With the onset of sweltering, 30-feels-like-40-degree heat waves now a normal part of a Toronto summer, we're doing everything we can to keep cool. When it's even too hot to post up with a cocktail on Toronto's best patios, there's only one failsafe solution to chill out — God's air conditioning, ice cream.
In summer, nearly every Toronto neighbourhood boasts great ice cream. Whether they're fan-favourite shops open year-round, or seasonal pop-ups, these spots serve scoops in flavours that run the gamut from fun and fruity to chocolatey and indulgent.
I don't do dairy, but in Toronto, I'm spoiled with great dairy-free ice cream and gelato options, so I never have to miss out on my favourite sweet summer treat. I've rounded up my favourite dairy-free ice cream spots that I trust to give me a perfect scoop every time.
1. Honey's Ice Cream
Multiple locations
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The gold standard of vegan ice cream in Toronto, Honey's blends cashew cream and coconut for their ultra-luxurious dairy-free base. They operate out of their petite Dundas shop and newly opened Queen East location, but you can find their pints stocked across the city and the GTA in breweries (Blood Brothers, Burdock), grocery stores (Fiesta Farms, Summerhill Market) and some of our favourite shops (Good Cheese, Good Egg). Keep an eye on their Instagram for limited-time flavours, like Brookies and Cream or Raisin Bread Toast. Order fast — they sell out quickly.
2. Death in Venice Gelato
1418 Dundas St. W.
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With both dairy and dairy-free options, Death in Venice is your one-stop shop for a cold summer treat. Gawk at "mad scientist" Kaya Ogruce's award-winning gelato being made in their lab, then select from creative, rotating flavours like passionfruit and lemongrass; blackberry earl grey; or strawberry lemon basil.
3. The Roasted Nut
768 Queen St. W.
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This cozy café makes its gelato from roasted nuts and fresh nut butters, steps from Trinity Bellwoods. Pair a cup with their famous iced cashew butter latte; it's an equally indulgent warm weather treat.
4. On Third Thought
6 Markham St.
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Pair vino and gelato (and even boozy gelato) at On Third Thought, a vegan, allergen‑friendly dessert and wine bar on Queen West. Their menu typically features around a dozen rotating options like Strawberry Shortcake, alcoholic Aperol Spritz and Brownie Batter.
