Best Gelato And Ice Cream In Sydney: Find Gelato Near Me

Food Recommendations: Top Gelato Shops In Sydney

By Lisa Nguyen   |   Published 12 July 2024

When it comes to beating the Sydney heat, nothing does the job quite like a scoop of delicious gelato. Fans of both classic flavours and unique combinations will find something to love in Sydney's diverse gelato range.

From authentic Asian-inspired delights to seasonal creations with a twist, I've scoured the city and beyond to bring you the hit list for gelato spots. And if you’re like me, you’ll agree that gelato isn’t just for summer because it is a year-round treat!

Discover my top five favourite gelato shops in Sydney and brace yourself for a delightful and creamy experience that will have you coming back for more.

If you think I've overlooked a great gelato spot, let me know on my Instagram/TikTok @bestspots.com.au, and I'll be sure to give you credit! 😀

Number 5: Gelato Messina

A scoop of Strawberries and Cream and Hazelnut Passionfruit gelato in a cup

Gelato Messina is a top-tier spot for anyone serious about their gelato.

With over 20 regular flavours and seasonal specials that keep you coming back, it’s easy to see why this place is a favourite.

While you’ll find other Messina locations around Sydney, there’s something special about Parramatta, one of the originals. And if you’re celebrating, their unique gelato cakes are a game-changer.

What makes Messina even more exciting? They’re always experimenting.

Think gelato with a twist — like their Tiramisu with real coffee liqueur.

And for a truly wild experience, try combining 2-3 flavours in their milkshakes and thick shakes. Don’t forget to follow their Instagram for the weekly specials!

Recommendations:

  • Strawberry and Cream
  • Pear and Rhubarb
  • Tiramisu (with real coffee liqueur)
  • Mix flavours in a milkshake or thick shake
  • Buy a tub to take home (bring a thermal bag)

Read my Gelato Messina review

Number 4: Ice Kirin Bar

Experience the soft chewy texture of mochi (daifuku) over a generous scoop of gelato

If you're craving gelato late at night, head to Ice Kirin Bar in Sydney CBD. Open until 10 pm, this place nails authentic Asian flavours without being overly sweet.

Uji matcha, oolong peach tea, and Japanese yuzu sorbet are just a few of their standout options. And here’s a tip: add some daifuku for a soft, chewy texture that’s simply delightful.

Ice Kirin Bar’s commitment to quality is impressive — they even use premium Japanese tea brands. Matcha and tea enthusiasts can also grab tea leaves and bags in-store.

With rotating flavours, every visit promises a new taste in the world of Asian-inspired gelato.

Recommendations:

  • Uji Matcha
  • Peach Oolong
  • Yuzu Sorbet
  • Add daifuku for extra texture
  • Explore rotating flavours with multiple visits

Read my Ice Kirin Bar review

Number 3: Cow & The Moon

Enjoy the perfect pairing of Queenslanda and After Dinner Mint gelato in a convenient takeaway cup, combining two delicious flavours for a delightful indulgence

In Newtown, Cow & The Moon is well known for unique gelato flavours and tasty baked goods. The relaxed atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating, makes it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a treat.

Their flavours, like Queenslanda (mango and macadamia) and Pannacotta Strawberry and Balsamic, show off their knack for creativity and quality.

As you can see from my photos, you will be overwhelmed by the number of flavours. From the classic to the creative, every flavour is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

A must-visit for gelato lovers, you can enjoy two flavours for the price of one serving.

Recommendations:

  • Queenslanda (mango and macadamia)
  • Pannacotta Strawberry and Balsamic
  • After Dinner Mint

Read my Cow & The Moon review

Number 2: Anita Gelato

Dip into a colourful selection of gelato swirls including coconut, raspberry, passionfruit, watermelon & fresh mint, and more

Just outside Central Park Mall, Anita Gelato is a gelato lover's dream.

With a vast selection of traditional and unique flavours, this place literally has something for everyone. The spacious seating area and quick service make it perfect for a quick gelato fix. Plus, their seasonal flavour rotation keeps things exciting.

Open until 11 pm or midnight, Anita Gelato is the spot for late-night dessert cravings. Their frozen yogurt, with an impressive range of toppings, is also a must-try.

Recommendations:

  • Dragonfruit
  • Black Forest
  • Milk Chocolate Pretzel
  • Mascarpone Ricotta & Strawberry
  • Watermelon & Fresh Mint
  • Sample multiple flavours to find your favourites

Read my Anita Gelato review

The Best Gelato Shop In Sydney: Mapo Gelato Newtown

Rich pistachio and nutty kinako soybean gelato scoops come together on a crispy waffle cone

You haven't tasted real gelato until you visit Mapo Gelato!

Known for its incredibly smooth texture and innovative flavours, this place is a must-visit. They focus on natural ingredients without any artificial additives or colours, making every scoop a pure delight.

Mapo's fruity flavours, like strawberry, honeydew, and watermelon, are so authentic you’ll find bits of real fruit in every bite.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, try their fig, avocado, or grapefruit gelato.

Follow their Instagram for daily flavour updates, and bring a thermal bag if you plan to take tubs home. You won’t regret it.

Recommendations:

  • Caramello (Pepe Saya Sea Salt Caramel)
  • Cioccolato for a classic experience
  • Mango, Watermelon, and Honeydew for fruity refreshment
  • Try unique flavours like fig, avocado, or grapefruit
  • Bring a thermal bag for taking tubs home

Read my Mapo Gelato review

There you have it, my top gelato shop recommendations around Sydney. So, the next time your out and about, treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of the best gelato in Sydney.

Want more food recommendations? People who like gelato also liked my Bingsu recommendations.

Don't forget to check out my foodie facts to learn more about gelato:

Lisa Nguyen, the brains behind bestspots.com.au, is a distinguished food blogger endorsed by AGFG. Lisa has become the go-to food blogger for discovering the top-rated restaurants in Sydney. Her blog is all about keeping it real with her reviews. She doesn’t get swayed by fancy ads of what’s popular; she just tells it like it is. Because of this, she’s checked out over 300 restaurants and isn’t stopping there. She wants Best Spots to be the #1 place for finding amazing food in Australia and maybe even beyond someday.

But Lisa’s not just about fancy dinners. She’s on a mission to uncover all the fun and hidden spots around Sydney too. So, if you’re looking for the best places to eat and have a good time in Sydney, bestspots.com.au is the place to start.