There’s nothing quite like indulging in a cone of sweet, icy goodness on a scorching summer day. As Canberra experiences its share of sizzling temperatures, locals find solace in their favorite ice-cream, gelato, or frozen custard parlors. Whether you prefer a cup or cone, creamy or sorbet, Canberra offers a delightful array of choices for every ice cream enthusiast.
As the saying goes, “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream,” and here are some of our favorite spots in Canberra that are worth shouting about.
Goodberry’s Frozen Custard: A Canberra Classic
Since 1998, Goodberry’s Frozen Custard has been a beloved institution in Canberra, offering a reliable refuge from the heat with its creamy delights. With locations in Erindale, Belconnen, and Franklin, Goodberry’s serves up sundaes, shakes, and cones, but the star of the show is undoubtedly the Concrete. This customizable treat allows patrons to blend their frozen custard base with a variety of mix-ins or choose from expertly crafted flavor pairings like the popular Nutty Professor.
Goodberry’s longevity and popularity are testaments to its ability to consistently deliver quality frozen custard, making it a staple in the local dessert scene.
Gelato Messina: A Taste of Sydney in Canberra
Despite originating in Sydney, Gelato Messina has seamlessly integrated itself into Canberra’s culinary landscape, with locations in Braddon and Kingston. Known for its inventive flavor combinations and classic offerings, Gelato Messina attracts crowds regardless of the weather. From the adventurous Dirty Matcha-Mi-Su to the comforting strawberries and cream, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond gelato, Messina also offers delectable cakes and handmade chocolates, though many find it hard to resist the allure of a simple waffle cone with two scoops of their favorite flavors.
Stripey Sundae: Local Ingredients, Creative Flavors
Located in Nicholls, Stripey Sundae is a locally owned gem that prides itself on crafting small-batch ice creams using fresh, local, and raw ingredients. With a focus on inclusivity, the shop provides a variety of vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options, alongside a rotating selection of flavors that put a creative spin on classic desserts.
Stripey Sundae’s innovative approach is evident in offerings like the jam doughnut ice cream and the daring maple-glazed ham flavor introduced for Christmas. For those looking to make an event memorable, their mobile ice-cream cart can be booked to bring a selection of flavors to any function.
Florence Gelato: Italian Artistry in Belconnen
Florence Gelato, situated in the Capital Food Market, pays homage to owner Matteo Sassi’s Italian roots by employing traditional artisan techniques. Matteo, a skilled pastry chef, infuses his creations with a touch of genius, offering flavors that go beyond the ordinary. From blueberry and lemon myrtle to salted caramel and popcorn, each gelato is a testament to his craft.
A standout is The CBR, a flavor designed to capture the essence of Canberra. Featuring wattle seed, macadamia, raspberry, and caramelized honey brittle, it reflects the city’s unique character and is now a permanent fixture on the Florence menu.
Spilt Milk Gelato Bar: A Local Favorite
Originally from Orange, NSW, Spilt Milk Gelato Bar has found a new home in Dickson under local ownership. Known for its rotating lineup of seasonal flavors, Spilt Milk offers a taste experience that keeps patrons coming back. The pistachio flavor, made with real nuts ground in-house, is a particular favorite among regulars.
Conveniently, Spilt Milk delivers to the inner north, making it an irresistible addition to any outing in Dickson. Whether after a meal or a swim, a visit to Spilt Milk completes the experience.
While these are just a few of Canberra’s beloved ice cream destinations, the city’s dessert scene continues to grow. Keep an eye out for Mellabella Gelato at local events, or try Future Swirl’s vegan options at supermarkets. For those seeking unique flavors, Bubu Ice Cream & Dessert in Dickson offers intriguing Asian-inspired varieties, and Via Dolce in Garema Place remains a popular choice. Meanwhile, Wildflour Cafe introduces a novel twist by serving ice cream in croissants.
Clearly, Canberra’s love for ice cream is as diverse as it is deep. What’s your favorite local spot?
