Summer is perfect for enjoying ice cream, whether it’s a cone on a hot day or a double scoop in the evening. Ottawa has many great ice cream spots offering everything from gourmet flavours to classic soft serve. Here are some of the best places to get your ice cream fix in Ottawa.
1. Moo Shu Ice Cream
Moo Shu Ice Cream is known for its unique flavours and delicious bubble waffle cones. They use local Ontario dairy and ingredients from Ottawa. Try flavours like ginger vanilla bean, mint lime, black sesame, or local strawberry. They also offer vegan options like Algona coffee and classic chocolate. Don’t miss their seasonal treats like ice cream tacos and sandwiches.
2. Stella Luna
Stella Luna is famous for its Italian gelato. Founded by Tammy Giuliani, who trained in Italy, this shop has been serving artisanal gelato since 2011. With four locations around Ottawa, you can enjoy flavours like maple walnut, pineapple yuzu cardamom, and Turkish chocolate. They also have fruit smoothies, speciality coffees, milkshakes, and baked goods.
3. The Merry Dairy
The Merry Dairy started as a food truck in 2012 and now has a popular shop in Hintonburg. They offer small-batch ice cream and frozen custard with flavours like cherry chip and salted caramel. Seasonal flavours include pumpkin cheesecake and roasted rhubarb. Try their colourful cones and enjoy ice cream floats, sandwiches, or fresh fruit popsicles.
4. Farinella
Farinella, located in Ottawa’s Little Italy, offers authentic Italian gelato made by Cesare and Nina, who trained in Italy. Popular flavors include hazelnut, pistachio, and crème brûlée. They also serve granitas, Italian pastries, and meter-long pizzas. Stop by for gelato and take a stroll by Dow’s Lake.
5. La Cigale
La Cigale is a charming ice cream shop in Old Chelsea, just north of Ottawa. Known for its over 70 rotating flavours, it offers options like key lime pie and chocolate Guinness. Enjoy classic treats like banana splits or try their epic sundae creations. It’s a great spot to visit after a day in Gatineau Park.
6. Beachconers
Beachconers is a micro-creamery located near Britannia Beach. They serve creative flavours like chocolate marmalade and cold brew coffee. Seasonal specialities include rhubarb crumble and maple olive oil. They also offer vegan options and dairy-free popsicles.
7. Mantovani 1946
Mantovani 1946, located in ByWard Market, is known for its luxurious gelato made with ingredients from Italy. Flavours include pistachio, hazelnut, and their award-winning Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. They also serve Italian pastries and Neapolitan coffee. Try their gelato with espresso for a special treat.
8. Carp Custom Creamery
About 30 minutes west of Ottawa in Carp, Carp Custom Creamery offers handmade ice cream made with local ingredients. They have over 16 flavours, including sticky toffee pudding and double chocolate brownies. They also offer soft-serve swirls, milkshakes, and ice cream tacos. Don’t forget to grab a doggy cone for your pet!
9. Roll’d Up Dessert Lounge
Roll’d Up Dessert Lounge, located at Lansdowne Place, specializes in rolled ice cream. This technique involves mixing ice cream with toppings on a frozen slab and rolling it into delicious curls. Choose from their pre-made flavours or create your own with fresh fruit, Oreos, and more.
10. Marble Slab Creamery
Marble Slab Creamery lets you create your own ice cream with a variety of bases and mix-ins. They mix your custom creation on a frozen slab and offer options like gummy bears, fresh fruit, and Reese’s pieces. They also have classic sundaes and ice cream cakes.
11. Lois ‘N’ Frima’s
Lois ‘N’ Frima’s, a staple in ByWard Market since 1984, offers classic ice cream flavours and soft serve. Their soft serve can be dipped in rich chocolate. They also have kid-friendly food like hot dogs and milkshakes.
No matter where you go, these ice cream spots in Ottawa offer delicious treats to cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy exploring these top places and savouring their unique flavours.
