Best Gelato in Singapore

A guide to gelato in Singapore

Gelato in Singapore is easy to find, from small dessert shops to mall kiosks. In a hot city, a scoop is a simple way to cool down. This guide explains what makes gelato different, which flavours to try and how to pick a good shop.

What is gelato?

Gelato is the Italian word for ice cream. It is usually made with more milk and less cream than many other ice creams. It is also churned more slowly, so less air gets in.

The result is dense, smooth and full of flavour. Gelato is served a little warmer than ice cream, so it feels soft in the mouth. Fruit sorbets, called sorbetto, often sit on the same counter. These are usually made without milk.

Gelato flavours to try in Singapore

Many shops offer Italian classics such as pistachio, hazelnut, chocolate and stracciatella. Stracciatella is milk gelato with fine flakes of chocolate. Look out for local flavours too:

• Pandan: a fragrant green leaf used in many Southeast Asian desserts. It tastes sweet and grassy.
• Gula melaka: dark palm sugar with a rich, caramel taste.
• Durian: a strong-smelling tropical fruit that many locals love. Try a small taste first.
• Kaya: a sweet coconut and egg jam, best known from kaya toast.
• Milk tea or coffee: flavours based on teh and kopi, the local tea and coffee.

Flavours change often, so the list at each shop will differ. Many shops let you taste a flavour or two before you choose.

Where to eat gelato

Birds of Paradise Gelato Boutique is a dessert shop in the Katong & Joo Chiat area. Pair your scoop with a walk past the colourful Koon Seng Road Shophouses. The area is also known for Peranakan food and for 328 Katong Laksa. See more places on our Katong & Joo Chiat restaurant page.

Katong is in the east of the island, away from the city centre. It makes a relaxed half day out, with old shophouses, local food and quiet streets. If you would like to stay nearby, see our Katong & Joo Chiat hotels.

You will find more sweet stops on our Dessert page and in Cafés & Bakeries. Apiary, a dessert shop in Chinatown & Tanjong Pagar, is listed for ice cream.

How to choose a good gelato shop

• Look at the colours. Natural pistachio gelato is a dull green-brown, not bright green. Banana gelato should be pale, not yellow.
• Check the height. Gelato piled very high above the tray may contain more air. Flat or covered tubs are a good sign.
• Ask to taste. A small sample tells you a lot about texture and sweetness.
• Mind allergies. Nut flavours such as pistachio and hazelnut sit next to other tubs, and scoops may be shared. Tell the staff if you have a nut allergy.
• Cup or cone? In the heat, a cup is easier. Gelato melts fast outdoors, so eat it in the shade or indoors.

Rough prices

A single scoop often costs around S$4 to S$6, and a double around S$7 to S$10. Special flavours or waffle cones can cost more. Prices change, so check the board before you order.

FAQs about gelato

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato usually has more milk, less cream and less air than ice cream. It is served slightly warmer. This makes it denser and softer, with a stronger taste.

Is there dairy-free gelato in Singapore?

Yes. Many shops sell fruit sorbets made without milk. Some also offer vegan flavours. Ask the staff to confirm, as recipes vary.

What local gelato flavour should I try first?

Pandan and gula melaka are good starting points. They are sweet and fragrant, and easy to like. Try durian only if you enjoy strong flavours.

Is gelato a good treat for kids?

Yes, it is a good treat on a hot day. Choose a cup rather than a cone for small children. For more family ideas, see Things to Do With Kids in Singapore.