Istanbul Ice Cream Guide: 10 Must-Try Gelato & Dondurma Spots
When it comes to summer evenings in Istanbul, refreshing walks along the coast and nostalgic streets, one of the greatest pleasures that comes to mind is undoubtedly ice cream. However, ice cream in Istanbul is not just a sweet escape during the summer months; it is also a different kind of pleasure in winter, whether walking down the street with a cup of coffee or by the sea. While there are dozens of different ice cream shops scattered across the city, some establishments have become an integral part of the city's culture due to their history, craftsmanship, and unique flavours. So, where to eat ice cream in Istanbul? Where is the best ice cream in Istanbul? Let's explore together!
1. Meşhur Dondurmacı Ali Usta – Moda (Kadıköy)
When it comes to Moda, Ali Usta is undoubtedly the symbol of ice cream culture. Serving at the same address since 1969, he has become an icon not only for Kadıköy but for all of Istanbul. This place, which has remained unchanged for over half a century, is one of Istanbul's most consistent ice cream parlours.
Among Ali Usta's most beloved flavours are gumdrop ice cream, caramel almond, Antep pistachio, cherry, and classic chocolate. The balance of consistency in milk-based varieties and the intense aroma in fruit-based ice creams are his signature. After a walk along the Moda coastline, enjoying an Ali Usta cone in the evening breeze is the perfect way to experience the spirit of the neighbourhood. Especially in the summer months, queues can get long after 8 p.m.; the best times to visit are before sunset.
Address: Moda Cad. No:176/B, Kadıköy.
- Open until late at night during the summer.
Why is it on the list? Because it represents the ‘continuity and trust’ of ice cream culture in Istanbul. It is the first name that comes to mind when you think of Moda ice cream.
Source: Kadıköy
2. Yaşar Usta’nın Sobre ve Dondurması – Bostancı & 4. Levent
For most people, the answer to the question ‘Where can you find the best sorbet in Istanbul?’ is simple: Yaşar Usta. This legendary brand, which opened its first branch in Bostancı, now serves customers in various locations, including 4. Levent.
What sets Yaşar Usta apart is that his ice creams truly capture the real taste of fruit. In fruit sorbets like lemon, blackberry, cherry, and orange, the acidity, sugar content, and freshness of the fruit are perfectly preserved. Classic milk-based flavours like pistachio and chocolate are also very popular. The Bostancı branch is particularly known for staying open late into the night; it’s a must-visit for those who want to enjoy ice cream after a walk along the shore.
Adress: Konaklar, Akçam Cd 17/F, 34330 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Why did it make the list? Because it’s a classic that established the concept of “sorbet” in Istanbul and never compromises on ingredients.
Source: Time Out
3. Mini Dondurma – Bebek
A tiny shop on the coast of Bebek: Mini Dondurma. Living up to its name, this shop has been serving customers at the same location since 1968. With just a small counter and a few employees, it keeps a decades-old tradition alive.
Here, the portions are small but the flavours are rich. The favourites among regulars include croquant, walnut, caramel, and plain milk varieties. The small portion size is actually an advantage for those who want to try every flavour. Enjoying the Bosphorus breeze with a Mini Ice Cream cone in hand while strolling along the Bebek coastline is one of Istanbul’s most enjoyable summer rituals.
Address: Cevdet Paşa Cad. No:38/A, Bebek.
Why is it on the list? Because it’s a true “neighbourhood ice cream shop” that reflects the spirit of the district and has been passed down from generation to generation.
Source: Tripadvisor
4. Cremeria Milano – Bebek, Caddebostan, Cihangir, Çengelköy…
One of the chains that best adapts Italian-style gelato to Istanbul: Cremeria Milano. The brand, which first became known on the Bebek coast, now also has locations in Caddebostan, Cihangir, Akaretler and Çengelköy.
Among its standout flavours are hazelnut (nocciola), stracciatella, salted caramel, and pistachio. They are also known for maintaining quality standards in their milk-based and fruit-based varieties. The Bebek branch is particularly ideal for a visit after a seaside stroll.
Adress: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. 43/D, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it is one of the rare ice cream shops in Istanbul that has expanded but hasn't compromised on quality.
5. MUÀ Gelatieri d’Italia – Akaretler & Yeniköy
One of Istanbul's most popular gelato spots in recent years, MUÀ operates on a principle of completely fresh production. Here, the gelato is never kept for more than 3–4 days, meaning everything is prepared daily.
The Akaretler branch stays open until 1:00 a.m. during the summer months. This is a great advantage, especially for those looking for a cool treat late at night. The Yeniköy branch on the coast is particularly busy on weekends. The dessert menu features classics as well as their own signature creations. For example, Muatella (a special flavour made with hazelnut cream) is a favourite among regulars. Their seasonal sorbets are also quite impressive.
Adress: Yeniköy, Köybaşı Cd. 126/B, 34464 Sarıyer/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it is the brand that best represents the modern, fresh production-focused gelato culture in Istanbul.
6. Girandola – Arnavutköy
Located on the Arnavutköy coast, Girandola is known for its Italian-style ice cream made from real fruit. It is an integral part of the neighbourhood's coastal walking culture. It can get crowded in the late afternoon, especially in the summer, but walking along the Bosphorus with a Girandola cone in your hand is a special treat in Istanbul in the summer.
Adress: Arnavutköy, Bebek Arnavutköy Cd No:109, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it’s one of the boutique spots that has come to symbolise Arnavutköy with its ice cream.
Source: Tripadvisor
7. Prinkipo / Tarihi Roma Dondurması – Büyükada
Almost everyone who visits Istanbul's islands has the same first stop: Tarihi Roma Dondurması (Prinkipo) in Büyükada. Located near the pier and offering the same great taste for years, it is practically part of the island's culture.
This shop, known since the early 1960s, is famous for its ice cream flavours such as cinnamon, pistachio, croquant, and cherry. During the summer months, it becomes the most well-known stop on island tours, so queues can get long, but service moves quickly.
Adress: Nizam, Şht. Recep Koç Cd. No:1 A, 34970 Adalar/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it has become a symbol of island culture and is one of Istanbul's oldest ice cream shops.
Source: Time Out
8. Vero Gelato – Moda, Caddebostan, Bostancı
Vero Gelato is a brand that has been talked about a lot in the Anatolian side, especially in recent years. It has branches in Moda, Caddebostan and Bostancı.
Among the standout flavours are fior di latte (plain milk), chocolate, salted caramel, as well as seasonal flavours such as blackberry, strawberry and lemon sorbet. All varieties feature a rich texture and natural ingredients. The Moda branch has become one of the most popular spots among young people.
Adress: Caddebostan, Bağdat Cad. No:264, 34728 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it is one of the leading brands offering European-standard gelato in the Anatolian side.
9. Dondurmacci – Nişantaşı (Şişli)
Located in Nişantaşı, Dondurmacci is a boutique ice cream shop that stands out for its creativity beyond classic flavours. The menu occasionally features flavours inspired by molecular gastronomy. For example, at one point, unusual flavours such as ‘wasabi’ and ‘lavender’ were the talk of the town.
While classic flavours are always available, the menu is ideal for those seeking constant innovation. Checking the display case is a must to discover the latest flavours.
Adress: Teşvikiye, Şakayık Sk. 11/E, 34365 Şişli/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it’s the go-to spot in Istanbul for innovative and experimental ice cream flavours.
Source: Tripadvisor
10. Lú Gelato – Nişantaşı & Ataşehir
One of Istanbul's new generation gelato makers, Lú Gelato is making a name for itself, especially with its Nişantaşı branch. Here you can find both classic Italian-style gelato and vegan and low-calorie options.
Among the favourites are chocolate chip flavours made with red fruits, creamy classics, and light options. The Ataşehir branch, meanwhile, attracts regulars from the Anatolian side of the city.
Adress: Atatürk, Ataşehir Blv. Ata - 3 Plaza D:3-1 Dükkan:20, 34758 Ataşehir/İstanbul
Why is it on the list? Because it is a brand that follows Istanbul's modern ice cream trends and offers healthy options.
Source: Tripadvisor
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