Forget about fro-yo. Part ways with popsicles. When the summer’s hot only one frozen treat will give you what you need: We’re talking about good, old-fashioned ice cream. Here, Toronto’s best ice cream parlours.
Ed’s Real Scoop
Authenticity rules here. To wit: Ed’s chocolate peanut butter fudge ice cream combines his mom’s fudge with made-from-scratch ice cream. Mercury espresso uses the Leslieville coffee shop’s beans. Enjoy one of 100-plus homemade varieties on a waffle cone – house made, of course. 2224 Queen St. E. and 910 Queen St. E.
La Paloma
Nothing says summer on Corso Italia like a lineup at La Paloma. This old-school gelateria – around since 1967 – offers up to 50 flavours, including classics like limone, zabajone, and torrone. Gioa mia (white chocolate truffle and hazelnuts) and fico (sweet figs) are not to be missed. 1357 St. Clair Ave. W.
Xococava
At this chocolate shop, the vision of DailyXY contributor Chris McDonald, irresistible Latin flavours are woven into decadent ice creams. Think prune & Pedro Ximenez, black licorice with caramel, espresso, and of course, dark chocolate sorbet. 1560 Yonge St.
Greg’s Ice Cream
Creative flavours rule at this Annex institution. Roasted marshmallow is a revelation – starting on the palate as sweet vanilla, then a lingering smokiness. Star anise and malt ball crunch are also worth the wait. 750 Spadina Ave.
Il Gelatiere
The draw at this Roman-owned neighbourhood spot is authentic, smooth gelato geared to please the sophisticated palate. Highlights include spicy chocolate pepperoncino, maria (cinnamon with nuts) and pumpkin. 647 Mount Pleasant Ave.
Image courtesy of stevendepolo.
Don’t forget to add Delight (Junction and now Queen West).
Local strawberry, Quebec blue cheese, non-dairy chocolate (they use coconut milk!), seasonal fruit flavours. And cab franc and dark cherry. Amazing.
http://www.delightchocolate.ca/
The ice cream is there all seasons. Don’t forget to try the chocolates.Bottom line, I’m sure as hell happy I can walk there in two minutes.
You should check out Hotel Gelato at 532 Eglinton Ave West (2 blocks west of Avenue Road). Really DELICIOUS gelato… flavours always changing! Beautiful decor… this place should be on your list of the best in the city!