In sweltering Singapore, where the heat feels ever-present and unrelenting, few pleasures rival the simple joy of a cold, creamy scoop of gelato. It’s the kind of indulgence that feels instantly soothing—cooling your skin, lifting your mood, and giving you a moment to slow down amidst the rush of daily life. Whether it’s a mid-day escape, a post-dinner ritual, or an excuse for a girls’ night out, gelato has a way of making even the hottest days feel a little more bearable.

For the uninitiated, gelato differs from ice cream in more ways than one. It’s lower in milk fat, churned more slowly, and served at a slightly warmer temperature, resulting in a texture that’s luxuriously smooth, dense, and velvety on the tongue. More importantly, it allows flavours to shine with greater intensity—perfect for women who appreciate depth, balance, and quality in every bite. Crafting gelato is truly an art form, and the best gelato in Singapore has moved far beyond the basics.

Scattered across the island are chic creameries and minimalist dessert parlours that don’t just perfect classic flavours, but also push boundaries with creative, thoughtfully curated combinations you won’t find anywhere else. Read on as we round up eight gelato shops in Singapore every woman should have on her radar when the heat calls for something sweet, soothing, and utterly satisfying.

Note: This list is strictly not in order.

1. Freshio Gelato

Freshio Gelato shop Singapore
Image Credit: Freshio Gelato

Freshio Gelato feels like that effortlessly cheerful friend who always knows how to brighten your day. Open six days a week, this cosy spot has built a loyal following thanks to its generous sampling policy, warm service, and unapologetically indulgent flavours. The moment you step in, you’re encouraged to try before you commit, making the entire experience feel personal and pressure-free.

Their Pancake flavour is playful and nostalgic, capturing the sweetness of maple syrup-drenched hotcakes without feeling artificial. French Vanilla, on the other hand, is elegant and grown-up, with real vanilla bean notes that linger softly on the palate. Chocolate lovers will find comfort in their Bourbon Dark Chocolate, which is rich without being overpowering. Beyond scoops, Freshio’s waffles offer a fluffy interior with lightly crisp edges, creating the perfect hot-and-cold contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, their gelato paninis—pressed brioche with molten-cold centres—are pure indulgence.

The brightly lit space, complete with adorable astronaut decor, adds a whimsical touch that makes this an ideal spot for intimate catch-ups. Just be mindful of peak hours, as seating is limited.

Prices:

  • Sicilian Pistachio: $6.80
  • Pancake: $5
  • Bourbon Dark Chocolate: $6.80
  • Green Apple Sorbetto:  $5
  • French Vanilla: $4.50
  • Banana Walnut: $5.50

Highlights:

  • Extremely generous sampling policy
  • Unique gelato paninis with brioche
  • Bright, relaxed ambience perfect for casual meet-ups

Customer Reviews:

Mabel Yet
this was such a cozy find on a rainy afternoon!! uncle KT was so nice and friendly and gave us so many samples of ice cream to try, we got pistachio and cheesecake and both were really smooth and yummy! the croffle was warm and buttery as well and paired rlly well with the ice cream 😁 will definitely come back again 🤓

Sylvia Surjantoro
Our favorite place for a gelato date! 🍦💞 Freshio Gelato never disappoints — so many flavors to choose from, but we always fall in love with their Bourbon Dark Chocolate. Rich, smooth, and absolutely addictive! The Green Apple Sorbetto is another must-try — so refreshing and zesty, it feels like a burst of freshness in your mouth. Keep healthy, Auntie & Uncle! We love you and everything you’ve built in Freshio 💚

Randy Valencia
I’m a sucker for good customer service but having good products to go with that is much better. That is what they have in Freshio Gelato. Love the gelato with black coffee here. The shop is ran by a lovely couple. If they ask if they can make a recommendation, say YES! You will be treated with a generous spoonful of gelato to taste

Website:https://www.freshiogelato.com/
Contact:6970 0358
Location:91 Bencoolen St, #01-60 Sunshine Plaza, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours:Thursday-Tuesday: 12 PM – 10 PM | Closed on Wednesdays

2. Burnt Cones Gelato

Burnt Cones Best Gelato Singapore
Image Credit: Burnt Cones Gelato

Burnt Cones is where a little edge meets classic comfort. Known for their signature slightly charred cones and smoky waffles, this homegrown brand has evolved from a neighbourhood favourite into a multi-location darling. Everything here feels thoughtfully crafted, from the daily-churned gelato to the subtle bitterness that balances out sweetness beautifully.

Their Earl Grey gelato is a standout for women who enjoy complex flavours as it carries a bold bergamot fragrance with a gentle herbal finish that cuts through the creaminess. The Ube gelato, made using Philippine purple yam, is softly sweet and wonderfully comforting, pairing especially well with waffles without ever becoming cloying. Stracciatella fans will appreciate the careful balance of silky milk gelato and crisp dark chocolate shards, offering texture in every bite.

Overall, Burnt Cones is ideal if you like your desserts grown-up, nuanced, and just a little unexpected. It’s the kind of place you bring a friend who “doesn’t usually like sweet things” and still win them over.

Prices:

  • Chrysanthemum Goji: $22
  • Pistachio: $25
  • Reese’s Peanut Butter: $22
  • Vanilla: $22
  • Strawberry Sorbet: $22
  • Ube: $22

Highlights:

  • Signature charred cones and smoky waffles
  • Well-balanced, less-sweet flavour profiles
  • Daily-churned gelato with creative options

Customer Reviews:

Caryn Ng
Really good coffee and on promotion too, only for $3! But, I got a set w a sandwich so, it’s less by a dollar. It’s brightly lit and filled w ppl chatting so you might want to head elsewhere if you desire quiet, but it was alright for me to just sit here and write as it’s quite chill here.

Viking Nax
What a gem! The moment you walk in, you’re greeted with the sweet aroma of freshly made coffee. I tried the pistachio and crysathemum — both were incredibly creamy and full of flavor. The staff were so cheerful, and they even offered little sample spoons so I could pick the perfect flavor. Definitely my new happy place on a hot day.

TG Chew
Quiet & peaceful spot after dinner that opens late enough on weeknights for a simple dessert. Waffle was made with slight crisp, as requested. Gelato was good as always…

Website:http://www.burntcones.com/
Contact:9721 6705
Location:Multiple outlets island-wide
Opening Hours:Differs depending on outlet

3. Yeah Gelato

Yeah Gelato Shop Singapore
Image Credit: Yeah Gelato

If aesthetics matter just as much as flavour, Yeah Gelato will speak directly to your soul. Originating from Beijing and boasting over 168 outlets across China, this viral gelato brand is known for its dramatic tall peaks and luxe presentation. Each scoop feels almost sculptural—perfect for those who believe dessert should be photographed before it’s eaten.

Their Pistachio flavour is the star of the show, finished with a golden dusting and packed with crushed nuts for added richness and bite. It’s earthy, nutty, and indulgent without being overwhelming. Premium Rice, another highlight, delivers a subtle roasted aroma with chewy rice bits that elevate the texture. Beyond the premium selections, the shop rotates up to 22 Classic flavours daily, all stored in traditional Italian pozzetti tubs to preserve freshness.

This is a fantastic stop if you’re exploring modern gelato in Singapore and want something that feels both luxurious and Instagram-ready, without compromising on taste.

Prices:

  • Gold Flavor: $9.80
  • Classic Flavor: $7.80
  • Double Flavor: $10.80
  • Family Pack: $36.80

Highlights:

  • Iconic tall-peak presentation
  • Rich pistachio with real nut texture
  • Wide rotation of classic flavours

Customer Reviews:

Posh Pearl
Back again and this time we tried more flavors, zesty kiwi, classic vanilla, aromatic black tea and of course my favourite pistachio! Wow the nutty aroma and creaminess won me over! It’s indulgent without being too rich or sweet. It was just nice for me! Super delicious! Will definitely be back again!

Charmaine Ng
Absolutely outstanding experience. The staff here go above and beyond, and the service is nothing short of exceptional. A tall young man named Jayden stood out in particular—his skill in shaping gelato is genuinely impressive, clearly showing deep experience and craftsmanship in his work. He is the kind of employee any business would be lucky to have. Frankly, Jayden’s work ethic and expertise are so impressive that he deserves a pay raise. This shop, thanks to both its quality and its remarkable team, is truly a hidden gem. I’ll definitely be returning, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Stephanie Fua
The flavour of the Pistachio is really amazing, it’s of premium quality and no doubt made using finest ingredients. They lived up the claim that each serving contains around 29 kernels of pistachios because you really get the authentic taste and each bite had bits of pistachios that elevate the texture of the gelato too. The best thing about it is they sprinkle more pistachios on top. Must try!

Website:http://www.yegelato.com/
Contact:8068 9505
Location:68 Orchard Rd, #01-K1, Singapore 238839
Opening Hours:Sunday-Thursday: 10 AM – 10 PM | Friday-Saturday: 10 AM – 10:30 PM

4. VENCHI

Venchi Best Gelato Singapore
Image Credit: Venchi

Looking for gelato in Singapore that is elegance personified? VENCHI is your answer. While globally celebrated for its chocolates, its gelato quietly steals hearts with old-world Italian craftsmanship and refined flavours. Every batch is freshly made using natural ingredients, premium dairy, IGP-certified Piedmont hazelnuts, and Venchi’s own renowned chocolate blends.

Sampling here feels ceremonial—the gelato is stored in metal containers to maintain freshness, and each scoop is impossibly smooth. Chocolate lovers will gravitate toward options like Stracciatella and Chocoviar 75%, both deep, complex, and satisfying. Yet, the Pistachio and Hazelnut flavours deserve equal praise, crafted with Bronte pistachios and Piedmont hazelnuts for a naturally nutty, aromatic finish.

VENCHI is ideal for women who appreciate timeless luxury and restrained indulgence. It’s not flashy—it’s confident, classic, and utterly satisfying.

Prices:

  • Mini: $11
  • Regular: $12
  • Large: $13
  • Takeaway (500g): $30

Highlights:

  • Authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily
  • Exceptional chocolate-based flavours
  • Premium nuts sourced from Italy

Customer Reviews:

Adeline Wong
The Ice cream here is absolutely delicious, I would definitely recommend. The taste is rich and sweet.

Farrah Allysa
The ice cream at this shop is absolutely delicious. The place has a warm, welcoming vibe, and the staff, especially Liyana, is super friendly and attentive. Highly recommend stopping by for a sweet treat!

Luna Luna
Went to get an ice cream today. The pistachio and hazelnut flavour are very very good 👍!!!!! And the service we received was exceptional too!

Website:https://www.venchi.sg/
Contact:
Location:Multiple outlets island-wide
Opening Hours:Differs depending on outlet

5. Tom’s Palette

Tom's Palette Best Gelato Singapore
Image Credit: Tom’s Palette

Tom’s Palette is a galeto shop that is playful, nostalgic, and wonderfully unpretentious. Before you even enter, the flavour board tempts you with a colourful lineup, while inside, a quirky spin wheel offers help for the chronically indecisive. At $5.80 for a regular cup with two flavours, it’s accessible without feeling basic.

Granny’s Favourite is a must-try—chocolate malt gelato studded with cookie dough and chocolate chips that evokes childhood drinks like Milo and Horlicks. Jamaican Rum & Raisin offers a more grown-up option, featuring raisins steeped in aged rum for a full month. Across the board, textures are smooth and dense, with sweetness kept in check so flavours remain clear and balanced. This is the perfect post-meal treat spot when you want comfort, fun, and a little nostalgia all in one cup.

Prices:

  • Regular Cup: $5.80
  • Large Cup: $10.60
  • Single Cone: $7.20
  • Double Cone: $12
  • Pint: $19
  • Tom’s Palette: $29.80

Highlights:

  • Affordable two-flavour cups
  • Nostalgic, comfort-driven flavours
  • Fun spin wheel for indecisive days

Customer Reviews:

Laila M
Best ice cream spot in Singapore. We’ve been going every time we visit for the last 3 years, without fail. Unique flavours and some classics, you cannot go wrong. Their waffles are perfect, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Hot tip: go during the day for a quieter experience and plenty of seating as evenings are very busy and you will definitely wait for a seat due to popularity. Staff are extremely kind, and you are allowed two samples. They sometimes give you a third on top of your order. I find the regular size more than enough for two flavours as they scoop them hefty! But to each their own.

Rutuparna Kulkarni
It’s a nice cozy place with creative options of dessert. They offer a good variety of ice-cream flavours and the ice-creams are creamy and rich in flavour. The ambience is quite good and have different seating options.

Ruth Yap
Got to choose 2 flavours both were yummy – Pistachio and grandmas apple pie?? Very generous with their portions! They have lots of flavours you are definitely spoilt with choice 🙂 nice date spot

Website:https://www.tomspalette.com.sg/
Contact:
Location:Multiple outlets island-wide
Opening Hours:Differs depending on outlet

6. Birds of Paradise Gelato

Birds of Paradise Gelato Singapore
Image Credit: Birds of Paradise Gelato

Few gelato shops in Singapore feel as serene and intentional as Birds of Paradise. A regular on the Michelin Guide, this beloved brand draws inspiration from nature, infusing gelato with real fruits, flowers, herbs, and spices. The result is flavours that feel refreshing, light, and quietly sophisticated.

White Chrysanthemum with cacao nibs is the signature—it tastes like sipping chilled floral tea, elevated with gentle crunch. Strawberry Basil offers a bright, herbaceous contrast that feels especially cooling on hot days. Even the cones are thoughtfully designed, infused with thyme for an aromatic crunch that complements the gelato rather than overpowering it.

Birds of Paradise is for women who gravitate toward calm, balance, and subtle beauty—where dessert feels almost meditative.

Prices:

  • Lychee Raspberry: $18.50
  • Pistachio: $21.50
  • Midnight Gianduja: $21.50
  • White Chrysanthemum: $18.50
  • Spiced Pear: $18.50

Highlights:

  • Michelin Guide–recommended brand
  • Botanical, nature-inspired flavours
  • Herb-infused cones for added depth

Customer Reviews:

snowbobby
kind and polite staff with fast efficiency, got to try different flavour before ordering too 🙂 Several flavours to choose from and the thyme cone is very flavourful! The choc sorbet I’ve ordered is just nice! It isn’t too heavy/powerful and still have that rich choc taste

Uyen Doan
Such a gem!
I finally got to try Birds of Paradise after hearing so much about it – and it totally lived up to the hype. The flavors are so unique and refreshing (I got the White Chrysanthemum and Lychee Raspberry, and both were amazing). You can really taste how thoughtfully made everything is. The thyme cone is a must-try too – warm, crispy, and adds such a nice herbal touch. The store itself has a clean, calming vibe, and the staff were friendly. Definitely worth the wait, and a must-visit if you’re into artisanal ice cream with a twist! 🍦✨

Wade Wade
This is one of the highest rated ice cream shops in all of Singapore. And now that we’ve visited, I understand why. The commitment to quality at Birds of Paradise is sensational, offering this small but clean store with creative gelatos that are held to impeccable standards. The strawberry gelato with hints of basil is a winner, but all flavors are delicious! This particular store has a 10-person capacity, but there are usually spots available to enjoy your gelato inside away from the Singapore heat. And it’s some of the best you’ll ever eat and even includes dairy-free options.

Website:http://birdsofparadise.sg/
Contact:
Location:Multiple outlets island-wide
Opening Hours:Differs depending on outlet

7. Tofu G Gelato

Tofu G Gelato Shop Singapore
Image Credit: Tofu G Gelato

Minimalist, calm, and quietly impressive, Tofu G takes a refreshingly restrained approach. With just six flavours at any time, the focus is firmly on quality. Inspired by Korean culture, tofu symbolises new beginnings here—transformed into a creamy, delicate gelato base that’s surprisingly luxurious.

The original tofu flavour is a must on your first visit, offering a clean, milky taste that feels nourishing rather than heavy. Black Sesame and Korean Sweet Potato add depth and nuttiness, while Sweet Corn delivers gentle sweetness. Despite its higher price point, each scoop feels intentional and satisfying. The hanok-inspired wooden interiors add to the sense of calm, making this a lovely spot for a slow, mindful dessert break.

Prices:

  • Single Scoop (Any Flavor): $8
  • Soft Serve: $7.50

Highlights:

  • High-protein tofu-based gelato
  • Minimalist Korean-inspired aesthetic
  • Unique yet comforting flavour lineup

Customer Reviews:

Napat Choongphong
They serves the best tofu-based gelato. Their gelato is so creamy, silky and flavorful. For those who doesn’t like tofu, you can still try other flavor than the original tofu. Their other flavor doesn’t have any smell or taste like tofu. But if you love tofu, original flavor will be the best answer for you. It tastes and smells like soy milk. My favorite is Pistachio, Sweet corn and original one. It’s so luscious. Their staff also very friendly. We can try every flavors before order ! I’ll definitely recommend everyone to try this 🙂 (We came back for this shop for 2 days out of our 3 days trip in singapore)

Xiran Lyu
This is a lovely shop with great service! The experience is wonderfully smooth and satisfying from start to finish. They first let you sample all the flavors you want before you proceed to place your final order at the auto machine. It makes the decision-making process fun and easy. I tried the vegan tofu flavor, and it was quite a pleasant surprise—it tasted exactly like natural, high-quality soy milk! I will definitely be visiting again the next time I am in the area.

Alexis C
Tofu G Gelato at Mandarin Gallery nails it — creamy, light, and super photogenic interior. Perfect for beating the Orchard heat without the sugar crash. Was amazed by how rich and satisfying the gelato was, yet made with a wholesome tofu base. The subtle sweetness and clean finish make it perfect for a post-meal treat. Love that they’re offering something unique and plant-based… Friendly staff made the experience even better. My new go-to spot for guilt-free indulgence!

Website:https://www.tofug.sg/
Contact:8970 6493
Location:333A Orchard Rd, #03-30 Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238897
Opening Hours:Open Daily 11 AM – 10 PM

8. Pika Poka Gelato

Pika Poka Gelato Singapore
Image Credit: Pika Poka Gelato

Pika Poka Gelato is a love letter to doing things properly. What started as an online-first gelato brand has blossomed into a cosy Kovan storefront, all built around one philosophy: everything is made from scratch. No pre-made bases, no shortcuts—just fresh ingredients and carefully developed recipes.

You can taste the difference immediately. Vanilla comes flecked with real bean pods, strawberry reveals tiny seeds, and pistachio delivers a natural nuttiness with visible texture. Beyond scoops, Pika Poka shines with its gelato cakes. The Cookies & Cream Gelato Cake is rich and playful, while the Strawberry Princess Gelato Cake is pastel-perfect, delicate, and fragrant—ideal for celebrations or self-gifting moments.

Prices:

  • Mango Pomelo: $22.70
  • Tsuyu Matcha Chocolate: $22.70
  • Signature Dark Chocolate: $22.70
  • Ripe Strawberry: $20.70
  • Speculoos Gelato: $22.70
  • Apple Crumble Gelato Cake: $39.70
  • Tiramisu Gelato Cake: $39.70

Highlights:

  • Fully scratch-made gelato recipes
  • Visible real ingredients in every flavour
  • Beautiful gelato cakes for special occasions

Customer Reviews:

Wanying
Strawberry and Pistachio icecream were delicious, good to beat the heat! Serving is pretty huge too.
Shop staff is very polite and friendly!

Anonymous Lee
Tried 3 flavours and they were all exquisitely made — honey chrysanthemum, chocolate with banana (called monkey business I think) and mango pomelo. It is a gem in this neighbourhood and perfect for a dessert after the free flow mookata just next door

Tantyana Mohamed Rosli
Amazing gelato. Super yummy cause they use natural ingredients. Favourite flavours are snow and honey comb and dark chocolate. The kids love the strawberry ice cream cause it taste excatly like the fruit. They have group buy too. Look out for them!

Website:https://pikapokagelato.com/
Contact:8863 2640
Location:Blk 28 Kelantan Rd, Singapore 200028
Opening Hours:Tuesday-Wednesday, Friday: 4 PM – 11:30 PM | Thursday, Saturday-Sunday: 4 PM – 12 AM | Closed on Mondays

TheGirlCo’s Recommendation

Choosing the right gelato spot depends entirely on your mood and your budget. Here are our top picks for different cravings and personalities.

1. If you love botanical, refined flavours:

Our pick: Birds of Paradise

Birds of Paradise is perfect for women who prefer desserts that feel light, elegant, and thoughtfully composed. With floral and herbaceous notes, it’s ideal if you’re avoiding overly sweet treats and want something refreshing yet memorable. The Michelin recognition only sweetens the deal.

2. If you value indulgence with a warm, personal touch:

Our pick: Freshio Gelato

Freshio Gelato is ideal for women who enjoy dessert as an experience, not just a scoop. The generous sampling policy, friendly owners, and playful flavours make every visit feel welcoming and unhurried. Whether you’re exploring nostalgic flavours like Pancake or going all-in with gelato paninis, this is the spot for relaxed catch-ups where service and sincerity matter just as much as taste.

3. If aesthetics and premium presentation matter to you:

Our pick: Yeah Gelato

Yeah Gelato is perfect for women who believe dessert should look as good as it tastes. Known for its dramatic tall-peak scoops and luxurious pistachio made with real nut texture, every serving feels intentional and indulgent. It’s a great choice for Orchard dates, shopping breaks, or moments when you want a dessert that feels special, photogenic, and unmistakably premium.

4. If you want something lighter, modern, and guilt-free:

Our pick: Tofu G Gelato

Tofu G is for women who enjoy mindful indulgence without sacrificing flavour. The high-protein tofu base creates a creamy yet clean finish that feels nourishing rather than heavy. Paired with its minimalist Korean-inspired space, this is an excellent option for post-meal treats, solo dessert breaks, or days when you want something satisfying but not overly rich.

5. If you’re a true chocolate lover:

Our pick: VENCHI

VENCHI is the ultimate destination for women who believe chocolate should be rich, refined, and uncompromising. With gelato made using Venchi’s own premium chocolate blends, IGP-certified Piedmont hazelnuts, and time-honoured Italian techniques, every scoop feels deeply indulgent yet elegant. From Stracciatella to Chocoviar 75%, this is where chocolate isn’t just a flavour—it’s the star of the experience.

Final Thoughts

Apart from being a good way to cool down, indulging in some gelato is a nice little reward for oneself after a long day, and it can sometimes be the highlight of your day. From botanical blends and Italian classics to tofu-based innovations and fully scratch-made creations, Singapore’s gelato scene offers something for every mood, craving, and kind of woman.

Whether you’re planning a girls’ night, a romantic solo stroll, or simply need a sweet pause from the heat, these eight spots promise indulgence with personality. And if you ever feel like switching things up, why not explore the best bubble tea in Singapore next—because sometimes, cooling down comes in a cup with pearls and a straw.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

While often used interchangeably in Singapore, they are technically different. Gelato has a lower fat content (typically 3.5% to 8%) compared to ice cream, which usually contains at least 10% butterfat.

The most noticeable difference for the consumer is the “overrun” (air content). Gelato is churned much more slowly, incorporating less air, which results in a denser, silkier texture. Finally, gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature (around -13°C) than ice cream (-18°C), allowing the flavours to hit your palate more intensely without numbing your tongue.

In terms of fat, yes. Because gelato uses more milk and less cream, it contains significantly fewer calories from fat. However, it often contains a similar or slightly higher amount of sugar to maintain its soft, scoopable consistency at warmer temperatures.

If you are watching your calorie intake, a fruit-based sorbetto (which is dairy-free) is usually the lightest option available at gelato boutiques.

It isn’t just your imagination—gelato really does struggle in our tropical climate. Because it is served at a warmer starting temperature and contains less air (which acts as an insulator), it absorbs heat from the humid Singapore air much faster than industrial ice cream.

If you are eating it outdoors, a cup is always a safer bet than a cone to avoid a “sticky hand” situation.

Look at the display. Authentic artisanal gelato should not be piled into high, fluffy “mountains.” If it can stand high above the rim of the container without melting, it likely contains stabilisers and emulsifiers to hold its shape. Natural gelato should also have muted, natural colours—for example, pistachio gelato should be a dull brownish-green, not a vibrant neon green.

In Singapore, you’ll frequently see a +$1.00 or +$2.00 surcharge for flavours like Pistachio, Mao Shan Wang, or certain floral infusions. This is because high-quality gelato uses real ingredients rather than flavourings.

Pure pistachio paste (especially from regions like Bronte, Italy) and high-grade durian pulp are incredibly expensive to source, and because gelato is so dense, a large volume of the actual ingredient is required for each batch.

Yes, many gelato shops in Singapore are either halal-certified or Muslim-owned. Even for those without official certification, many “botanical” or fruit-forward gelato shops avoid using gelatin (an animal-based stabiliser) or alcohol-based extracts. However, always check if flavours like “Rum & Raisin” or certain chocolate blends contain alcohol before purchasing.

Most gelaterias in Singapore offer a range of sorbetti, which are naturally vegan as they are made with water, sugar, and fruit. Additionally, the “dairy-free” trend has led to an increase in gelato made with nut milks (like oat or coconut).

These are particularly popular in Singapore due to the high rate of lactose intolerance in the local population.

Local artisans have mastered the “East-meets-West” fusion. Some of the most popular local flavors include:

Mao Shan Wang: Using pure durian flesh for an pungent, creamy experience.

Sea Salt Gula Melaka: A local take on salted caramel.

Chrysanthemum with Cacao Nibs: A refreshing, floral tea-based flavor.

Pulut Hitam: Inspired by the black glutinous rice dessert.

Pandan Smoked Vanilla: Using local screwpine leaves for a fragrant twist.

The price reflects the shelf life and labor. Commercial ice cream is made in massive quantities and designed to last months in a freezer. Artisanal gelato is made in small “micro-batches” and is best consumed within a few days of churning to maintain its texture.

The cost also accounts for the higher milk-to-air ratio—you are essentially buying more “actual food” and less “frozen air” per scoop.

Home freezers are generally set to -18°C or lower, which is too cold for gelato. If you store a pint at home, it will likely become rock-hard.

To enjoy it at its best, take it out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for 5 to 10 minutes to “temper” before scooping.

To prevent ice crystals (freezer burn), press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the gelato before closing the lid.