What do you get when you mix the Swedish concept of ‘lagom’ with Italian gelato? Being an admirer of many things Swedish, plus memories of some wonderful travel experiences in a time long-ago before lockdown, I was super keen to find out how Lagom Gelateria combines Swedish sensibility with Italian passion.
While the foundation for this Brunswick gelateria is based on traditional Italian techniques and recipes, the creative process for developing new and interesting flavours is guided by the principle of ‘lagom’ – everything being in balance, or in moderation.
Lagom has a great corner location in Sydney Road, opposite the Brunswick tram depot. A few tables make the most of a sunny spot in the side street, and there is also a clutch of tiny tables and stools inside the shop.
All the gelati is made onsite in small batches, from quality ingredients, with an emphasis on local producers. The day’s menu includes 20 regular flavours plus five weekly specials, covering dairy and non-dairy (vegan) options. All served in cups or cones, or tubs to take away. Gelato-filled cannoli, gelato shakes and gelato cakes are also available.
On our visit, Benny picked the star flavour of the day – strawberry and basil sorbetto. Absolutely gorgeous, with a perfect texture. He paired it with coconut, pandan and macadamia crunch – liked the flavour, but unfortunately macadamia was undetectable – definitely no crunch – and the texture was a bit icy.
I chose the classic Italian combination of pistachio gelato with lemon sorbetto. Great flavours, the pistachio was particularly good, but the lemon was a touch icy.
Unfortunately, the lagom concept didn’t stretch to the shop itself. Hard surfaces and loud pumping music created an extremely harsh acoustic environment. Not ideal for engaging with the staff – they couldn’t hear us and we couldn’t hear them. Definitely not lagom in action. The outside tables are a better option for chatting with gelato friends.
Lagom Gelateria has some really great flavours, but the overall ambience falls somewhat short of the Swedish concept of ‘lagom’ or balance.
Lagom Gelateria
822 Sydney Road
Brunswick VIC 3039
T: (03) 7015 9142
W: lagomgelateria.com.au
