Montreal’s Best Ice Cream Spots: Where to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Montreal takes its ice cream seriously, and the city is packed with spots serving up everything from creamy gelatos to inventive soft-serve flavors. Whether you’re craving indulgent classics or adventurous twists, these ice cream parlors will cool you down in style. Here’s a guide to the best ice cream spots in Montreal for a truly delightful treat.
1. Kem CoBa
- Location: 60 Fairmount Avenue W, Mile End
- Highlights: Artisanal small-batch ice cream, sorbets, Twist of the Moment
Kem CoBa is a Mile End favorite known for its unique and vibrant flavors like Vietnamese coffee and salted butter. Their Twist of the Moment, a rotating soft-serve combo, keeps fans coming back for something new every time. Be prepared for lines—it’s that good!
2. Ca Lem
- Location: Multiple locations, including 6926 Sherbrooke Street W, NDG
- Highlights: Asian-inspired flavors, Instagram-worthy cones
Famous for its soft-serve cones in flavors like black sesame, matcha, and Thai tea, Ca Lem is a trendy spot for those looking to snap a pic-worthy treat. Their seasonal menu keeps things fresh and exciting, and the bold flavors deliver every time.
3. Dalla Rose
- Location: 4609 Notre-Dame Street W, Saint-Henri
- Highlights: Ice cream sandwiches, locally sourced ingredients
Dalla Rose offers homemade ice cream with a focus on high-quality, local ingredients. Their ice cream sandwiches, made with freshly baked cookies, are a standout treat and a favorite among locals.
4. Le Bilboquet
- Location: Multiple locations, including 1311 Bernard Avenue W, Outremont
- Highlights: Iconic Montreal institution, decadent flavors
A staple of Montreal’s ice cream scene since 1983, Le Bilboquet delivers indulgent scoops like Brou Ha! Ha!—a mix of praline almonds, brownies, and caramel. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth and a taste for tradition.
5. Ripples Crème Glacée Maison
- Location: 3880 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Plateau Mont-Royal
- Highlights: Neighborhood charm, unique flavors
Located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Ripples offers a delightful mix of traditional and adventurous flavors. Favorites include halva and chocolate chunk cheesecake, making this spot a must-visit for creamy, dreamy ice cream.
6. La Diperie
- Location: Multiple locations, including 68 Avenue des Pins E, Plateau Mont-Royal
- Highlights: Customizable soft-serve, decadent dips and toppings
At La Diperie, it’s all about customization. Choose from a variety of chocolate dips and add toppings like sprinkles, nuts, or cookie crumbs to create your perfect cone. It’s a playground for your sweet tooth!
7. Havre aux Glaces
- Location: Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market
- Highlights: Seasonal sorbets, natural ingredients
Known for their fruit-forward sorbets and all-natural ice creams, Havre aux Glaces focuses on highlighting Quebec’s seasonal produce. Their peach sorbet and maple taffy ice cream are must-tries for a refreshing and local flavor experience.
8. Les Givrés
- Location: 334 Rue de Castelnau E, Villeray
- Highlights: Homemade cones, creative flavors
Les Givrés adds a unique touch with homemade cones and inventive flavors that change regularly. They also offer ice cream cakes and popsicles, making it a go-to spot for celebrations or a cool treat on a hot day.
Tips for Ice Cream Lovers
- Expect a Line: Popular spots like Kem CoBa and Ca Lem often have long lines, but the wait is worth it.
- Try Seasonal Flavors: Many shops offer limited-edition flavors, so ask about what’s new.
- Combine with a Stroll: Many ice cream shops are located in vibrant neighborhoods like Mile End, Saint-Henri, and the Plateau—perfect for a post-scoop walk.
Final Thoughts
Montreal’s ice cream scene is a delicious journey through local creativity and diverse flavors. From artisanal small-batch creations to playful, Instagram-ready cones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a cone, explore the city, and savor the sweet side of Montreal!
