We’ve spent months trying out the options, so without further ado we’re delighted to present our favorite ice creams of 2022!
We’ve spent months trying out the options, so without further ado we’re delighted to present our favorite ice creams of 2022!
Ice Pot
Hala Gwardii & Soczi 6B
Ice Pot has long been one of the Insider’s favorite scoops and they keep getting better with age. Produced by a true enthusiast, the seasonal flavors and occasionally wacky experiments (mulled wine, apple pie, etc.) never score less than a perfect ten. Of their more recent successes, the pear with honey specifically stands tall. And if the tastes are a different level, then the service is as well.
Dal Dalla Gelato
ul. Leszczyńska 4
The brainchild of Luca Dalla Costa, this newbie has already made ripples across Warsaw for their commitment to excellence. Softer gelato you will not find, and we’ve got a sneaking little feeling that this might well grow to become Warsaw’s biggest star. Even making their own savoiardi biscuits for their tiramisu ice cream, weaknesses are non-existent. For something special, check the croccante di noto, a teasing pleasure of almond, orange peel and salted caramel.
Jednorożec
ul. Narbutta 38
What is it with Mokotów and ice cream? Amid a hugely competitive field, the wide flavor choice, quality ingredients and loving hand of Jednorożec mark them a notch above their immediate competitors. With around 30 flavors to try, find your ice cream served with a miniature cone perched at a jaunty angle on top of your scoop.
Lourse
ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 13 (Raffles Europejski Warsaw)
Ever since its inception in the 19th century, the Europejski Hotel has been known for its elegant patisserie – the Lourse. Revived by Raffles, there’s no better indulgence after promenading up the Royal Route on a bright, sunny day. Also available from a vintage cart stood outside, we can vouch for their deliciously luxurious apricot flavor.
Na Końcu Tęczy
Al. Wyzwolenia 15 & Elektrownia (ul. Dobra 42)
Named in honor of the rainbow that once stood in the center of Pl. Zbawiciela, this vibrant spot occasionally likes to push the envelope when it comes to flavors, but it’s the fruity flavors that seem to work the best: the kiwi mascarpone is another level, as is the apple sorbet. Lines can stretch on the weekend, but you can take that as reassurance as to the quality that awaits – and lining up, after all, is something of a Warsaw rite of passage!
Nitro Lody
ul. Zwycięzców 11
Frozen with liquid nitrogen, just watching the production process is enough to make customers feel like they’re viewing some NASA sponsored experiment: kids and dogs aren’t the only ones that love looking at the smoke billowing from the hatchway. Smoother than midnight velvet, choices include mango & mint and raspberry & white chocolate. Should you wish, jazz these up further with sprinkles of Gummi Bears, fresh fruit or M&Ms.
Pallone
ul. Brzeska 29/31 / Francuska 31 / Polna 30A
Made to Italian recipes reputed to be 160-years old (with some personal magic thrown in to boot), Pallone pride themselves on quality ingredients: chocolate from Belgian and Colombia, citrus fruits from Sicily, and the finest cream and milk you’ll find in Poland. There’s nothing too wacky about the flavor choice but the tastes will punch you out. Wow!!!
Quattro Si
ul. Jasna 4B (Pruszków)
This Pruszków-based gelateria raised eyebrows last year after it was ranked 42nd in the Gelato Festival World Rankings. Owned by Peter Bertoti, the parlor is no stranger to accolades having previously scooped domestic awards for its plum and blueberry flavors. The plaudits have been well deserved, and their raspberry with mint can count as one of their finer moments. Be warned though, such is the reputation, people actually travel in from Warsaw to enjoy what they offer – queues are par the course.
Roszki
ul. Andersa 37
Cheerfully pink on the inside, Roszki have come a long way since opening four-years back. Celebrated by some for their waffles, pancakes and Oreo coffee, even more know them for their ice cream. Staunch favorites number the creamy mango lassi, though it’s their chocolate-based temptations that are something of a strong suit. In this regard, consider their chocolate habanero as their unique selling point – coming with a fiery twist, it’s got a fan club that extends beyond Muranów’s geographic borders.
Tłusty Kotek
ul. Hoża 51
Set within an old dairy plant, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find The Fat Cat appearing on every rundown of local ice cream faves. The choice here is narrower than most, but the quality is A-Class. Squeezed inside a pair of cookies, the ice cream sandwich is an essential order. More than just ice cream, head here to also fill up on some of the city’s best coffee.
Ulica Baśniowa
Al. Wojska Polskiego 41
The choice isn’t just vast, it’s sugar-free thanks to their commitment to using natural stevia instead of synthesized horrors. Few leave with anything but rave reviews, and their cause is furthered by an equally impressive choice of cakes and tarts. It’s a Żoliborz legend – and rightfully so.
Kuncer
ul. Wyszogrodzka 1 / ul. Mickiewicza 27 / ul. Lazurowa 89
Founded by Joanna Kuncer, a sociologist by profession, her eponymous chain has grown to become one of Warsaw’s loudest forces on the city’s ice cream map – try their passion fruit for a one-way ticket to heaven. For special occasions, take note that Joanna’s team can also turn their hand to ‘ice cream cakes’ with flavors including vanilla with raspberry.
Budka z Lodami / Sosenka
ul. Francuska 30
On any given August weekend you’ll find Saska’s longest queues steadily building up outside this simple, street-side cabin. Everyone (including the Insider’s dog) agrees they’re worth the time, not least for their lashings of frozen yogurt drizzled with freshly chopped fruits. And when it comes to ice cream, watch out for exotica such as guava or watermelon. There’s too much to love here, and if you really want to show your love for them then check out their bricks and mortar operation: Cukiernia Saska (ul. Saska 105)
