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Read MoreThe 12 Best Gelato Shops in Toronto [2022]
Gelato is a delicious Italian dessert that is made with milk, cream, sugar and eggs. It has a higher fat content than ice cream, which gives it its characteristic creamy texture. Gelato also contains less air than ice cream, so it’s denser and richer in flavour.
Toronto is home to some of the best gelato places in North America! If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy an amazing bowl of this tasty treat, look no further – we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we will introduce you to 12 of our favourite gelaterias in Toronto. From classic flavours like pistachio and hazelnut to more exotic options like lychee and durian fruit, these places have something for everyone!
Summary
How We Selected Our Top Gelato Shops
When deciding which gelato places to include on our list, we looked for a few key characteristics that can make or break a gelateria:
- Quality: there are many places that sell “gelato”, but not all of them are actually made in-house. For this list, we wanted to include only the best spots for authentic Italian-style gelato.
- Variety: everyone loves a good listicle, but we also wanted to include gelato places that offer lots of different flavours so there’s something for everyone on your list!
- Price: Toronto is an expensive place, so we didn’t want to include any spots that would break the bank – especially if you’re just there for a gelato! All of these places have a great selection of flavours, but they’re all reasonably priced.
- Customer Reviews: you can’t always trust what a place looks like, so we decided to include some customer reviews to give you an idea of what each gelato spot is really like.
The Best Gelato Places in Toronto
Now that you know how this list was made, it’s time to take a look at the best places for gelato in Toronto!
1. Kekou Gelato
At Kekou Gelato, you’ll find simple yet delicious gelato flavours. With egg yolks, milk, sugar and a touch of cream as the main ingredients, this spot focuses on providing the best tasting gelato without using complicated or hard-to-find ingredients.
They offer many different gelato flavours including Hojichi (a Japanese green tea), Earl Grey, almond tofu (made with real almonds), strawberry sake and vegan coconut.
Plus, they’re located in Chinatown so you can explore the neighbourhood while enjoying some unique durian fruit flavour that’s hard to find at an average gelato spot.
Business Information:
Address: 5359 Yonge St, North York, ON M2N 5R8
Phone: 416-792-8876
Website: kekou.ca
Customer Review Highlight:
"The BEST flavours, easy to use self serve wickets and friendly service. Tried jasmine tea and Thai tea Gelato and it was excellent! The flavours really pop while not being very sweet. Eat it quick though because it melts quickly, but worth it!"
- Adam Chua
"Have tried the gelato and bbt with different combos and they were delicious! The tapioca is really nice, fresh, and chewy. And some interesting flavours of tea and gelato. Have tried Saigon Fog + Vietnamese Coffee, Saigon Fog + Thai Iced Tea, and Rose Honey + Almond Tofu Gelato. Definitely recommend anyone to check this place out!"
- Jocelyn Y
2. Hollywood Gelato
Hollywood Gelato is all about creating innovative, fun and delicious gelato. They have over 200 recipes in their repertoire and are always adding more to the mix. Of these recipes, you’ll find 22 of the top-selling flavours on display in their store at any given time.
All of Hollywood Gelato’s gelato is made in-house with only the finest ingredients available – so you know it will be good! You’re sure to struggle to find another gelateria that can replicate their unique flavours at Hollywood Gelato.
They offer traditional gelato flavours such as Pistachio, Hazelnut and Lemon. Non-traditional classics such as Cookies nʼ Cream, Peanut Butter Chocolate Wafer and Skor have also become their standard.
Business Information:
Address: 1640 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4G 3B7
Phone: (416) 544-9829
Website: hollywoodgelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"Generous portion with reasonable price. Plenty flavors. They also have aromatic coffee too. The host is friendly and you can scan menu while waiting in line, quick service, less than 2 mins and you get everything you wish "
- Henry Ha
"Impromptu decision to visit this place, was taken back with an awe. Awesome staff and owner, flavor selection is so vibrant that it may take a day to decide what you would like to have but staff is there to help! Highly recommend"
- Anugrah Mukhi
3. Death in Venice Gelato
Death in Venice is named after the 1979 Italian-French drama directed by Luchino Visconti, based on the novella of the same title by Thomas Mann.
They produce approximately 52 flavours that change seasonally – but their summertime flavours are constantly changing, with around 10-15 available for scooping and another 20 + flavours available for sale in pints at any given time!
Some of their most popular flavours include Pistachio Baklava, Turkish Coffee and White Chocolate Almond. Plus they even have vegan flavours that are perfect for everyone!
Business Information:
Address: 1418 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y5
Phone: (416) 509-3044
Website: deathinvenice.ca
Customer Review Highlight:
"Price is a bit on the high end, 2 scoops in a cup about $8. However, good tasting ice cream, not too sweet. Good for once in a while indulgence. In picture I got Turkish Delight (nice flavor) and peanut butter croissant (ok)."
- Jo
"I have tried their gelato in The Tampered Press coffee shop once, and it was so nice. Today I had a scoop of chocolate coconut and vanilla flavor. It lit saved me from the almost melting summer heat. Highly recommend it!!"
- Judy Z
4. Lick It Gelato
If you’re looking for a delicious treat that won’t disappoint, then head on over to Lick It Gelato! This cafe offers artisan gelato made in-house along with espresso drinks, baked goods and sandwiches.
You’ll be spoilt for choice with their mouth-watering flavours like vanilla, banana, mango cheesecake, peanut butter and jam, roasted marshmallow chocolate – the list goes on! The flavours are always perfectly balanced and not overwhelmingly sweet at the same time. So make sure you stop by this must-try place today!
Business Information:
Address: 250 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2N2
Phone: (647) 338-0074
Website: lickitgelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"They offer a variety of mouth watering flavours. I tried vanilla, banana, mango cheesecake, peanut butter and jam, roasted marshmallow and chocolate until now. Will try the remaining in my upcoming visits. The rates are so reasonable approx $7. Yummy!!!"
- Ankur Shahi
"I have had lavender gelato at other places, and it always missed the “lavender” flavour! But here it was perfect, and not overwhelmingly sweet at the same time. A must try place! And don’t mind me walking around enjoying my gelato during winter!"
- Kesikan Jayaraj
5. Dolce Gelato E Cafe
Dolce Gelato E Cafe is your one-stop-shop for all things gelato. Offering dozens of flavours plus Italian-style desserts and specialty coffees, their three locations on Danforth Avenue, College Street and Kensington Market are sure to have something that everyone will love.
From traditional favourites like banana, espresso and raspberry to more unique flavours like ‘Menta’ – there’s something for everyone at Dolce Gelato E Cafe.
Plus, they offer cup sizes in small, medium and large as well as cones including the classic plain cone or sugar cone – whichever you prefer!
Business Information:
Address: 697 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1B9
Phone: (416) 915-0756
Website: dolcegelato.net
Customer Review Highlight:
FANTASTIC GELATO! open until 10pm. You can get 2 flavors in a small cup. The speculoos cookie butter was fantatic. Customer service was also awesome! It's the only place I want gelato from now on.
- Safwath Farooqui
"Who knew such a small place will have such a great gelato! Will come here again and again cause it was so delicious! Mango tasted so rich, pistachio gelato was strong, yet vibrant and natural. For sure great place to get you dessert!"
- Olga Hnat
6. XO Gelato
XO Gelato is a family-run business that has been serving delicious treats for over 40 years. They pride themselves on creating unique and innovative flavours, with chocolate being their simple staple.
However, the real show stoppers here are their fruit flavours – some cream-based, some iced-based, they are just out of this world and done better than most!
Gelato is their main specialty and it’s made fresh on premises from fresh milk and the highest quality of ingredients. Besides gelatos, they also offer waffles, crepes, panini & espresso drinks – perfect for any occasion!
Business Information:
Address: 647 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON M4S 2M9
Phone: (416) 488-2663
Website: xogelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"I love their icecreams.. never had an ice cream anywhere else after eating here.Mango, pistachio, hazelnut, caramel, chocolate hazelnut, chili chocolate, omg.. so many options. . I take atleast 15 mins to select what I want to eat and after having that, skip my next meal (coz it fills you).Love it.. definitely recommend"
- Vandana Lalwani
"Who doesn't like a good Gelato? No one of course, so there's no reason not to like this place! Their affogato was excellent, I didn't expect much from the espresso but it's surprisingly palatable. Definitely recommend stopping here if you just left a nearby restaurant."
- J Chan
7. Futura Granita + Gelato
At Futura, they honour that essence of great gelato by crafting the most natural gelato possible; from the organic milk base to the infusions, they make everything in-house, with no shortcuts or preservatives.
As in the Italian tradition, they offer milk-based gelato and water-based sorbetto, but also offer a rotation of vegan-friendly flavours – made with either a water or cashew base.
At Futura, they’re excited to continue that tradition of using only natural ingredients to create granita’s using some of the freshest seasonal fruit their local producers have to offer!
Business Information:
Address: 964 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6E 1A1
Phone: (647) 812-2131
Website: welcometothefutura.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"Best gelato in town. You will not regret it. Doesn't matter where you are in the GTA because it's worth the drive. Lois is always so nice. Love that they have kiddie size because I can never chose between gelato or granita so that size allows me to eat both!"
- Lulu Minh
"I had the jasmine rice and cacao nib crunch.. tough time deciding which is better because they were both so DELICIOUS! Top tier gelato, really loved it. And they add new flavours often so I’ll definitely be returning. "
- Andre Chin
8. Hotel Gelato
Google/Quinnie
Hotel Gelato is the perfect spot to meet up with friends, treat your family or just take a break and enjoy a great meal. They offer breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch and off-site gelato catering – so there’s definitely something for everyone!
In addition, their wide variety of flavours will leave you spoilt for choice. The mascarpone with raspberry and chocolate hazelnut is definitely worth trying if you haven’t already.
Plus, the service here is very friendly – the staff are always happy to recommend different flavours depending on what you’re in the mood for. If you’re looking for somewhere to get some delicious gelato then this is definitely it!
Business Information:
Address: 532 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M5N 1B4
Phone: (416) 932-2663
Website: hotelgelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"Excellent place. Clean and beautiful. Options for treats for vegans and gf. Coffee is high quality and the Gelato is amazing. They also have food and brunch. Was a little surprised to be served in a paper cup and take out bags because it was after 3."
- Shirley Katz
"I went there yesterday for banana and roasted corn gelato. OMG! taste like heaven! Right sweetness. Perfect texture! Definitely will recommend this to my families and friends! Staff are extremely friendly and accommodating."
- renz tampengco
9. Nani's Gelato
Nani’s Gelato was created with the goal of changing the way frozen desserts are served in Toronto. Nani’s produces hundreds of gelato flavors and sorbettos that include dairy and non-dairy (vegan) options.
Their specialty is in the production of authentic Indian, Asian and Italian gelato flavours – all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients!
In regards to their vegan and non-dairy flavours, they utilize water, rice milk, oat milk, cashew milk, almond milk and coconut milk as their bases to produce a variety of delicious vegan flavour profiles.
The pistachio flavour is next-level amazing – it’s got loads of real pistachio bits to give you the most delicious and authentic experience possible!
Business Information:
Address: 6 Charles St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1T2
Website: nanisgelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"What an amazing blend of flavours! I tried mango lassi, Belgian cookie, dark chocolate chip, pistachio, walnut & absolutely loved all flavours. Can’t wait for you guys to open another location in Mississauga! The staff is extremely polite and helpful with choosing flavours. Excellent service and delicious"
- M A
"The flavours are INSANE! We tried the mint Oreo, milk chocolate Nutella, and espresso chip - and they knocked these flavours out of the park! Definitely our new favourite ice cream place! Bonus, the owner is super nice… definitely go support this local gem!"
- Michael Di Paolo
10. Bar Ape Gelato
At Bar Ape Gelato, you’ll find a small traditional gelato outlet only open from May to October that has some outdoor benches and a serving window. They offer a full summer experience of flavours – every week is different!
While they may not be your average gelato parlour, they never lose sight of what’s most important: obtaining the best possible ingredients and keeping things simple. It’s always fun to discover their new adventurous flavours such as Niagara grapes, saffron, goat milk, Ontario berries and more!
With many more flavours to try, be sure to check them out whenever you’re in the mood for something different!
Business Information:
Address: 283 Rushton Rd, Toronto, ON M6C 2X6
Website: bar-ape.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"Pre-ordered the chai tea cornetti gelato in a box of 4. They were smaller than expected, but the gelato was amazing, super creamy and the chai flavour came out very nicely. It was also coated in white chocolate. The cone had the perfect amount of crunch."
- Rachel Ko
"I’ve had gelato / ice cream all over the world and I think this is my favourite!!! I love that the flavours rotate seasonally. You can really taste the quality and the freshness. It might be a bit more expensive than your average ice cream shop but I think it’s worth it."
- Melissa Mark
11. La Paloma Gelateria & Cafe
At La Paloma, you’ll be able to explore hundreds of flavour combinations on your own or with friends and family. Thanks to the consistent quality of our products, you’ll always leave satisfied.
Choose from dozens of delicious gelatos prepared with authentic traditional methods. Sample a few of their unique flavours or revisit your old favourites and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at one of their cafés.
Some popular flavours include Coconut & Ferrero Rocher and Strawberry Cheesecake.
You can also pair your gelato with a cup of fresh-brewed coffee or any of their premium espresso drinks, each providing complex characteristics that will tantalize all palettes.
Business Information:
Address: 200 Windflower Gate, Woodbridge, ON L4L 0A1
Phone: (905) 851-5151
Website: lapaloma.ca
Customer Review Highlight:
"im only speaking for La Paloma's gelato, which is probably one of the best in town in my perspective. I have only been to La Paloma a couple of times, but each time the quality and taste are the same if not the best."
- Nicholas S
"It is on the more expensive side but it is by far the best Gelato you can find! Been to many Galaterias but this one is by far my favourite with the best quality x taste! WOULD RECCOMEND! "
- Michael
12. Lola's Gelato
Lola’s Gelato is the perfect place for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee and some delicious gelato. With an upbeat atmosphere and a large selection of flavours, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.
Whether you want something classic or creative, Lola’s has got you covered – plus, their gelato tastes like paradise in a little paper cup! Some of the go-to flavours include the Lemon Sorbet and Sassy Sea Turtle!
So if you’re looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy some sweet treats with friends, then look no further than Lola’s Gelato!
Business Information:
Address: 14B Brookers Ln, Etobicoke, ON M8V 0A5
Phone: (416) 351-8148
Website: lolasgelato.com
Customer Review Highlight:
"In my experience there are very few places who know how to make a good mocha and this is one of them. Located near the Lake, it's the perfect spot to get your coffee before hitting the trail. I had my mocha in oat milk and was happy to see their collection of vegan gelato and sorbets. Will be back to try them! Wish they'll make some cookies vegan too."
- Akanksha Chopra
"So good fresh. Great flavours. Love the banana gelato! Almost didn’t know this was on Marine Parade but glad we found you. Would recommend you put some sort of A-frame signs or blade signs to get more visibility and awareness out to people visiting the lake "
- KZ
FAQs About Gelato
It’s all in the ingredients! Gelato typically uses less milk fat than ice cream, so it has a much richer and denser flavour. It also contains less air, making for a smoother mouthfeel. Not only that but it tends to be served at a slightly warmer temperature than traditional ice creams which gives it a creamier consistency.
In terms of fat content, gelato is slightly lower in calories and fat than traditional ice creams. However, both have less saturated fats compared to other types of desserts such as cakes and pastries. This means that the best way to stay healthy is to eat it in moderation!
Gelato isn’t necessarily vegan, but many places will make you one if requested. As long as there are not any animal-based ingredients (such as milk) in the base, it can be made vegan.
The best way to enjoy your gelato is by pairing it with a smooth cup of coffee. Your typical hot chocolate may do just fine, but the bitterness of the espresso will enhance the flavour profile of your dish and give you that extra “oomph” you’re looking for!
Conclusion
Toronto is home to some of the best gelato shops in North America. From classic flavours like pistachio and hazelnut to more inventive options like honey lavender and Earl Gray tea, there’s something for everyone at these tasty establishments.
So if you’re looking for a delicious treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to check out one of the 12 best gelato places in Toronto!
For more ideas of where to visit next in Toronto for delicious treats, check out the following articles:
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