisu, Gelato Messina continues to impress both locals and tourists.
9. "Bombay Ice Creamery – San Francisco, California, USA"
Bombay Ice Creamery offers a unique fusion of traditional Indian flavors with classic ice cream. Located in San Francisco, this parlor has gained popularity for its exotic offerings like Mango, Chikoo, and Rose. The creamy texture and intense flavors are a testament to the high-quality ingredients and the artistry behind each creation.
10. "Il Laboratorio del Gelato – New York City, New York, USA"
Il Laboratorio del Gelato, situated on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, is a minimalist haven for gelato enthusiasts. Founded by Jon Snyder, this parlor is known for its meticulous approach to flavor creation, resulting in a menu that includes over 200 flavors, though not all at once. Favorites include Honey Lavender and Olive Oil, each crafted with precision and care.
From the timeless classics of Italy to the bold innovations of Japan, these ice cream parlors offer more than just a sweet treat—they provide a journey through the diverse and creative world of ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or adventurous enough to try something new, these top 10 ice cream parlors should be on every dessert lover’s bucket list.
