The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.
Ice cream isn't just a dessert for me; it's one of my absolute favourite foods. Since moving to the city last year, I've been on a mission to explore every ice cream parlour Montreal has to offer, and I've discovered a treasure trove of delicious spots.
From creamy gelato to chocolate-dipped cones and soft serve, I've sampled it all. While I can't pick just one ultimate favourite when it comes to the best ice cream in Montreal, I can share my top eight ice cream spots that you simply must try. And, as a self-certified expert, you can trust my word!
After exploring dozens of places in search of the best ice cream, here are my top picks:
Zetti's Crémerie
Price: 💸💸
Address: 3839, Saint-Laurent Blvd, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Zetti's Crémerie has gained viral fame with its unique cones, crepes, and shakes.
Known for topping their creations with a full-sized piece of cake, Zetti's offers an indulgent ice cream experience like no other. Their most unique dessert is the puffy waffle: a bubble waffle cone filled with ice cream and an array of toppings such as fruits, brownies, and whipped cream.
Customers rave about the friendly staff and the vast selection of options. Zetti's is definitely a must-visit on your ice cream list.
Iconoglace
Price: 💸
Address:1320, rue Bélanger or 50, rue Laurier Ouest, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: If you're like me and soft serve is your absolute favourite, then run—don't walk—to Iconoglace. With two convenient locations in Mile End and near Jean Talon, Iconoglace is easily accessible by transit.
Their swirl cones feature some of the tastiest and most unique flavours, including lavender, guava, honeysuckle, rhubarb, and chai. Their sundae cups are not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy, adorned with beautiful sprinkles, fruits, and candy. The fusion of Quebec flavours, such as the local strawberries used in their soft serve, makes Iconoglace a memorable spot to bring friends.
Ca Lem Crémerie
Price: 💸
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: Sticking with the theme of soft serve, Ca Lem is renowned for its fruity soft serves and sorbets. The bright and colourful swirls tempt even chocolate lovers with flavours like blue slush, dragon fruit, and lemon cream.
Every Thursday, Ca Lem introduces a new flavour of the week and posts it on their social media. Who could say no to an orange creamsicle swirl cone? It's the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a cone every weekend.
Unicone
Price: 💸
Address: 3873, rue Saint-Denis St and 368, Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: People always say that if there's a line, the place will be good, but I never believed it much—until I tried Unicone. This fantastic ice cream parlour has two locations in downtown Montreal on St-Denis and Mont-Royal Ave Est, and it is definitely worth the wait.
What sets Unicone apart is its ever-changing menu of ice cream, each flavour unique and exciting. Currently, the parlour is serving up ice cream inspired by desserts from around the world. Indulge in flavours like baklava, alfajores, ras malai, and corne de gazelle. With such diverse options, you'll never get tired of Unicone.
Le Blueboy
Price: 💸💸
Address: 150, Mont-Royal Ave E, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: If a sundae is what you're after, then Le Blueboy is the place for you. Imagine strolling down Mont-Royal's pedestrianized street and indulging in a beautiful sundae.
While scrolling on Instagram, I saw a photo of a friend sharing a sundae served in a pineapple, and I knew I had to check it out. It was the most beautiful creation, topped with edible flowers and three types of soft serve.
Also, consider trying their unique offerings like the fried plantain sundae, mango daiquiri sundae, or the fry-day sundae (yes, it comes with French fries to dip in the ice cream). This place is worth the hype, especially if you want something different!
Sachére Desserts
Price: 💸💸
Address: 1274, Boul. de Maisonneuve E, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Sachére has gained popularity as an excellent vegan soft-serve destination, featuring unique fruity flavours that change regularly. Sadly, summer 2024 will be their last season serving ice cream, so now is the time to try their exquisite swirl soft serve before it's too late.
Some of their flavours of the week have included pineapple coconut, matcha dark chocolate, blueberry earl grey, and guava lime leaf.
In addition to soft serve, they offer other cold desserts like mochi, sundaes, and affogatos. This is the perfect spot to bring someone who might not want a traditional cone, as there are plenty of equally tasty options.
Kem CoBa
Price: 💸
Address: 60, Av. Fairmount O and 2525, Des Ormeaux, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Check out Kem CoBa for their "twist of the moment." This place caught my attention as a standout Montreal-based ice cream parlour when they released the limited-time La Québécoise cone, a blend of blueberry and honey soft serve.
Located in Mile End and with an additional location in Saint-Justin, Kem CoBa is easily accessible by foot, transit, or car. It's the perfect spot to take a fellow ice cream enthusiast and enjoy their unique and delicious offerings.
Café Gelato
Price: 💸
Address: 6737, Saint-Laurent Blvd, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Since 1962, Café Gelato has offered some of the best Italian ice cream I've had in the city. Located near the Jean-Talon Market, you can enjoy a sweet and refreshing scoop (or two… or three) of their creamy, classic gelato.
Guests are welcome to dine inside or in the outdoor seating area, making it a great place to go with friends. If you want to take some home, they also offer 500 ml containers of their delicious gelato.
Additionally, this café serves excellent coffee, so if you like an energy boost after your sweet treat, consider stopping by.
So, whether you're into unique soft serves, vegan options, or classic gelato, there's something in Montreal for everyone.
Grab a friend, follow this guide, and treat yourself to some of the best ice cream the city has to offer this summer. Happy indulging!
