The Best Ice Cream Shops in Melbourne

Ice cream and gelato is a hands-down, get-out-of-town favourite treat for many of us. Whether you're after something sweet after a dinner out or a Saturday afternoon pick-me-up with the kids in tow, ice cream (and we use the term to encompass gelato here, too), in our book, is always a good idea. 

Luckily, the foodie haven of Melbourne is brimming with excellent ice cream outlets—and some of them are lifting the bar in ways we never thought possible. Here are the best ice cream shops in Melbourne, promising ice-cold deliciousness each and every time. 

The Best Ice Cream Shops in Melbourne

1. Jock’s Ice Cream and Sorbet

Undoubtedly one of the best ice cream shops in Melbourne, Jock's Ice Cream and Sorbet is a popular pick among locals and visitors alike.

This ripper of a store, situated in glorious Albert Park, actually came about as a result of one man’s misfortune. When a road accident forced Jock Main to spend a great deal of time at home recuperating, he decided to don his creative cap and whip out his ice cream machine to come up with new and improved ice cream sensations. In 2001, Jock’s Ice Cream and Sorbet was born, and it has been there ever since, scooping up heaven for Melbourne’s multitudinous ice cream fanatics.

As far as flavours go, there are around 80 to choose from, so you're sure to find one or two (or three, or four...) you love!

Location: 83 Victoria Ave, Albert Park

2. Gelato Messina

Sydney was the first Aussie city to welcome Gelato Messina and Melburnians turned green with envy. But – thank goodness – Melbourne didn’t have to wait too long, and it's quickly become one of the best ice cream shops in Melbourne.

Chemicals, colours and other nasties are not even allowed through the door at this place. There is a tonne of fresh flavours to choose from at Gelato Messina each and every day, ensuring there's something for every palate. The fruity flavours are particularly sublime  – there’s a Raspberry that will knock your socks off and a Coconut & Lychee that is pure bliss.

Location: multiple stores throughout Melbourne, visit Gelato Messina Stores for details.

3. 7 Apples Gelato

Nestled among the hubbub of busy St Kilda is a little slice of heaven serving up artisan gelato for all to enjoy. 7 Apples is located on Acland Street, just around the bend from iconic Luna Park.

7 Apples is an award-winning gelateria, with unique flavours like Fig Pudding, Croccangelo, and Turkish Delight all picking up gold awards along the way.

If you do find yourself around St Kilda with the kids, do yourself a flavour and pop in here for a scoop – or three!

Locations:
St Kilda: 75 Acland Street
Melbourne City: Emporium Melbourne, Chadstone Shopping Centre

4. Piccolina Gelateria

On this busy Hawthorn strip, you’ll find a much-loved establishment that serves up some serious treats for taste buds. In fact, Piccolina Gelateria has become renowned within Melbourne as being one of the best around when it comes to genuine Italian gelato.

It’s all made in-house with 100 per ent honest ingredients – no preservatives here, folks! These guys even roast their own nuts on-site to add to the gelato – that’s a lot of nuts. Which reminds us, you simply must try the pistachio.

They also serve up Ferrero Rocher cakes. Don’t think, just go!

Location: Multiple throughout Melbourne, see Piccolina Gelateria locations for details.

5. Billy Van Creamy

At Billy Van Creamy it’s organic all the way. These guys have no time for synthetic ingredients and nasties – only pure goodness is allowed.

Founded by two brothers with a passion for quality food, Billy Van Creamy serves up both ice cream and seasonal sorbets, and trust us when we say that there is an abundance of yumminess happening here.

You and the kids can get your tastebuds on some at their permanent store on Fitzroy St or at the roving truck that pops up all over Melbourne!

Location: 212 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North

6. Pidapipó Gelateria 

Pidapipó boasts three locations across the city and is renowned for its authentic Italian flavours, making it one of the best ice cream shops in Melbourne.

If you're on a mission to find the best Italian ice cream in Melbourne, you must add Pidapipó to your must-try list.

Location: Multiple throughout Melbourne, see Pidapipó Locations for details.

7. Luther's Scoops

Celebrating local ingredients sourced directly from farmers, Luther's Scoops is a Brunswick staple and offers some of the finest ice cream in Melbourne.

With a diverse range of delicious flavours, it's the ideal dessert option. And if someone in your group isn't in the mood for ice cream, fear not! Luther's also serves mouth-watering cookies.

Location: 528A Sydney Road, Brunswick

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