The Best Ice Cream Shops Around the World That Are Worth Traveling For

Ice cream is a universal delight, beloved by people of all ages. There’s something special about enjoying a scoop (or two) of creamy, frozen bliss on a hot summer day or after a long week. For ice cream enthusiasts, certain shops around the globe have made their mark with unique flavors, artisanal techniques, and delightful presentation. In this article, we explore some of the best ice cream shops that every traveler should consider visiting.

1. Gelato Messina – Sydney, Australia

Established in 2002, Gelato Messina has gained a cult following for its rich and unique gelato flavors. The owners, Nick Palumbo and his team of gelato artisans, pride themselves on using only the best ingredients and no artificial additives.

**What to Try:**
One of their most popular flavors, ‘Salted Caramel’, is a must-try. Additionally, their rotating specials often feature globally inspired options such as ‘Pistachio Baklava’ and ‘Stracciatella with Citrus Zest’ that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Gelato Messina also offers gelato cakes and take-home tubs, allowing you to indulge in their creations long after your visit.

2. Ample Hills Creamery – Brooklyn, New York, USA

Ample Hills Creamery started as a humble venture by husband-and-wife team Brian and Jackie Smith in 2011. They focus on using fresh, local ingredients, and each batch is crafted in small quantities to ensure quality and flavor.

**What to Try:**
Be sure to sample their signature flavor ‘Salted Crack Caramel,’ which combines caramel ice cream with house-made chocolate-covered crackers and a swirling layer of caramel sauce. Their whimsical mix-ins and unique flavor names, like ‘The Munchies’, make this shop a fun destination for all ice cream lovers.

3. Gelato Fior di Latte – Florence, Italy

In the birthplace of gelato, Gelato Fior di Latte stands out for its simple yet authentic approach. Their philosophy centers around the essence of flavors, offering high-quality ingredients with minimal interference.

**What to Try:**
Visitors rave about their ‘Pistachio’ gelato, crafted from Sicilian nuts, and the ‘Fior di Latte’, a milk-flavored gelato that showcases dairy’s creamy texture. With artisanal craftsmanship and a rich history, this shop embodies the true spirit of Italian gelato.

4. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Columbus, Ohio, USA

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams began as a small venture in 2002 and has since expanded to numerous locations across the United States. Known for embracing unique flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients, Jeni’s redefines how we enjoy ice cream.

**What to Try:**
One of their standout flavors is ‘Brown Butter Almond Brittle’, a rich and nutty delight that’ll have you coming back for more. For fruit lovers, the ‘Goat Cheese with Fig’ flavor is equally compelling, showcasing how Jeni’s creative approach can transform traditional tastes into extraordinary desserts.

5. Il Laboratorio del Gelato – New York City, USA

Located in Manhattan, Il Laboratorio del Gelato has garnered a reputation for its innovative approach to gelato-making. Their passionate chefs focus on creating fresh, small-batch gelato daily, offering an ever-evolving selection of flavors.

**What to Try:**
With over 200 flavors rotating throughout the seasons, you can’t go wrong with their ‘Chocolate Hazelnut’ or ‘Coconut’ while also exploring creative flavors like ‘Sweet Corn’ that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream.

6. La Coppa Gelateria – Cluj-Napoca, Romania

For those traveling through Romania, La Coppa Gelateria is a hidden gem that marries classic Italian gelato-making techniques with local flavors. This cozy shop is beloved by locals and travelers alike.

**What to Try:**
Try their ‘Lavender and Honey’ gelato for something unique, or their rich ‘Dark Chocolate’ made from high-quality cocoa, which is perfect for chocolate lovers.

7. The Milk Train – London, UK

As one of the most Instagrammable ice cream shops, The Milk Train features soft serve piled high, and one of their signature touches is wrapping your cone in candy floss (cotton candy).

**What to Try:**
Their ‘Matcha Soft Serve’ is a crowd favorite, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the ‘Charcoal Vanilla’ is also an excellent choice. With a delightful ambiance and playful concept, this shop is a must-see.

8. Paradice Cream – Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Paradice Cream is a tropical paradise for ice cream lovers. Serving up soft serve with an island twist, the shop focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients featuring a unique flavor mix of Hawaiian influences.

**What to Try:**
Don’t miss out on their ‘Maui Lavender Honey’ or ‘Ube’ which are favorites among customers. The tropical setting and refreshing flavors make it a perfect pit stop while exploring Hawaii.

Conclusion

From the streets of Florence to bustling New York City and other corners of the globe, these ice cream shops offer tastes that go far beyond the ordinary. Each destination not only serves exemplary ice cream but also tells a unique story through flavors and ingredients. Next time you find yourself exploring new places, make sure to seek out these iconic spots for a sweet, creamy treat that’s worth the journey. Whether you’re sampling classic flavors or diving into experimental taste adventures, these ice cream shops will provide delicious memories that last well beyond your travels.