Canberra’s Coolest spots for Ice Cream, Gelato, and Frozen Custard
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As the weather heats up in Canberra, there’s no better way to cool down than with a tasty frozen treat. From classic ice cream parlours to innovative gelato shops and creamy frozen custard, Canberra offers a delightful range of options for satisfying your sweet tooth. This guide highlights some of the city’s most beloved destinations for ice cream, gelato, and frozen custard.
Goodberry’s Frozen Custard
A Canberra institution since 1998, Goodberry’s Frozen Custard has three locations-Erindale, Belconnen, and Franklin-serving up classic frozen custard treats.While sundaes, shakes and cones are available, many locals rave about the “concrete,” a customizable blend of frozen custard and mix-ins.Expert pairings are also available, with the “Nutty Professor” being a notably popular choice.
Gelato Messina
Hailing from Sydney, Gelato Messina has quickly become a Canberra favourite with locations in Braddon and Kingston.Known for it’s adventurous flavor combinations alongside elegant classics, Messina consistently draws queues even on colder evenings.Patrons can enjoy everything from the inventive “dirty Matcha-mi-Su” (matcha tiramisu) to simple strawberry and cream. Beyond gelato, Messina also offers a selection of cakes and handmade chocolates.
Stripey Sundae
Located in Nicholls, Stripey Sundae is a locally owned business dedicated to crafting small-batch ice cream using fresh, local, and raw ingredients. They cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options.Expect a rotating cast of creative flavours, occasionally including unusual (but intriguing!) concoctions like a maple-glazed ham flavour. Stripey Sundae also offers a mobile ice cream cart for events.
Florence Gelato
Florence Gelato, found at the Capital Food Market, brings authentic Italian artisan techniques to Canberra, thanks to owner Matteo Sassi’s extensive pastry experience. Flavours go beyond the ordinary, incorporating combinations like blueberry and lemon myrtle, or salted caramel and popcorn. Their signature flavour,”The CBR,” is inspired by the city itself,featuring wattle seed,macadamia,raspberry,and caramelised honey brittle,representing the various facets of Canberra life.
spilt Milk Gelato Bar
Originally from Orange, NSW, the Dickson branch of Spilt Milk Gelato Bar has become a local favourite. Known for its rotating seasonal flavours, the pistachio gelato – made with nuts ground in-house – is a standout. Spilt Milk also offers delivery to the inner north.
Other Local Favourites
Beyond these featured spots, Canberra’s ice cream scene has plenty more to offer. Keep an eye out for Mellabella Gelato at local events and festivals. For vegan options, Future Swirl is available at select supermarkets. Bubu Ice Cream & Dessert in Dickson serves up unique Asian-inspired flavours, and Via Dolce in Garema Place is a popular spot for a fast scoop.Even Wildflour Cafe is getting in on the action, now serving ice cream in croissants!
With so many delicious options, canberra truly is a haven for ice cream lovers.