Best Ice Cream Shops in Edinburgh

Nobles Ice Cream Cafe is a combined ice cream and pie shop located in Healdsburg, California, part of the broader "Noble Folk" establishment. Reviews consistently praise the quality of their ice cream and pie, highlighting homemade flavors and a friendly atmosphere. Customers appreciate the welcoming environment and the overall experience. While some reviews mention occasional issues with ice cream consistency or speed of service, the majority express satisfaction with the offerings. The cafe offers a selection of ice cream flavors and pies, with limited information available about other potential treats. It’s part of a larger brand, "Noble Folk," suggesting a broader food and beverage operation.

Sofi's - Ice Cream, Desserts & Coffee is a popular ice cream shop in Edinburgh, Scotland, known for its wide variety of flavors and commitment to accommodating customers with dietary restrictions, particularly those with gluten sensitivities. Reviews consistently praise the quality of the ice cream and the friendly service. Some customers have noted occasional issues with staff behavior, particularly regarding rudeness and a lack of helpfulness. Despite these occasional concerns, the overall customer experience is generally positive, with many highlighting the delicious ice cream, the availability of gluten-free options, and the shop’s convenient location. The shop offers a range of desserts and coffee alongside its ice cream, creating a complete treat destination. The shop is known for its refreshing treats and is a great place to cool down during warmer weather. The shop is known for its simple and refreshing treats and is a great place to cool down during warmer weather.

Mirth & Zest Gelateria is a popular ice cream shop located in Marchmont, Edinburgh. Reviews consistently praise its delicious ice cream, imaginative flavors, and friendly service. Customers enjoy a cozy atmosphere and the view overlooking Marchmont. While some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in flavor (e.g., the kiwi sorbet not tasting like kiwi), the overall sentiment is positive. A few reviews noted issues with service, such as a lack of greeting or eye contact from staff, and one review mentioned a lack of labeling for flavors. Despite these minor concerns, the shop is generally considered a delightful local treat. The business is active on Nextdoor and emphasizes community engagement. It's part of a cluster of similar businesses in Edinburgh, including Bon Bon, S Luca, and Crollas Gelateria.

Oscar's Gelato is a premium gelato shop in Edinburgh, known for its handcrafted, artisan gelato and constantly evolving menu of over 30 unique flavors. Reviews highlight both the deliciousness of the gelato and the shop's commitment to high-quality ingredients and homemade production. Some reviews mention a lack of staff during peak hours, leading to longer wait times, and a somewhat uncomfortable customer service experience. However, many customers praise the quality of the gelato, particularly flavors like salted caramel and Biscoff, and the overall experience. The shop's expansion plans across Edinburgh suggest a growing popularity and a dedication to providing a luxurious gelato experience. The business was founded by Calum, who brings years of experience to the operation, focusing on innovative flavor combinations and a commitment to using the best ingredients.

Sprinkles Cafe is a bakery and ice cream shop, part of the Henderson Beach Resort and operating independently with locations nationwide. It’s known for its celebrations and rewards customers through the ‘Sprinkles Perks’ program. The cafe offers a variety of sweet treats, including pastries, coffee, stuffed cookies, a range of ice cream flavors, cupcakes, and juices. Reviews highlight its friendly staff, dog-friendliness, and delicious offerings. Some reviewers mention it’s a popular spot for after-school treats and birthdays. The website emphasizes the rewards program and limited-time flavors. While some reviews mention a slight price increase, the overall sentiment is positive, describing it as a charming and delightful place.

Scoopz Desserts & Candies is a popular dessert shop in Dunfermline, known for its wide variety of treats and unique offerings. Reviews consistently praise the quality of their ice cream, particularly the Dubai Pistachio range and the ‘Weigh Out Sweets’ option, allowing customers to create their own custom selections. Many customers highlight the deliciousness of their doughnuts, waffles, and crepes. However, some reviews mention a lack of vegan options and a tendency for staff to be unfriendly. There have been complaints about inconsistent service quality and the occasional issue with delivery times. Despite these criticisms, Scoopz maintains a strong reputation for its diverse menu, generous portions, and overall enjoyable experience. The shop has been recently refurbished and is now a more modern and inviting space. The shop is currently offering a limited selection of ice cream flavours and has a few complaints about the quality of some of the products.

Alandas Gelato is a family-run business dedicated to crafting high-quality, award-winning gelato using traditional Italian techniques and the finest Scottish ingredients. Rooted in a passion for sharing the taste of home, the company has earned a strong reputation for excellence and consistently delights customers with its unique flavors and commitment to freshness. They specialize in handcrafted gelato and, notably, offer a premium hot Belgian chocolate experience. Alandas Gelato operates two locations: Edinburgh and North Berwick. They utilize the finest Scottish cream and milk from East Lothian, contributing to the gelato’s smooth, velvety texture. The parlours are described as "bright, brash, shiny" and a "perfect place to enjoy a scoop." The business is still run by the same family, demonstrating a long-standing dedication to quality and tradition. They have built a trusted name over decades, prioritizing customer satisfaction and consistently delivering exceptional food.

Mary’s Milk Bar is a popular ice cream shop in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, known for its inventive flavors and playful presentation. Reviews consistently praise the quality of the ice cream, particularly the unique Spaghetti Sundae, which combines multiple textures and flavors in a surprising and delicious way. Many customers note the long queues, especially during peak hours, reflecting the shop’s popularity. The shop’s commitment to sustainability is also highlighted, with furniture made from recycled milk bottles. While some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in flavor, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, describing Mary’s Milk Bar as a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers. The shop offers a diverse range of flavors, changing daily, and also sells chocolate bars and merchandise. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the shop has a charming, retro atmosphere.

SoftCore is a unique ice cream shop located on Leith St. It distinguishes itself through a distinctive aesthetic and product offerings centered around a playful, themed brand experience. The shop’s core identity revolves around a vibrant, alternative, and body-positive theme. Notable products include String Bikini Ice Cream Sandwiches in flavors like Melted Ice Cream, Checked, Fat Brat, Batty, and Roller Rink String, as well as limited edition T-Shirt Dresses and sticker packs. SoftCore cultivates a specific customer experience centered around self-love, body positivity, and a celebration of individuality. The website content highlights themes of body positivity, alternative aesthetics, and community, fostering a welcoming environment for customers who identify with its values. Reviews indicate a generally positive experience, with customers praising the unique flavors and overall atmosphere, although some have noted higher prices.

S Luca is an ice cream shop known for its diverse range of flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Reviews highlight a wide selection of ice cream options, including unique choices like Black Hawaiian and Nutella. While some customers have noted occasional inconsistencies in service or ingredient quality, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive experience, particularly regarding the quality of the ice cream itself. The shop is praised for its friendly staff and convenient location. The website for ‘Luca-S’ embroidery reveals a brand focused on crafting convenience and quality, suggesting a potential connection between the two businesses, though the embroidery side doesn’t directly relate to the ice cream shop’s offerings. The historical context of San Luca, Italy, is separate and unrelated to the ice cream shop’s operations.

Moo Pie Gelato is a popular, small ice cream bar located in Edinburgh’s Old Town. It’s known for its fresh, daily-made gelato and sorbets, offering a unique and often busy experience for customers. The business specializes in a rotating selection of gelato and sorbet flavors. Notable offerings include: Milk gelato with dulce de leche sauce and caramelised waffle chunks. A magically rich and creamy dark chocolate sorbet. Moo Pie Gelato is described as a "hole-in-the-wall" establishment that consistently attracts a queue, indicating a strong local following and a desirable product. The emphasis on fresh, daily production and creative flavor combinations contributes to its appeal. The business offers a range of customizable ice cream treats, moving beyond traditional 99s. Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, noon – 6:00 PM. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Address: 26 St Mary's Street, Old Town, Edinburgh EH1 1SU. Phone Number: 0131 241 8233.

Baskin-Robbins is a globally recognized ice cream chain with a rich history dating back to 1945. It’s known for its extensive flavor selection – the iconic ‘31 flavors’ – and its celebratory offerings, particularly custom ice cream cakes. Reviews consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, often mentioning generous samples and a welcoming atmosphere. However, some reviews also note inconsistencies in service quality and cleanliness issues, with concerns raised about slow service and poorly maintained facilities. While many appreciate the delicious ice cream and variety of options, including healthier choices like fruit-based sorbets and low-fat options, others have experienced issues with product quality and overall hygiene. Despite these mixed reviews, Baskin-Robbins remains a popular destination for ice cream lovers seeking a fun and flavorful treat.

Equi’s Edinburgh is an ice cream shop with a rich history, tracing its roots back to 1915 when Pietro Equi introduced creamy Italian ice cream to Scotland. For over a century, the business has continued to craft high-quality ice cream, blending Italian heritage with a distinctly Scottish spirit. It specializes in indulgent ice cream using only the finest local milk and cream, suitable for any occasion. Located on Castlehill in Edinburgh, it’s positioned as a ‘touch of star quality’ for any occasion, offering a nostalgic treat with each scoop. Reviews often highlight the warm and comforting experience offered by the shop.

Ice Angels is a performing team associated with the Allen Americans ECHL hockey team, providing entertainment at Reading Royals home games and community events throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania. The team is comprised of a diverse group of dancers, including Captains Andria and Katelyn, with backgrounds in dance, cheerleading, nursing, accounting, and education. They engage with fans and the community through arena performances and community outreach, fostering a strong team dynamic and a focus on local engagement. The Ice Angels have a core mission of connecting with the local community and providing entertainment for fans of all ages. The team members come from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds, showcasing a diverse talent pool. While reviews highlight the team's friendliness, enthusiasm, and delicious desserts, some mention limited ice cream options.

Oscar's on the Prom is an ice cream shop located on Portobello Promenade and The Prom in Edinburgh. It’s known for its gelato, offering a wide selection of flavors. Reviews highlight the deliciousness of the gelato, with many praising the pistachio flavor. However, some reviews mention inconsistent service, with some customers reporting slow service and rude staff. A recurring theme is the portion sizes, with some finding them small for the price. There are mixed opinions about the quality of the fish and chips, with some finding them delicious while others found them underwhelming and greasy. Several reviewers have noted the lack of a diverse menu beyond gelato and ice cream. The shop is currently expanding, with new locations planned. Overall, Oscar’s on the Prom is a popular spot for a sweet treat, but service and value can be inconsistent. The website states that new menu items and offerings are coming soon, and encourages visitors to stay tuned for updates.

Ali’s Cream is an ice cream shop located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Canongate. Reviews paint a mixed picture, with some praising the quality of the ice cream and the friendly atmosphere, while others express disappointment with the service and the small scoop sizes. Several reviewers mention the chewy texture of the ice cream, attributing it to the unique preparation method. A recurring complaint is the lack of free samples, with some customers feeling that the staff were unwilling to offer them. Despite these criticisms, many customers highlight the delicious flavors and the overall enjoyable experience. One review specifically mentions the lokma (Turkish donut balls) as being particularly good. The shop’s location and connection to a rug business (loloirugs.com) add a unique element to its story. However, the limited availability of information and the inconsistent customer experiences make it difficult to fully assess the shop’s overall quality and value.

Over Langshaw Farmhouse Ice Cream is a luxury ice cream business located on a farm in the Scottish Borders, known for its farm-fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Reviews highlight a delicious range of ice cream options, including some with whisky, and a friendly, quick service. Some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in opening hours, but overall, customers praise the quality and taste of the ice cream. The business emphasizes natural ingredients and sustainable practices, utilizing wind power from a turbine on the farm. They offer a diverse selection of flavors, often inspired by seasonal produce, and provide online ordering with local delivery options. The business has grown thanks to a LEADER grant, which supported equipment upgrades and expansion of production facilities.

Artisan Gelato is an ice cream shop with multiple locations in Oregon, offering handcrafted gelato to customers. They emphasize quality ingredients and a delightful customer experience. The business promotes the idea that "Great friends deserve great gelato," suggesting a focus on social enjoyment and sharing a positive experience. They provide gift cards, allowing customers to spread the enjoyment of their gelato. Reviews consistently highlight the friendly staff, delicious flavors (such as pistachio and red velvet), and the overall enjoyable atmosphere. Some reviewers mention the unique flavor combinations and the freshness of the gelato. However, a few reviews note that some flavors may not be as intense as expected and that the shop can get busy.

S Luca of Musselburgh is a renowned ice cream business with a rich history spanning over 100 years. The company’s heritage is deeply rooted in a family tradition, originating with the grandfather of the current operators. They are dedicated to crafting luxury dairy ice cream, upholding a commitment to quality and a passion for using premium ingredients. Reviews highlight both the delicious ice cream and the friendly service, but also mention occasional long queues and inconsistencies in ice cream quality. Some customers have noted that the ice cream can be overly sweet. Despite these occasional issues, the majority of reviews praise S Luca as a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers. The business is known for its traditional approach and commitment to using high-quality ingredients. A notable incident involving a customer's order being incorrect and a subsequent apology from the staff demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction. The shop is a popular local spot, often busy, particularly during warmer weather. The website emphasizes the company's long-standing tradition and dedication to crafting luxury dairy ice cream.

Joelato is a luxury gelato business specializing in authentic Italian gelato, known for its unique and high-quality flavors. Initially operating with home deliveries, the company has expanded to include two retail locations – one at Bonnie & Wild food market in Edinburgh – and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. They’ve garnered a strong reputation for exceptional gelato, praised by customers for its creamy texture, innovative flavor combinations, and dedication to traditional Italian techniques. Reviews consistently highlight the exceptional quality, unique flavors, and efficient service. The gelato is made in-house from scratch, adhering to authentic Italian techniques, with a restricted air content for a dense, silky-smooth texture. A strong emphasis is placed on locally sourced ingredients, including milk from Grahams Family Dairy, raspberries from Mcintryre Fruits, and honey from Ralia Estate. Joelato offers a diverse range of gelato and sorbet flavors, including classic options like pistachio and chocolate, as well as signature creations like Ferdi’s Flavour (salted honey with honeycomb) and a selection of dairy-free sorbets. The business has grown from a home delivery service to two retail locations, demonstrating strong customer demand.

Joelato is a premium ice cream shop in Edinburgh, renowned for its authentic Italian gelato and commitment to quality. Founded by Joe Shea after studying gelato making in Florence, the shop utilizes traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients, including milk from Grahams Family Dairy and berries from local farms. They offer a diverse range of flavors, from classic pistachio and hazelnut to innovative combinations like salted honey and blackcurrant mascarpone, with vegan options available. Customers consistently praise the gelato’s exceptional taste, creamy texture, and friendly service. The shop’s dedication to using fresh, natural ingredients and its Italian heritage create a unique and indulgent experience. While some reviews mention occasional long queues, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many describing Joelato as "one of the best ice cream parlors in Edinburgh."