Edinburgh is a city that prides itself on its diverse culinary offerings, and the ice cream scene is no exception. From traditional Scottish flavors to artisanal gelato creations, there is something to please every palate. Each ice cream shop we’ll explore has its own unique charm, ensuring a memorable experience with every lick.
Whether you’re a local in search of a new favorite spot or a visitor looking to treat yourself to the best ice cream Edinburgh has to offer, get ready to scoop up memories and savor the flavors that make Edinburgh’s ice cream scene truly exceptional.
1. Artisan Gelato Edinburgh
21 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1BP
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s old town, Artisan Gelato offer home made Italian ice cream, sorbet, coffee and shortbread. They’ve been serving scoops since 2017, with a range of classic flavours as well as dairy free options available.
2. Mary’s Milk Bar
19 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HS
Mary makes the ice cream for Mary’s Milk Bar herself every morning, so you can always find fresh and ever-changing flavours to sample here. Mary originally worked as a chocolatier, before training at the prestigious Carpigiani Gelato University in Italy, so you know the gelato here will be top notch!
3. Moo Pie Gelato
26 St Mary’s St, Edinburgh EH1 1SU
Moo Pie is an amazing small shop that’s driven by creativity. They are known for their ‘Moo Pies’ – artisan gelato stuffed between two freshly baked cookies. You’ll find all sorts of unusual flavours here – even pickle and cream cheese!
4. Bon Bon Gelateria
65 Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AQ
Bon Bon serve homemade Italian gelato, milkshakes, cakes and waffles loved by locals. Sit in their seating area in store or find them on food delivery apps!
5. Smoov Gelato Coffee
244 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AB
All of Smoov’s gelato is fresh and natural, with their store driven by a love of gelato and coffee! They aim to bring joy to people through their food, using top-quality local produce and paying attention to the finishing touches. Their gelato is handmade every single day, with flavours changing every few days. Their milk is sourced from a local milk farm, and they were trained in Bergamo in Italy by gelato professionals.
6. Joelato
Bonnie and Wild food market, Edinburgh EH1 3SS
Joe, the founder of Joelato, is a self-confessed gelatoholic. He aims to replicate the taste of ice cream you have on holiday, using local fruit, milk, and cream to recreate those special memories.
He was trained in Bologna at the world famous Carpigiani Gelato University and went on to create the Joelato that’s loved by locals and tourists alike. Find them in Bonnie and Wild, a Scottish food market, and in their new shop in Stockbridge.
As we come to the end of our exploration of the best ice cream shops in Edinburgh, it’s clear that this city has a lot to offer in terms of frozen delights.
Whether you prefer classic flavors or crave adventurous combinations, there’s an ice cream shop in Edinburgh that will cater to your desires. Each shop we’ve highlighted has its own story to tell, its own commitment to quality ingredients, and its own inviting ambiance that adds to the overall experience.
So, whether you’re strolling down the Royal Mile, exploring the city’s historic sites, or simply in need of a refreshing treat on a warm day, be sure to indulge in the creamy delights offered by these ice cream shops. Remember to check their opening hours, as they can get busy during peak times, and take the opportunity to explore the surrounding attractions as well.
Our Guide to Edinburgh
- Here are the best bakeries in Edinburgh
- Read our guide on the best haggis in Edinburgh
- Check out the best french restaurants in Edinburgh
