A Quest for the Best Ice Cream in Paris
Ice cream and gelato are incredibly popular in Paris, despite being a city renowned for its mouthwatering pastries. During my study abroad stint in the city of lights this spring, I diligently searching far and wide for the best ice cream and gelato in Paris (in the name of research), and have narrowed down the list to my top 4 favorites. If you ever find yourself in Paris, make sure you grab a cone, sit by the Seine, and bask in the glory of all things sugary and delightful.
Grom (Gelato)
I have a soft spot for Grom, as it was the first gelato I had in Paris. Found in the 4th arrondissement, Grom prides itself on using only the finest ingredients, with no artificial additives, and they offer gluten-free cones. The quality is apparent—the consistency is creamy without melting, and the flavors are not overbearing. Grom is the perfect place for an all-natural gelato—check out the hazelnut (Nocciola) and Pistachio flavors!
Amorino (Gelato)
Okay, I know there’s also one in Chicago, but Amorino never fails to hit the spot, and truly deserves a place on this list. Amorino is everywhere in Paris, and is a great option for consistently high-quality gelato, with a very large range of flavors, including vegan options. For an extra cost (and a more authentic French experience!), you can add a macaron in flavors ranging from your basic vanilla and chocolate, to pistachio and mango. And, as an added perk, your gelato is generously scooped into a beautiful rose shape. My personal favorite is the “Inimitable” a yummy chocolate hazelnut combo that is everything you love about Nutella, stuffed into a cone.
Pozzetto (Gelato)
I’ve been to Pozzetto more times than I care to admit. With storefronts in Le Marais, I always find myself going back when I am in the area. Other than being extremely high quality (I have heard Pozzetto referred to as the best gelato in Paris), the staff is incredibly personable and friendly, their portions are generous, and they welcome and recommend sampling their incredible flavors. Since the flavoring is pure and subtle, and not overly dense, a couple of scoops should do the trick. My favorite combination of flavors is Chocolat Noisette, Milk, and Pistachio, and they also serve a sublime Stracciatella and Yogurt flavor.
Berthillion (Ice Cream)
Widely known as the best ice cream in Paris, Berthillon is a tourist haven and a must for anyone visiting Paris. Located on Île Saint-Louis, the shop serves up over 70 flavors, including Gingerbread, Tiramisu, Whiskey Coffee, and Mint Leaf. I opted for a basic Chocolate, and, while the size was rather small, it was incredibly dense, rich, and packed with pure flavor. Unfortunately, samples are not allowed at Berthillon, so it’s worth it to go back multiple times to try a variety of flavors.
Feature image via. All other photos courtesy of Sima Shah.
