The Absolute Best Gelato in Austin [Updated 2024]

Have you ever craved a smooth and creamy treat that transports you straight to Italy? Well, search no more – I've reviewed eight of Austin's finest gelaterias and narrowed down the top contenders.

From velvety pistachio to indulgent dark chocolate, these gelato havens will satisfy your sweet tooth with every luscious spoonful. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the streets of Austin as we uncover the hidden gems serving up the most delightful and refreshing gelato in town.

So, grab a spoon and let's dive right in!

Cannone Gelato

Highlights
Best gelato in Austin
Real ingredients used
Great flavors

As soon as I walked into Cannone Gelato, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly made gelato filled the air, enticing my taste buds and igniting my excitement.

The first thing that caught my attention was the fact that Cannone Gelato is known for serving the best gelato in Austin. And let me tell you, they certainly live up to that reputation. Every spoonful of their gelato is pure bliss.

One thing that sets Cannone Gelato apart from the rest is their commitment to using real ingredients. From the perfectly ripe fruits to the rich chocolate, you can taste the quality in every bite. The gelato here is made with love and attention to detail.

The array of flavors at Cannone Gelato is simply mind-blowing. From classic favorites like pistachio and stracciatella to unique creations like lavender honey and bourbon salted caramel, there's something for everyone. Each flavor is so well-crafted that it feels like a work of art in your mouth.

But what truly impressed me was the balance of flavors. Everything was just right – not too sweet, not too overpowering. It was a harmonious symphony of taste that left me craving for more.

If you haven't tried Cannone Gelato yet, do yourself a favor and go. Trust me, you won't regret it. Your taste buds will thank you for introducing them to this little piece of gelato heaven.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Austin.

Gati Ice Cream

Highlights
Gluten-free and dairy-free options
Fantastic Cookie monster ice cream
Delicious vegan ice cream flavors
Amazing pandan flavored cake with coconut frosting

Walking into Gati Ice Cream, I was immediately greeted by a wide array of flavors that seemed to be bursting with creativity. With their promise of gluten-free and dairy-free options, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first scoop that caught my eye was the Cookie Monster ice cream. As I took my first bite, I could taste the rich, velvety texture that melted in my mouth. It was an explosion of flavors, with chunks of cookies mixed into the creamy base. It was truly a delight for the senses.

For those seeking a dairy-free option, Gati Ice Cream also offers a range of vegan flavors. I sampled their vegan ice cream flavors and was pleasantly surprised. The flavors were just as creamy and delicious as the traditional options, with a variety of unique and enticing choices.

But what really stood out for me at Gati Ice Cream was their pandan flavored cake with coconut frosting. The cake was light and moist, with a subtle yet distinct flavor of pandan. The coconut frosting added a creamy and tropical twist, making it a perfect pairing.

Overall, Gati Ice Cream proved to be a haven for gelato lovers of all dietary preferences. With their wide selection of flavors and their commitment to quality, it's clear why they deserve to be included in the conversation for the best gelato in Austin.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Round Rock.

Jim Jim's Water Ice

Highlights
Diverse flavors
Great price
Phenomenal taste

Walking into Jim Jim's Water Ice, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant and cheerful atmosphere. The smell of freshly made gelato wafted through the air, instantly igniting my taste buds with anticipation. As I approached the counter, I was pleasantly surprised by their extensive selection of diverse flavors. From classic staples like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like lavender honey and rosemary olive oil, Jim Jim's Water Ice truly had something for everyone.

One of the first things that stood out to me was the great price. Unlike some other gelato places in Austin, Jim Jim's Water Ice offers generous scoops at a very reasonable cost. It's a place where you can indulge in your favorite treat without breaking the bank.

Now, let's talk about the most important aspect, the taste. Oh boy, was I blown away! The gelato at Jim Jim's Water Ice had a phenomenal taste that transported me to gelato heaven. Each spoonful was smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It was evident that they used high-quality ingredients, and their attention to detail was evident in every bite.

To say that I was impressed with Jim Jim's Water Ice would be an understatement. From the diverse flavors to the great price and, of course, the phenomenal taste, this place is a gem in the Austin gelato scene. If you find yourself craving a delightful frozen treat, Jim Jim's Water Ice is definitely worth a visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Pflugerville.

Lick Honest Ice Creams

Highlights
Unique flavor selection
Lavender-scented ambiance
Long line indicates quality
Option to try flavors before choosing

Walking into Lick Honest Ice Creams is like entering a whimsical world of frozen delight. The scent of lavender fills the air, creating an atmosphere that feels both calming and exciting. It’s clear that they take the art of creating gelato seriously, as evidenced by the long line that stretches out the door. However, don't let the line discourage you - trust me, it's worth the wait.

One of the things that sets Lick Honest Ice Creams apart is their unique flavor selection. Forget your standard chocolate and vanilla. Here, you'll find innovative flavors like Roasted Beets & Fresh Mint, Horchata, and Cilantro Lime. Each spoonful is a journey for your taste buds, as you savor the surprising combinations.

What I love about Lick Honest Ice Creams is the option to try flavors before choosing. The friendly staff encourages you to sample as many flavors as you'd like, ensuring that you find the perfect gelato for your palate. This personalized experience adds an extra level of satisfaction to your visit.

With their commitment to using locally sourced, honest ingredients, Lick Honest Ice Creams not only delivers a mouthwatering treat but also supports the community. It's no wonder this gelateria has gained such a loyal and enthusiastic following in Austin.

So, if you're looking for a gelato experience that will leave you feeling delighted and inspired, I highly recommend stopping by Lick Honest Ice Creams. Get ready to indulge in flavors that will tickle your taste buds and make you fall in love with gelato all over again.

You might also want to check out the best tattoo artist in Austin.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Highlights
reliable ice cream
unique flavors
gooey butter cake
lemon and blueberry parfait

Let me tell you, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams definitely lives up to the hype when it comes to gelato in Austin. From the moment I stepped into their cozy shop, I could tell they take their craft seriously.

One thing that stood out to me about Jeni's is their reliable ice cream. You can always count on them to deliver a creamy, smooth, and satisfying treat. Each bite was velvety and indulgent, melting in my mouth with every spoonful.

But it wasn't just the quality that impressed me. Jeni's also offers a range of unique flavors that are a real game-changer. Forget the standard vanilla and chocolate – this place pushes boundaries and pulls it off successfully. I had the pleasure of trying their gooey butter cake gelato, and oh boy, it was a decadent delight. The rich, buttery flavor with hints of cinnamon and a gooey texture truly made it a standout.

Another favorite of mine was their lemon and blueberry parfait. The tangy lemon gelato paired perfectly with the sweet and tart blueberry swirls. It was like a refreshing burst of summer in my spoon, and I couldn't get enough of it.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams has managed to bring a new level of artistry to the gelato scene in Austin. With their reliable ice cream, unique flavors, and delightful combinations like the gooey butter cake and lemon and blueberry parfait, they have certainly earned their spot in the list of the best gelato options in Austin.

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in Austin.

Manolis Ice Cream Pastries & Cakes

Highlights
Family owned & operated
Pet friendly
Beautiful outdoor area
Great ice cream
Inviting atmosphere

From the moment I set foot in Manolis Ice Cream Pastries & Cakes, it was clear that this place was something special. As a family owned and operated establishment, you could feel the warmth and love that went into creating every gelato flavor.

What I enjoyed most about Manolis was their attention to detail and the inviting atmosphere. The outdoor area, with its colorful umbrellas and comfortable seating, was the perfect spot to enjoy a scoop or two. Plus, the fact that they are pet friendly makes it even better - because gelato is best enjoyed with your furry friends by your side!

But let's talk about the star of the show - the gelato itself. Oh my, it was incredible. The flavors were rich and creamy, and each bite was like a little slice of heaven. From classics like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous flavors like lavender and sea salt caramel, there was something for everyone's taste buds. I couldn't resist trying a few different flavors, and I was not disappointed with any of them.

Overall, my experience at Manolis Ice Cream Pastries & Cakes was top-notch. The combination of their great ice cream, beautiful outdoor area, and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in Austin for gelato lovers. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat or just want to enjoy a delightful afternoon, Manolis is the place to be.

You might also want to check out the best tattoo artist in Round Rock.

Dolce Neve Gelato

Highlights
True gelato in foodie district
Great sorbet flavors
Limited seating space
Limited parking
Polite and helpful staff

Let me start by saying that Dolce Neve Gelato truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best gelato spots in Austin. Located in the heart of the foodie district, this charming little gelateria brings a taste of Italy to the Lone Star State.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of freshly churned gelato. The display case was a sight to behold, showcasing a tempting array of flavors. From classics like Pistachio and Hazelnut to more adventurous options like Lavender Honey and Goat Cheese with Fig, Dolce Neve offers something for every palate.

I decided to try their sorbet and was blown away by the intense, natural fruit flavors. The Raspberry and Mango sorbets were tart and refreshing, making them the perfect choice on a hot Austin afternoon.

One thing to note is that seating is quite limited, so be prepared to grab your gelato to-go or find a spot outside if the weather permits. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in this bustling neighborhood, so plan accordingly.

But what truly sets Dolce Neve Gelato apart is their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Not only were they polite and welcoming, but they were also more than happy to guide me through the extensive flavor selection and offer recommendations based on my preferences.

Overall, if you're in Austin and craving true Italian gelato, Dolce Neve Gelato is a must-visit. With its delightful flavors and warm, cheerful atmosphere, it's no wonder this gem has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

You might also want to check out the best tattoo artist in Cedar Park.

Gelato Paradiso

Highlights
Creamy gelato
Interesting flavors
Sample before buying
Vegan options
Quick service

As soon as I walked through the door, I was enveloped by the captivating aroma of freshly made gelato. The creamy texture of their gelato was nothing short of heavenly; it simply melted on my tongue, leaving me craving for more.

Gelato Paradiso offers a fascinating assortment of flavors, from classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique and innovative options like lavender and olive oil. Each flavor was crafted with precision and care, creating an explosion of taste in every bite. It was truly an adventure for my taste buds!

What really impressed me about Gelato Paradiso was their dedication to customer satisfaction. They encourage visitors to sample their flavors before buying, ensuring that you're able to choose the perfect gelato for your palate. Their friendly staff was more than willing to provide helpful recommendations based on my preferences and narrowing down my choices.

For those with dietary restrictions, Gelato Paradiso also offers a delightful selection of vegan options. I was pleasantly surprised to find that their vegan gelato had the same creamy texture and decadent flavor as their traditional offerings. It's a game-changer for gelato lovers who follow a plant-based lifestyle.

On top of the mouthwatering gelato, I was highly satisfied with the quick service at Gelato Paradiso. The staff efficiently scooped my chosen flavors, ensuring minimal waiting time for my gelato fix.

Overall, Gelato Paradiso is a must-visit destination for any gelato aficionado. Their creamy gelato, interesting flavors, opportunity to sample before purchasing, vegan options, and quick service make for an exceptional experience. Trust me, once you've tasted their gelato, you'll be counting down the minutes until your next visit.

You might also want to check out the best bbq in Austin.