In the scorching heat of Toronto's summer, finding a refreshing vegan ice cream can be a challenging task. But fear not, ice cream enthusiasts! This city has a hidden gem for those seeking plant-based delights. I've scoured the streets and discovered five extraordinary ice cream shops that will satisfy even the most discerning vegan's cravings. Get ready to indulge in a sweet revolution!
A Plant-Based Paradise
One of the most exciting aspects of Toronto's vegan ice cream scene is the sheer variety. Honey's, a plant-based haven, offers a delightful escape from the sorbet monotony. Founded by Ashley Wittig, this shop has two locations, each brimming with 12 rotating flavors and a freezer stocked with over 25 options. From Frosty & Fries to Rainbow Creamsicle, Honey's is a flavor explosion. What makes this place truly special is its commitment to plant-based goodness, ensuring vegans can enjoy every scoop without a hint of dairy.
A City-Wide Sensation
Bang Bang Ice Cream, located on the trendy Ossington strip, is more than just a cool hangout spot. While it's famous for its non-vegan options, the shop also boasts a rotating menu of vegan flavors. Mint chocolate chip, almost everything blueberry cookie, and sour passionfruit sorbet are just a few of the treats that will make your taste buds dance. The lines down the block are a testament to its popularity, but the vegan options are a delightful surprise for those seeking a dairy-free delight.
A Gelato Revolution
Death in Venice, a gelato shop with a decade-long legacy, is a hidden gem in Little Portugal. Founded by Kaya Ogruce, a chemical engineer-turned-gelato-expert, this shop offers some of the city's most unique flavors. The plant-based options, such as coconut and pandan, blueberry lavender lemonade, and chocolate and sour cherry, are a testament to its innovation. This gelato shop is a must-visit for those seeking a truly memorable vegan experience.
East End Delights
Brett's Ice Cream, nestled in the Beaches neighborhood, is a plant-based ice cream lover's paradise. With a selection of vegan flavors alongside dairy options, this shop is a perfect weekend stroll companion. Cookies and cream, vanilla, and avocado lime sorbet are just a few of the treats that will make your day. Brett's is a hidden gem for those seeking a refreshing vegan treat in the East End.
A Gelato Cafe Experience
Mizzica Gelateria and Cafe, with two locations in Toronto, is a gelato lover's dream. Founded by Denise and Paolo, this shop brings the artisanal gelato from their hometowns of Sicily and Abruzzo to Toronto. The plant-based options, such as dark chocolate, limone, and strawberry gelato, are a testament to its commitment to quality. The lines down the block, especially in the spring and summer months, are a testament to its popularity, but the vegan options are a delightful surprise for those seeking a dairy-free gelato experience.
In my opinion, Toronto's vegan ice cream scene is a testament to the city's culinary diversity. These five shops are not just places to satisfy a sweet tooth; they are destinations for those seeking a unique, plant-based experience. So, this summer, when the heat is unbearable, remember these hidden gems and indulge in a vegan ice cream revolution!
