Brussels isn't primarily known for ice cream, but it has some genuinely excellent gelaterias and ice cream shops scattered across its neighbourhoods. These eight are worth the trip.
- Franklin (Rue du Marché Aux Herbes, Centre) — ice cream served in small edible pots to reduce waste. One of the more environmentally conscious options in the city.
- Nanouk (Rue de Moscou, Saint-Gilles) — 100% natural and eco-responsible sorbets and ice creams. The flagship 'frisko' flavour is a local institution.
- Bargello (Place de la Liberté, Centre) — an Italian gelateria with classic flavours: caffè antico, pistachio, nocciola, crema toscana. Also excellent mojito sorbets.
- Gaston (Quai aux Briques, Centre) — widely considered the top artisanal ice cream parlour in Brussels. Also does waffles, pancakes, and coffee.
- Cones Brussels (Avenue de l'Hippodrome, Ixelles) — a New York-based brand with unconventional flavours: sweet potato, corn, quince sorbet. Genuinely interesting.
- Zizi (Rue de la Mutualité, Uccle) — over 70 years old, 100% natural and colouring-free, with options for allergies and diabetes. A neighbourhood institution.
- Frédéric Blondeel (Rue de Ganshoren, Koekelberg) — primarily a master chocolatier, but the ice cream counter is exceptional: straciatella, almond praline, Madagascar vanilla, rum raisin.
- Cup 28 (Rue du Bailli, Centre) — ice cream served in bubble waffles. Flavours include vanilla, praline, and speculoos. The format alone is worth trying.
Brussels in summer is best explored slowly — on foot, with something cold to hold. This list should keep you busy across most of the city's central neighbourhoods.
