Montreal’s ice cream scene is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. From classic parlors to experimental dessert labs, the city offers a variety of frozen treats that cater to every palate. Here are five standout ice cream shops you must try during this summer.
1. Kem CoBa – Mile End
Since 2010, Kem CoBa has been a Mile End favorite, known for its small-batch ice creams and sorbets crafted without preservatives. Founded by pastry chefs Ngoc Phan and Vincent Beck, the shop offers unique flavors like pandan, coconut-mango, and salted butter caramel. Its pink awning is a summer staple, and the queues are a testament to its popularity.
- Address: 60 Avenue Fairmount Ouest, Montreal
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Monday: Closed
- Website: kemcoba.com
2. Meetha – Parc-Extension
Meetha brings a creative twist to Indian-inspired desserts. The owners Deexit and Aakruti Patel offer flavors such as rose-syrup falooda with basil seeds, turmeric-spiced haldi doodh, and mango-chili chaat.
- Address: 787A Rue de Liège Ouest, Montréal, QC H3N 1B1
- Hours: Tuesday–Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Friday–Sunday: 2:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Monday: Closed
- Website: cremeriemeetha.ca
3. Dalla Rose – Saint-Henri
Dalla Rose is a chef-driven ice cream shop that emphasizes local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Co-owners Michael Dalla Libera and Nick Rosati, both alumni of Nora Gray, offer up to 40 rotating flavors throughout the season, along with some of the city’s best ice cream sandwiches. The shop’s commitment to quality and community has made it a Saint-Henri staple.
- Address: 4609 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montréal, QC H4C 1S5
- Hours: Monday–Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Thursday–Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: dallarose.ca
4. Iconoglace – Mile End & Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie
Iconoglace redefines the ice cream experience with its inventive soft serves and sundaes. The shop offers unique combinations like kombucha floats and maple-water slush, all made in-house. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and a rotating menu, Iconoglace is an essential visit for those seeking a fresh take on frozen desserts.
- Mile End Location:
- Address: 50 Avenue Laurier Ouest, Montréal, QC H2T 2N4
- Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie Location:
- Address: 1320 Rue Bélanger, Montréal, QC H2G 1A1
- Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: iconoglace.ca
5. Les Givrés – Multiple Locations
Les Givrés is renowned for its artisanal ice creams and sorbets, all made in-house, including their signature cones. With a commitment to quality and creativity, they offer a range of flavors that cater to both traditional and adventurous palates. Their dedication to craftsmanship has earned them a loyal following in Montreal.
- Villeray Location:
- Address: 334 Rue de Castelnau Est, Montréal, QC H2R 1P7
- Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie Location:
- Address: 2730 Rue Masson, Montréal, QC H1Y 1W5
- Hours: Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Thursday–Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Monday–Tuesday: Closed
- Hochelaga Location:
- Address: 3681 Rue Ontario Est, Montréal, QC H1W 1S1
- Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: lesgivres.ca
Exploring these ice cream parlors offers a taste of Montreal’s diverse and dynamic dessert landscape. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or adventurous combinations, these shops provide a sweet escape in the heart of the city.
