TL; DR | Summary
Be prepared to lift your gelato standards permanently, as Mapo Gelato is known for its incredibly smooth gelato. With expertise in classic and innovative combinations, there's no shortage of flavours. Their caramello (pepe saya sea salt caramel) and mango flavours are must-tries, but the true joy comes from exploring their unique fruit-based gelato. You're bound to find new and unheard-of flavours to try with their daily menu changes and experimentations.
Mapo Gelato Review
@bestspots.com.au Be Prepared to Lift Your Gelato Standards Permanently ⬇️ As Mapo Gelato is known for its incredibly smooth gelato 😋. With expertise in classic and innovative combinations, there's no shortage of flavours 🙌 Their caramello (pepe saya sea salt caramel) and mango flavours are must-tries 💯 , but the true joy comes from exploring their unique fruit-based gelato 🍓. You're bound to find new and unheard-of flavours to try with their daily menu changes and experimentations 😌 🔥 RECOMMENDED 🔥 - Definitely try the caramello and cioccolato 🍫 for a classic gelato experience - Don't miss out on the mango 🥭, watermelon 🍉 and honeydew for a fruity refreshment - Try a new flavour. I've had fig, avocado, and grapefruit gelato, to name a few intriguing ones 🤪 - Bring a thermal bag if you're planning to take tubs home - you won't regret it 😁😁 #mapogelato #gelateria #newtowneats #dessertsydney #gelatolovers ♬ Pour You Love - Ariyan Chowdhury
Stepping into Mapo Gelato is like crossing into a world of endless possibilities. With its proximity to public transport, this gelato shop is in a prime spot within Newtown's foodie hotspot. The place might seem small initially, but its extensive menu ranges from the comfortingly familiar to the mind-boggling unexpected. The main culprits are the watermelon, mango, kinako, and caramello flavours that keep me returning to this spot as often as possible.
And ever since I've tried their gelato, it has set the standard for what I consider first-rate gelato. Few places have come close to this high bar, further solidifying in my mind that Mapo is the top gelato spot in all of Sydney.
With its minimal seating, Mapo Gelato's cosy setting is best for enjoying your gelato to go. My tradition that I've done for years is to wrap up any food outing in the area with a stop at Mapo, often leaving with a tub (or three).
Mapo prides itself for being "natural" and don't use any artificial additives or colours. The fruity flavours, such as strawberry, honeydew, and watermelon, faithfully replicate their real fruit counterparts to the point where you can see visible bits of the fruit. For me, this authenticity is what sets Mapo Gelato apart from other gelaterias.
But it's not just fruity flavours that are enticing. There's a range of flavours, from coffee and chocolate-based delights to those infused with Japanese and Italian ingredients. While this means that a new experience awaits at each visit, I warn that many experimental flavours may fall short, hence why I give this place a 9.5 out of 10.
But, a hot foodie tip from me: follow their Instagram for the day's menu before heading over. This way, you're always in the loop on their latest creations and know what kind of gelato you are getting into.
Mapo Gelato Menu: 5 star flavours & service
As this gelato shop is primarily a takeaway spot due to limited seating, be prepared to enjoy your gelato on the go. On the plus side, the service at Mapo Gelato is swift and friendly with staff as passionate about their gelato as I am about eating it. They're always ready to offer suggestions or let you sample any flavour (which led to my comprehensive taste tour of their entire menu). Fearless sampling is fantastic when faced with the difficult decision of choosing what to order, especially when discovering that you can make a gelato flavour of unexpected ingredients.
Mango
When I first visited Mapo, this flavour won me over. It's like a burst of tropical sunshine in your mouth. Being fresh, sweet, and slightly tangy, it takes me to the joys of summer at any time of the year.
Matcha
For matcha enthusiasts, this gelato offers the authentic taste of this beloved green tea. It has more of a roasted hit, with a slight bitterness characteristic of high-quality matcha. While it may not cater to all taste buds, it's a must-try for anyone who appreciates the depth and complexity of matcha.
Caramello (Pepe Saya Sea Salt Caramel)
This salted caramel is Mapo's original masterpiece of sweet and salty. It's a creamy, dreamy gelato that is addictive! Expect this OG flavour to linger on your palate, urging you to return for just one more scoop.
Cioccolato (Bolivian Chocolate)
Rich and deeply satisfying for chocolate lovers, the cioccolato is a safe choice for those afraid of venturing into the unknown. It's a daring hit of chocolate, and I guarantee it will leave a smile on your face.
Kinako (Soybean)
The kinako gelato is a revelation for those who adore soybeans' nutty, roasted flavours. Its subtle sweetness and unique grainy taste profile make it a standout choice. If you're a fan of Japanese-inspired desserts, this flavour will be a delightful surprise that's both comforting and exotic.
Pistachio
Pistachio is a consistent favourite at high-end gelato stores and Mapo maintains that standard. It nails the perfect mix of that nutty pistachio flavour with the signature creamy texture. It's smooth, satisfying, and just hits the spot every time. If you love a good nutty taste and crave something creamy, this one's a must-try.
Watermelon
This flavour is an absolute winner, capturing the essence of fresh, juicy watermelon. It's incredibly refreshing, with a balanced sweetness. The watermelon gelato is, without a doubt, a crowd-pleaser and my top pick for a fruity, refreshing dessert. I secretly look out for this flavour, often making a dedicated trip to indulge in this gelato.
Honeydew
While I'm not the biggest fan of this particular Asian fruit, I must concede that the honeydew gelato is an exception to my views. It's refreshingly light, hits the sweet spot just right, and accurately sums up honeydew's essence. This gelato is an absolute delight, with its natural, sweet flavour staying authentic to its counterpart.
Frappe Milkshake
At $11 per serving, the milkshake frappes aren't great value. Unless you've got a specific craving for a milkshake, I'd steer away.
RECOMMENDED
- Definitely try the caramello and cioccolato for a classic gelato experience
- Don't miss out on the mango, watermelon and honeydew for a fruity refreshment
- Check their Instagram for daily flavours before visiting
- Try a new flavour. I've had fig, avocado, and grapefruit gelato, to name a few intriguing ones
- Bring a thermal bag if you're planning to take tubs home - you won't regret it
Final Words
Mapo Gelato in Newtown is an integral part of the community that brings joy to everyone who visits. Whether you're making a rare visit or happen to be passing through, make sure to stop by and treat yourself to some of the best gelato Sydney has to offer. With its ever-evolving selection of daily flavours paired with unwavering quality, Mapo is a place I always recommend for praiseworthy gelato. Stay tuned for more restaurant tales from this commendable corner of the Inner West.
Where to find Mapo Gelato
Address
Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Website
Phone
+61 2 8937 4919
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Caramello (Pepe Saya Sea Salt Caramel) is my go-to order whenever l go to Mapo in Newtown!
I can see why! It’s a good first introduction flavour to Mapo