Brisbane’s weather is pretty much perfect for ice cream or gelato all year round. We’re not discriminating between ice cream and gelato, either. Each has its loyal following and we’ve all got our own tastes. But if you’re not sure which you prefer, then you’re just going to have to taste them both (or all).
1. La Macelleria Gelateri, various locations
When you talk about gelato, you’re talking about Italy and the owners of La Macelleria want you to know that their hometown is in fact the Bologna, the Italian capital of Gelato. But not only that, one of the owners worked gained his gelato credentials in one of Bologna’s most famous gelato joints in the world, La Sorbetteria Castiglione. And then they’ve both studied it at school.
In other words, this gelato is serious science and business, which is why they also hold workshops in making your own gelato at their West End venue. If you want to taste gelato just like they make it in Italy, this is probably your best bet in Brisbane.
You can find La Macelleria in Teneriffe, West End, King Street and Coorparoo.
2. Lick! Ice Creams, various locations
Lick! has been making all natural ice cream since 2004, and they’ve been supplying EKKA with its Strawberry Sundae since 2011. But it wasn’t until 2015 that the premium ice cream makers in Queensland opened up their first store. Since then, they’ve opened up two more (three if you include the wholesale location) and we can’t get enough.
Its 24 ice cream and sorbet flavour range can be found at all stores but the real cherry on top is the innovation of new flavours, which is pretty much a constant so long as local products from primary producers are available. Lately, they’ve also been trying their hand at vegan flavours too. So keep an eye out for them on your socials.
Find Lick! in Paddington, Graceville and Morningside.
3. Happy Pops, South Bank
Who would’ve thought that ice cream on a stick would be such a hit? Well, doesn’t matter because Happy Pops make gelato and made their way from Noosa to South Bank and have been delighting us with its all natural and preservative-free flavours since 2019.
You can even make your own happy pop in store by choosing from gelato, sorbet, yoghurt, brownie, or waffle, then chocolate submersion or just a drizzle, followed by toppings. Instant happiness.
Pop into Happy Pops South Bank and you won’t be disappointed. They’ve even made crafty solution to stop the inevitable drip.
4. Milani Gelato, Hamilton
If you’ve got a dietary requirement, but don’t want to sacrifice quality or the all-important little treat, then Milani Gelato is the place for you. Not only do they do the traditional style — in over 40 award-winning flavours, no less! — but they also do dairy-free, vegan, and low-sugar options, so nobody will miss out on the tasty fun!
Find Milani Gelato in Hamilton.
5. Gelato Messina, South Brisbane & Fortitude Valley
In this gelateria’s 40-flavour cabinet, you’ll find 35 traditional, swoon-worthy flavours and 5 rotating weekly specials, that are sure to pique your curiosity. In addition, they make all of their toppings in-house, so it’s almost like getting double dessert! Who doesn’t want double dessert?
Find Gelato Messina in South Brisbane and Fortitude Valley.
Editorial contribution by: MJ Gayón.