Are you looking for a sweet escape from the heat of Tbilisi? Look no further than the city's top ice cream shops. With a wide variety of flavors and unique twists on classic treats, these shops are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here are the top 5 ice cream shops to visit in Tbilisi:
1. Amorino
If you're looking for a classic gelato experience, Amorino is the place to go. With locations all over Europe, this Italian chain has made its way to Tbilisi. Their gelato is made with all-natural ingredients and comes in a variety of flavors. But what sets Amorino apart is their signature flower-shaped cones. You can choose as many flavors as you want and have them arranged in a beautiful flower shape. It's almost too pretty to eat…almost.
Amorino is located in the heart of Tbilisi, near the famous Freedom Square. The shop has a modern and elegant design, with white walls, marble countertops, and a large glass display case filled with colorful gelato flavors. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they're happy to let you sample as many flavors as you want before making your final decision.
One of the most popular flavors at Amorino is the hazelnut gelato, which is rich and creamy with a subtle nutty flavor. But if you're feeling adventurous, try the mango or passion fruit gelato for a tropical twist. And of course, don't forget to get your gelato in a flower cone for the ultimate Instagram-worthy photo.
2. Cafe Leila
For a unique twist on ice cream, head to Cafe Leila. This cozy cafe in the heart of Tbilisi serves up homemade ice cream with Persian flavors. Think saffron, rosewater, and pistachio. They also have a variety of vegan options, including a delicious vegan chocolate ice cream. But what really sets Cafe Leila apart is their ice cream sandwiches. They use homemade cookies and fill them with your choice of ice cream flavor. It's the perfect treat on a hot day.
Cafe Leila is located in the trendy neighborhood of Sololaki, just a short walk from the famous Rustaveli Avenue. The cafe has a cozy and eclectic vibe, with mismatched chairs and tables, colorful artwork on the walls, and a small outdoor seating area. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and they're happy to make recommendations if you're having trouble deciding on a flavor.
One of the most popular ice cream flavors at Cafe Leila is the saffron and pistachio, which is creamy and nutty with a subtle floral flavor. But if you're looking for something sweeter, try the rosewater ice cream, which is fragrant and refreshing. And of course, don't forget to try one of their ice cream sandwiches, which are made with homemade cookies that are soft and chewy with a slight crunch.
3. Luca Polare
If you're looking for a local favorite, Luca Polare is the place to go. This Georgian ice cream chain has locations all over Tbilisi and is known for its high-quality ingredients. They use fresh milk and cream from local farms and have a wide variety of flavors, from classic chocolate to more unique options like blackberry and lavender. They also have a selection of sorbets for those looking for a dairy-free option.
Luca Polare has multiple locations in Tbilisi, including one in the trendy neighborhood of Vake and another in the bustling Old Town. The shops have a bright and modern design, with colorful walls, playful graphics, and a large display case filled with colorful ice cream flavors. The staff is friendly and efficient, and they're happy to let you sample as many flavors as you want before making your final decision.
One of the most popular ice cream flavors at Luca Polare is the pistachio, which is creamy and nutty with a subtle sweetness. But if you're feeling adventurous, try the blackberry and lavender, which is floral and fruity with a slight tang. And of course, don't forget to get your ice cream in a waffle cone, which is crispy and sweet with a slight vanilla flavor.
4. IceLab
For a futuristic ice cream experience, head to IceLab. This liquid nitrogen ice cream shop is unlike anything you've ever seen before. They use liquid nitrogen to freeze the ice cream right in front of you, creating a cloud of smoke that's as cool as it is delicious. They have a variety of flavors and toppings to choose from, and you can even create your own custom flavor. It's a fun and unique experience that's perfect for kids and adults alike.
IceLab is located in the trendy neighborhood of Vera, just a short walk from the famous Rustaveli Avenue. The shop has a sleek and modern design, with white walls, stainless steel countertops, and a large glass display case filled with colorful ice cream flavors. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they're happy to explain the process of making liquid nitrogen ice cream if you're curious.
One of the most popular ice cream flavors at IceLab is the Oreo, which is rich and creamy with chunks of crunchy cookie mixed in. But if you're feeling creative, try creating your own custom flavor. You can choose from a variety of bases, including milk, yogurt, and coconut milk, and then add your choice of mix-ins, like fresh fruit, candy, or nuts. And of course, don't forget to watch as your ice cream is made right in front of you, with a cloud of smoke that's as mesmerizing as it is delicious.
5. Caffeine
For a more upscale ice cream experience, head to Caffeine. This stylish cafe in the heart of Tbilisi serves up homemade ice cream with a twist. They have classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, but also more unique options like black sesame and matcha. But what really sets Caffeine apart is their presentation. They serve their ice cream in a glass jar with a wooden spoon, making it feel like a luxurious treat. It's the perfect place to cool off and indulge in something sweet.
Caffeine is located in the trendy neighborhood of Vera, just a short walk from the famous Rustaveli Avenue. The cafe has a sleek and modern design, with white walls, marble countertops, and a large glass display case filled with colorful ice cream flavors. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they're happy to make recommendations if you're having trouble deciding on a flavor.
One of the most popular ice cream flavors at Caffeine is the black sesame, which is nutty and slightly savory with a hint of sweetness. But if you're looking for something more refreshing, try the matcha ice cream, which is creamy and earthy with a slight bitterness. And of course, don't forget to enjoy your ice cream in a glass jar, which makes it feel like a luxurious treat.
No matter which ice cream shop you choose, you're sure to find a sweet treat to cool you off on a hot day in Tbilisi. So grab a cone (or a flower-shaped gelato), sit back, and enjoy the flavors of this beautiful city.