What is gelato, anyway? The Italian treat is similar to ice cream, but it uses less cream and more milk in a slower churning process that introduces less air to the mix—producing a softer and denser product. And there is no shortage of local gelato shops in Vancouver. Here are a few of our favourites.

Dolce Amore

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A Little Italy staple for the last 20-plus years, Dolce Amore has the bragging rights of being Vancouver’s first grass-fed gelato shop. Unfortunately, due to a fire nearly a year ago, the family-run spot had to close the doors at its Commercial Drive location. But fret not—it’s still serving up scoops and boozy affogatos at its North Van outpost.

Address: 113 2nd Street West, North Vancouver

Motoretta Gelato

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If you’ve ever found yourself by the water in Coal Harbour on a sunny day, you’ve likely spotted the long lines outside Motoretta Gelato. This popular spot is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its central location and the convenience of its gelato cart that frequently appears at local events. Tip: try the vegan pistachio.

Address: 1001 West Cordova Street

Passione Gelato Artigianale

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Tucked into the floor level of Parq is a small gelato shop with big flavours. Passione Gelato Artigianale produces micro-batch gelato and sorbetto; it is owned and operated by Salvatore Boccarossa, a Naples native who honed his skills at Carpigiani Gelato University in Italy before gifting Vancouver with his craft.

Address: 55 Smithe Street

La Casa Gelato

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Craving literally anything? La Casa Gelato probably has something for you. This East Van shop holds the Guinness World Record for “Most Commercially Available Flavours,” with its bright pink walls housing an impressive 238 flavours—from classic chocolate varieties to the unique Pumpkin Cheesecake or Nerdy Cotton Candy. While not the best gelato in the city, it is certainly the most unique.

Address: 1033 Venables Street

Amato Gelato/Mario’s Gelati

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A fourth-generation-owned cafe, Amato Gelato has been in business for over 80 years. The Olympic Village spot features a display case full of bright gelato crafted from BC local fruit, dairy, and eggs from nearby farms. Also in Olympic Village is Mario’s Gelati, which is under the same ownership (read: equally good gelato). Here you can get scoops to go or pints to take home. Try the coffee or green tea flavours.

Address: 78 East 1st Avenue (Amato Gelato); 88 East 1st Avenue (Mario’s Gelati)