I scream for ice cream, and I know I’m not alone!
There’s something undeniably magical about that first lick of a cold, creamy scoop on a scorching day. And if you’re anything like me, you’re on a constant quest for the perfect cone, the most indulgent sundae, the best gelato, or the most whimsical creation that can make your taste buds dance with delight.
So get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure as we uncover Montreal’s must-try ice cream spots.
Where to Find the Best Classic Cones
Le Glacier Bilboquet
For over 40 years, Le Glacier Bilboquet has been a beloved fixture in Montreal’s ice cream scene, with multiple locations across the island. Priding itself on using only the finest, locally sourced ingredients, they offer an array of handmade ice creams and sorbets, featuring playful and enticing names like Brou ha! ha! with delicious brownie pieces, praline almonds, and ribbons of caramel sauce, and Cacaophonie, a dark chocolate ice cream with white chocolate chunks and cashews. With its imaginative flavours and commitment to quality, Le Glacier Bilboquet is a must-visit for ice cream enthusiasts.
Wild Willy’s
Located in the picturesque Pointe-Claire Village, Wild Willy’s has been satisfying ice cream cravings for over 20 years. From classic favourites like apple pie, to unique creations including the Charlie Brownie and my favourite, the Tiger Tail, Wild Willy’s menu caters to diverse palates. Celebrate special occasions with their ice cream cakes, reserve their ice cream truck for a memorable event, or indulge in their signature King Kong bowl with all your friends (it has 15 scoops of ice cream!). With additional options for vegans and the lactose intolerant, there’s something for everyone at Wild Willy’s – even treats for our four-legged friends!
Where to Taste the Best Far Eastern Flavours
Ca Lem
Ca Lem: that’s the Vietnamese word for ice cream. Located in Montreal’s NDG neighbourhood, Ca Lem brings big flavours in a small ice cream shop. Owned by Stephanie Le, Ca Lem is a tribute to her cultural heritage and passion for exploring diverse flavours, including flavours like pandan, black sesame, lychee, Vietnamese coffee, and even White Rabbit (that’s right, everyone’s favourite Lunar New Year candy!). And let’s not forget about Ca Lem’s vibrant and Instagram-worthy decor that adds an extra sprinkle of fun to everyone’s visit. Be sure to make your way to Ca Lem for a scoop (or two!) of ca lem!
Kem Coba
With lines snaking around the block, Kem Coba has earned its place as a treasured destination for those seeking ice cream bliss. Indulge in their exotic offerings, from the daring durian to the enchanting pandanus leaves, and discover why their raspberry lychee ice cream has achieved legendary status. With each scoop, Kem Coba invites you to savour the creativity and passion behind their innovative flavours, elevating the ice cream experience to new dimensions. Located on Fairmount Street West and boasting a second location in the East end of the city, Kem Coba is a must-visit for those seeking extraordinary ice cream creations. You’ll find yourself yearning for it even during the chilly off-season!
Where to Cool Off With a Dip
Chocolats Favoris
Welcome to the whimsical world of Chocolats Favoris, where chocolate dreams come true. From a small artisanal chocolate factory in Lévis to a chain of chocolate stores across Canada, Chocolats Favoris has captivated taste buds with their decadent delights. Prepare to be enchanted by their signature chocolate fondue dips, including irresistible flavours like chocolate praline, dark chocolate, and dulce de leche, all perfect for dipping their classic vanilla or strawberry soft serve. And that’s not all, you can explore their ever-changing displays of delectable chocolate creations and witness the artistry of desserts being made right before your eyes. Get ready to experience a world of chocolate that is as extraordinary as it is delicious!
La Diperie
With its humble beginnings in the Plateau, this exceptional shop has blossomed into over 20 locations throughout the city. Indulge in their delectable soft-serve ice cream, featuring a remarkable array of over 40 dipping options such as cookies and cream, salted caramel, and classic milk chocolate. Elevate your cone with a variety of delightful toppings, including crushed pretzels and candy, for a personalized ice cream masterpiece. La Diperie also offers a delightful range of treats, from hot chocolates and coffee, to ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes, and more.
Where to Get the Best Italian Gelato
Dalla Rose
Discover the enchanting Dalla Rose, the ultimate Saint-Henri gelato haven. Founded by former Nora Gray employees, Michael Dalla Libera and Nick Rosati, this delightful shop showcases locally sourced, organic dairy and seasonal ingredients, resulting in ever-changing flavours that will tantalize your taste buds. Since its opening in July 2016, Dalla Rose has become a beloved destination for those seeking the finest gelato in town. Step inside and immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance, adorned with beautiful tiles and designed to provide a charming space for savouring your treats. Oh! And be sure not to miss their mouthwatering ice cream sandwiches, now available for pickup and delivery.
Gastronomia Roberto
Unlike many other gelato shops, Little Italy’s Gastronomia Roberto takes pride in crafting their gelato from scratch, using traditional processes passed down through generations. Indulge in their delightful flavours, from the popular Baci, adorned with pieces of chocolate hazelnut candy, to timeless classics like pistachio and lemon meringue. Established in 1982, Gastronomia Roberto not only offers a delectable gelato experience, but also features a charming café and a fine grocery store. So you can treat your taste buds to a delightful cup of cappuccino, cool down with a nice scoop of gelato, or even explore their fresh pasta selection!
Where to Find the Most Creative Cones
Le Blueboy
Escape to a nostalgic ’60s beach-themed oasis at Le Blueboy, located in the vibrant Plateau Mont-Royal. Embracing the latest trends, Le Blueboy offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream cones with their fried, confectionary churro cones and refreshing fruit bowls (yup, you can enjoy your sorbet served inside a hollowed-out watermelon!). Don’t miss their creative flavours like the Mangonada, which features the refreshing Bloody Mango sorbet twist. To make the experience even more delightful, each bowl is adorned with sweet treats like candy, and playful decorations, like a charming little umbrella. Whether you’re cooling down during a heatwave or seeking a fun treat to share with friends, Le Blueboy promises a memorable summer experience.
Unicone
If you have childhood memories of drinking Milo, prepare to be amazed by Unicone‘s Milo soft serve! This is just the beginning of their extraordinary lineup of creative cones. Founded by two passionate sisters with a love for gastronomy and travel culture, Unicone takes inspiration from desserts around the world, crafting unique flavours that transport you to different cultures and memories without leaving Montreal. From the sumptuous Baklava cone with pistachios and Lebanese rose water, to the Brigadeiro cone adorned with chocolate sprinkles, each scoop is a delectable adventure. Discover their Ras Malai, Alfajores, and Corne de Gazelle cones, each capturing the essence of their respective origins. Unicone’s captivating flavours and imaginative concepts ensure a remarkable ice cream experience that is both enticing and unforgettable.
Montreal’s ice cream scene is a delightful adventure of flavours and fun. From classic cones to exotic delights, Italian gelato, and creative creations, these spots capture the essence of diverse cultures in their frozen treats. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to satisfy your cravings and make sweet memories!
The Lilac Blog 