Lygon Street, Carlton. Melbourne’s gelato central. And on a warm Sunday afternoon, business was brisk everywhere, with crowds in every gelateria. Our objective – Il Dolce Freddo, and its Asian-inspired gelati.
Justly famous for its durian gelato – not something that appeals to everyone, but it is just like eating (and smelling!) the fresh fruit. But for the less adventurous, Il Dolce Freddo’s menu also includes more traditional flavours, like chocolate and pistachio.
The purple yam & coconut gelato is the most amazing mauve colour, from the ube (yam) – another fascinating flavour. I wanted something a little lighter – the pandan & coconut gelato. I was going to pair it with mango, but our friendly server suggested that lychee is a better match with pandan. I sampled both and she was absolutely right. An excellent combination of some very intense flavours.
Benny loves his coconut gelato, which he paired with passionfruit. The acidity of the fresh passionfruit was a great contrast for the creamy coconut.
Serving sizes were generous, although Benny’s wafer cone was smaller than what we normally see.
The gelato comes in cups or cones, or tubs to take away. Il Dolce Freddo also serves milkshakes and smoothies, coffee and tea.
It is rather dark inside the store, and the décor is a little tired, but the tables outside on the wide footpath were bathed in afternoon sunshine. A pleasant spot to enjoy our gelato.
Excellent gelato, and the Asian-style flavours are truly special. Definitely something a bit different from traditional Italian gelaterie.
Il Dolce Freddo
116 Lygon Street
Carlton Vic 3053
T: (03) 9639 3344
W: www.facebook.com/ildolcefreddoAU/
