There’s nothing better than a cold and creamy sweet treat on a warm day. Although we have some great prepackaged options available at our local Woolies or 7-Eleven… think Bubble O’Bills to take you back to your childhood, delectable Golden Gaytimes, indulgent Magnums and more… Sydney is home to some incredible ice creameries and gelaterias that you need to know about when that craving hits. From classic to innovative flavours and intolerance or vegan friendly options, Sydney definitely has it all.
Here are our top picks:
RivaReno
RivaReno is committed to using authentic traditional Italian recipes, but adding their own unique touch of creativity. Their gelatos are created in their “laboratorio” in store only a few hours before serving!
RivaReno also uses natural and high quality ingredients (they source their milk all the way from the pastures in the Stura Valley, Piedmont) and their gelatos are free from hydrogenated fats, artificial colourings, flavourings and preservatives.
VIVE team flavour pick: Alice – Mascarpone combined with Marsala ‘Vergine Soleras’ and topped with melted gianduia (chocolate & hazelnut)
Location: Multiple locations – Darlinghurst, Barangaroo & Parramatta
Website: rivareno.com.au
Instagram: @rivarenogelatoaus
Gelato Franco
If you want to experience authentic old-school Italian gelato, then head over to Gelato Franco, where they make deliciously creamy gelato and sorbetto the old fashioned way!
Franco Riservato, the owner of Gelato Franco, has been making gelato since the mid 90’s. As you order your scoop, you’ll be able to see their vintage gelato machine at the back of the shop.
Gelato Franco offers around 18 flavours that are made up of classic flavours and creative flavours (depending on the season and Riservato’s preference).
VIVE team flavour pick: Lemon Sorbetto
Location: 281 Marrickville Road, Marrickville, NSW, Australia 2204
Facebook: facebook.com/Gelatofranco
Instagram: @gelatofranco
Mapo
If we could describe Mapo in three words, they would be: “simple”, “natural” and “artisan”.
Mapo are the newer kids on the block when it comes to delectable gelato, but has easily become one of our favourite gelaterias in Sydney.
Mapo prides themselves on being a sustainable company that sources their raw and fresh ingredients from local farmers. Their gelato is made fresh in store everyday and is natural and free from aromas & colouring agents.
VIVE team flavour pick: Pistachio
Location: 2 locations – Newtown & Bondi Beach
Website: maponewtown.com
Instagram: @mapo_gelato
Cow and the Moon
You have probably heard of this one as it’s one of the first places Sydney-siders think of when they crave gelato. Cow and the Moon is an award winning gelateria, having won the title ‘World’s Best Gelato’ in 2014. The owner, John, has been making gelato since 1993 and is constantly developing new flavours with a focus on texture and balance.
Cow and the Moon makes their gelato in house and there are 26 flavours to choose from everyday. PLUS, they offer amazing gelato cakes using their famous flavours to celebrate any occasion.
VIVE team flavour pick: Peanutzilla
Location: 181 Enmore Road, Enmore, Sydney
Website: cowandthemoon.com.au
Instagram: @cowandthemoon
Hakiki
Hakiki’s Turkish ice cream is unlike any other. Although Turkish ice cream seems to have a harder and chewier texture than traditional ice cream, it’s actually very smooth and melts like butter when it hits the tongue.
Turkish ice cream is traditionally served plain with a sprinkle of pistachio and served with a knife and fork. Hakiki has added their own spin on this traditional dish by creating a range of delicious flavours, for example Melon & Feta, Baklava, Turkish Delight, Sticky Date & Pecan… and more!
VIVE team flavour pick: Melon & Feta
Location: Shop 1, 63-71 Enmore Rd Newtown NSW 2042
Website: hakiki.com.au
Instagram: @hakiki_newtown
Gelato Messina
In each Gelato Messina store, a gelateria known for their creative & unique flavours, you’ll find a 40 flavour cabinet, with 35 traditional flavours and 5 rotating weekly specials. There really is something for everyone here! They go above and beyond gelato and serve up delicious desserts such as mango pancakes and incredible cakes that have been featured on Master Chef.
Gelato Messina prides themselves on high quality gelato made with only the best ingredients. This is why they have their own dairy farm and they make their own chocolate using Ecuadorian cacao, which is next level!
VIVE team flavour pick: Panna Cotta with Fig Jam and Amaretti Biscuit
Location: Multiple locations (11 across Sydney)
Website: gelatomessina.com
Instagram: @gelatomessina
Oh! Matcha
Oh! Matcha specialises in bringing natural and healthy Japanese flavours into a contemporary style cafe setting. Apart from their range of refreshing beverages, Oh! Matcha also makes their own Matcha soft serve.Get a little taste of Japan through their soft-serve flavours including: Matcha, Black Sesame and Azuki.
VIVE team flavour pick: Matcha Soft Serve
Location: 2 locations in Sydney – Regent Place & World Square
Website: ohmatcha.com.au
Instagram: @ohmatcha.sydney
Whether you’re a gelato, soft serve or sorbet type of person, Sydney has got you covered. If you have a favourite ice creamery that we didn’t mention, let us know on Instagram! We would love to hear your recommendations.
