This town is packed with super duper scoopers. So, add these ice cream and gelato shops in Hong Kong to your list!
Whether it’s comforting street food, delicious treats from my favourite cake shops, or a nostalgic bowl of Cantonese dessert soup, nothing can replace ice cream and gelato when the summer heat hits. Having spent many hot seasonsin the 852, I’ve tasted my way across parlours around town before giving you my best picks. Whatever the season, here’s where you should go for sweet sorbets and creamy gelatos, handpicked by yours truly based on value-for-money, deliciousness, and Insta-worthiness.
Unmissable Hong Kong ice cream and gelato shops
1. Messina: Heavenly gelato
No list of Hong Kong’s best ice creams would be complete without Messina. This Australian gelato brand has been stealing the hearts of local dessert lovers since its opening. The menu brims with a smorgasbord of flavours, from signatures like Hokey Pokey and Super Dulce De Leche to Hong Kong-exclusive creations. While we love the evergreen options, we always return to catch their seasonal specials, too.
Must-try flavours: Dragon’s Back, Tofu Fa, Pistachio, Tong Chung Beng (Peak exclusive)
How much: From $70
Address: Messina has locations in Central and The Peak.
2. The Ice Cream and Cookie Co.: Best ice cream sandwiches in town
Tucked away on Gough Street is The Ice Cream and Cookie Co. – a cosy hole in the wall serving up quality scoops in cups, cones, or between two indulgent housemade cookies. When I first saw its picture-perfect ice cream sandwiches on the ‘gram, I knew I had to pay the Co. a visit, and I was not disappointed! I love that this parlour serves a diverse line up of traditional and South-east Asian flavours, and the sweetness is well-balanced in its frosty sandwiches.
Must-try flavours: Hojicha Caramel, Onde Onde, Peanut Butter Mochi
How much: From $58
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 1 – 10pm; Fri, 1 – 11pm; Sat, 12 – 11pm; Sun, 1 – 10pm
Address: The Ice Cream and Cookie Co., G/F, 18 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong
Ice Cream and Cookie Co. website
3. Dood Bottega Gelateria: Premium gelato galore
Dood Bottega Gelateria will forever be my “hear me out” ice cream shop in Hong Kong, and here’s why. Founded by a local gelato wizard, this shop always ensures the use of top quality fruits, nuts, chocolates, and other fresh ingredients in-house. No artificial colouring or flavouring, just good, honest food in every scoop… That’s why Dood Bottega sits at a higher price point than other ice cream shops on this list. While you might be hesitant about its three-figure price tag, trust me when I say the gelato here is worth every penny.
Must-try flavours: Pistachio, Hazelnut, Kyoto Matcha
How much: From $79 per scoop
Opening hours: Mon, 4:30 – 9:30pm; Tue – Sun, 1 – 9:30pm
Address: Dood Bottega Gelateria, Unit 23, B201, K11 Musea, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
4. Snack Baby Gelato: Top lactose- and dairy-free options
This Hollywood Road gelateria makes it on the list for its alternative diet-friendly options. Snack Baby puts its own spin on the classic Italian treat by featuring lactose- and dairy-free flavours among the rotating selection. Silky smooth gelato is slow-churned and made with premium ingredients almost entirely from scratch. Beyond gelato, Snack Baby also whips up comforting cocktails, indulgent milkshakes, and more.
Must-try flavours: Affogato Baby, Hong Kong Lemon Tea, Peanut Butter Jam
How much: From $58 per scoop
Opening hours: Sun – Wed, 12 – 10pm; Thu – Sat, 12pm – 12am
Address: Snack Baby Gelato, 93 – 95 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
5. The Matcha Tokyo: Picture perfect soft serve and parfaits
A haven for matcha lovers, Matcha Tokyo is where you can get quality tea-flavoured soft serves and parfaits. This Japanese dessert joint whips up ice cream in-house with premium Hokkaido milk and three types of matcha: Japan Premium, Kyoto Uji, and Tokyo Rich. Personally, I find its parfaits the ideal afternoon treat on a scorching summer day (or any day, really!).
Must-try flavours: Brown Sugar Jelly Matcha Parfait, Strawberry Matcha Parfait, Matcha Soft Serve
How much: From $42 per item
Address: The Matcha Tokyo has various locations across Hong Kong.
6. Venchi: All hits, no misses
This Italian chocolate and gelato brand has successfully taken root in the city as one of Hong Kong’s best known ice cream destination. With over 90 recipes up its sleeve, Venchi is one of my go-to spots for gelato in Hong Kong. Using premium local dairy, the parlour celebrates traditional Italian flavours alongside contemporary creations and Hong Kong-inspired flavours. In addition to its creamy gelato, Venchi also caters to vegans and those that are lactose intolerant with its line of sorbet, which has no added sugar or artificial ingredients.
Must-try flavours: Pistachio, Tiramisu, Coconut Red Bean Gelato (limited-time)
How much: From $59
Address: Venchi has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
Did I miss your favourite? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do any of these ice cream shops offer options for dietary restrictions, like vegan or dairy-free?
Many ice cream shops in Hong Kong are increasingly catering to various dietary needs. While specific offerings vary by shop, several now provide vegan and dairy-free options.
What is the typical price range for ice cream at these recommended shops?
The price of ice cream can vary significantly across these shops. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from HKD $40 to HKD $80+ for a single serving, with specialty creations or larger portions costing more.
Are these shops mainly for takeaway, or do they offer seating areas?
Some of the listed ice cream shops are primarily grab-and-go spots, while others also offer limited seating or small dine-in areas where you can comfortably enjoy your ice cream. It's advisable to check photos or call ahead if a seating area is important for your visit.
