Gourmet desserts have taken Toronto by storm over the course of the past few years, so it is no surprise that the city is packed with amazing ice cream options. Dutch Dreams was way ahead of the game and has been a staple in Toronto for over 30 years. They’re famous in the neighbourhood for their wide selection of flavours, crazy cones and treats imported specially from Holland. They have over 60 flavours, and fresh waffle cones made daily, which give off a scent that can be smelled all the way down the street from their shop. Located at 36 Vaughan Rd., just south of St. Clair.
Vaughan is known for its assortment of incredible authentic gelato shops. Amongst the best is La Paloma. Since they first began in 1967, La Paloma has provided the GTA with superior Italian gelato options with locations in Toronto and Woodbridge. They have dozens of delicious gelato flavours that they prepare using authentic, traditional methods. The laid-back atmosphere in their Vaughan location, located at Piazza Del Sole at 200 Windflower Gate, makes it the perfect place to sit back, relax and catch up with old friends over a perfectly brewed premium espresso and a cup of your favourite gelato. Paddled the way gelato was meant to be served!
There’s something about a walk through the park with an ice cream cone that can make a moment feel like the perfect summer day. Ice Cream Cafe, located at 23 Main Street South in Brampton, makes that a reality. Situated in Brampton’s historical downtown area, this lovely little shop is only steps away from Gage Park and the Brampton Farmer’s Market that takes place every Saturday morning in the summer. Choose from 24 ice cream flavours available and wander about. The Brampton Farmer’s Market takes place every Saturday morning in the summer, just outside the doors of Ice Cream Cafe.
Marylebone Café and Creamery is serious about providing their customers with food made from real ingredients. This lovely parlour offers ice cream and gelato made from 100% Canadian macarons and other baked treats. Located at 216 Oak Park Blvd. in Oakville, the goal for the shop is to be a hang-out spot or gathering place for the people of Oakville. Stop by and have a laugh with their baristas!
If you’re looking for pure indulgence, look no further than Crepe Star Dessert Café and Bistro, located at 18275 Yonge St. in East Gwillimbury. They offer sweet and savory crepes and waffles, coffee, tea, iced coffee and tea drinks, bubble tea and different varieties of Kawartha ice cream and La Rocca cakes. With all the options on their menu, Crepe Star is the perfect place to drop by to catch up with friends while you enjoy some seriously sweet treats.
This last spot on our list is a special one! Bliss Kitchen, located at 312 Dundas Street East in Waterdown is a vegan restaurant that encourages their customers to eat mindfully and live blissfully. On their menu, they offer plant-based ice cream treats, including an incredible vegan milkshake. For anyone who follows a vegan diet or wants to give vegan ice cream a try, Bliss Kitchen is the perfect destination to try it.
The GTA is a diverse area with a vast selection of ice cream and gelato shops. Whether you’re looking for sorbets, gelato, crazy milkshakes, vegan ice cream or just a simple scoop, you’re guaranteed to find something amazing within these incredible communities.