A Sweet Escape: Exploring Canberra's Ice Cream Scene
Indulge in the ultimate summer treat and discover why Canberra's ice cream game is on fire!
As the sun beats down and the mercury rises, there's nothing quite like a refreshing scoop of ice cream to beat the heat. We've already had our fair share of scorching days, and what better way to cool off than with a delicious frozen treat? Whether you're a cone or cup kind of person, a creamy gelato or a fruity sorbet fan, Canberra has got you covered.
So, let's dive into some of our favorite ice cream spots in the region and scream our love for these sweet delights!
Goodberry's Frozen Custard: A Canberra Classic
With three locations across the city, Goodberry's has been a beloved institution since 1998. While their sundaes and shakes are fantastic, the real star is their frozen custard. You can customize your own by choosing a base and adding your favorite mix-ins, or opt for one of their expert flavor pairings. The Nutty Professor, a personal favorite, is a perfect blend of nutty goodness. Canberrans have been enjoying this cold treat for over two decades, and it's easy to see why!
Gelato Messina: Sydney's Favorite, Now in Canberra
Rain or shine, Gelato Messina always seems to have a line out the door. This Sydney franchise has found its place in Canberra's heart with its unique flavor combinations and elegant classics. From the adventurous Dirty Matcha-Mi-Su (a matcha tiramisu twist) to the classic strawberries and cream, there's something for every taste. And let's not forget their incredible cakes and handmade chocolates! But for me, it's all about that waffle cone with two scoops of whatever catches my eye.
Stripey Sundae: Locally-Made, Fresh, and Unique
This locally-owned gem crafts its ice cream in small batches using fresh, local, and raw ingredients. With plenty of vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options, Stripey Sundae caters to all. Their flavors are always a creative twist on classics, like jam doughnut ice cream. And their recent Christmas special, a maple-glazed ham flavor, might sound bizarre, but it's a curious adventure worth taking! You can even book their mobile ice cream cart for your next event, making it a memorable experience for your guests. Some flavors feature fruits from local backyards, making it an incredibly fresh and community-driven experience.
Florence Gelato: Italian Artisan Techniques in Belconnen
Named after owner Matteo Sassi's hometown, Florence Gelato brings a touch of Italy to Belconnen. With Matteo's extensive pastry chef experience, the flavors here are exceptional. It's not just blueberry sorbet; it's blueberry with a hint of lemon myrtle. Or how about salted caramel and popcorn, or apricot and rosemary? Matteo's creations are truly works of art. My personal favorite is The CBR, a limited-edition flavor now available year-round. It represents Canberra with wattle seed and macadamia, and the raspberry and caramelized honey brittle capture the city's essence, loved and less-loved parts alike.
Spilt Milk Gelato Bar: A Taste of Orange in Dickson
Originally from Orange, NSW, the Dickson branch of Spilt Milk is now a local favorite. Their pistachio gelato is a standout, made with real nuts ground into a paste in-house, resulting in an incredible flavor. The venue even delivers to the inner north, making it an irresistible temptation! A dinner in Dickson or a pool visit just isn't complete without a stop at Spilt Milk.
Canberra's Ice Cream Scene: A Sweet Adventure
There are so many more local ice cream spots to explore, but we'll leave you with a few more suggestions. Keep an eye out for Mellabella Gelato at special events, or grab a tub of Future Swirl, Canberra's vegan ice cream, at your local supermarket. Bubu Ice Cream & Dessert offers unique Asian flavors, and Via Dolce in Garema Place is a popular spot for a classic scoop. And don't forget Wildflour Cafe, serving ice cream in croissants! It's clear that Canberra has a sweet tooth, but what's your favorite ice cream spot? Let us know in the comments, and share your favorite flavor combinations!
