The world's must-try ice creams: Taipei Yongkang Street’s 8% ranks 10th

Text and photos / Excerpted fromA day magazine

About three-quarters of the world’s population is currently in the grip of freezing cold, yet there’s one food whose charm remains irresistible — ice cream. Like love, it first offers an intense, lingering sweetness, lifting you into a blissful trance, only to leave you shivering afterward. But the next time you pass its shop window, you’ll find yourself stepping in for another scoop.

Now, here are 10 of the most delicious ice creams in the world — though each claims to be the best on the planet. First up, Italy’s Gelato (the Italian word for ice cream). Italy is world-renowned for its ice cream, and Gelato is undoubtedly one of its culinary icons. There are two serving options: cones (cono) or cups (coppa). Cone servings are typically larger, with generous scoops, and pistachio is reportedly a staple flavor at every Gelato shop.

1. GIOLITTI – A Century-Old Shop Loved by Popes

This historic shop, beloved by popes across generations, is tucked away in a small alley near the Pantheon. Its decor is classic and old-world, maintaining the charm of a traditional establishment. The menu remains traditional as well, offered only in Italian despite drawing visitors from around the globe.
Via Uffici del Vicario, 00186 Rome, Italy
+39 06 699 1243

2. POMPI – A Stunning Roman Favorite

Rome’s POMPI is arguably the best of the Gelato shops. Flavors like Tiramisu, Limoncello, Bailey’s + Whisky — they’re all astonishing.
Albalonga 7b/9/11
00183 Roma
+39 067000418

3. Old Bridge Gelateria – A Must-Visit Near the Vatican

On the way to the Vatican Museums, you’ll spot this bustling little ice cream shop from afar. Scoops go for around €3, topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Mango and other fruit flavors often include real fruit pieces. It’s a must-do stop when visiting the Vatican.
Viale Bastioni di Michelangelo, 5, 00192 Roma,Italy
+39 06 4559 9961

4. Ciampini – Beloved by Foodies

Located near the San Lorenzo square, this elegant little café offers chestnut-flavored gelato with candied chestnuts paired perfectly with cioccolato fondente (dark chocolate). Classic flavors like hazelnut and mango are also famous. The shop also serves beautifully plated desserts, attracting food enthusiasts regularly.
Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, 29, 00186 Rome, Italy
+39 06 687 6606

5. Vivoli – Florence’s Hottest Ice Cream

Florence’s most famous ice cream shop is Vivoli, located on Via dell’ Isola delle Stinche. With over 70 years of history, it’s especially known for its rice (RISO) gelato, which has a delightful, grainy texture and rich rice flavor. Even locals can’t resist it. It’s close to the Basilica of Santa Croce.

Via dell’Isola delle Stinche 7r | FIRENZE
+ 055 292334

6. Toscanini’s Ice Cream – The World’s Best Ice Cream

Praised by The New York Times as the best ice cream in the world, Toscanini’s offers an astonishing variety of flavors. Vanilla Bean is the top-selling,
while Salted Caramel delivers a smooth, not overly sweet balance that many customers find unforgettable.
899 Main St., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
+1 617 491 5877

7. Hakodate, Hokkaido – Citizen’s Forest Rest Facility 0?虻軎 – Japan’s Best Ice Cream

In front of the Hokkaido Women’s Monastery, you’ll find what’s recognized as Hokkaido’s — and even Japan’s — best ice cream. It’s exclusively milk soft serve, with a rich milky-sweet taste that isn’t cloying. Served in flower-shaped biscuit cups, it’s become a must-try dessert when visiting Hokkaido.
327-1 Yuwakawa-cho, Hakodate City
+0138-57-8845

8. Amorino – A Dreamy Floral Treat

This famous French shop is known for its charming logo of a little angel holding an ice cream cone. With beautiful window displays and a wide selection of desserts, its flower-shaped ice cream scoops make it a must-visit spot. Eating here feels like strolling romantically through Paris with a flower in hand.
13, Chemin des Chaudronniers 94310 ORLY
SIRET 489 779 009 000 21
+ 33 1 53 14 57 00

9. Big Gay Ice Cream – A Joyful Ice Cream Truck

Originally an ice cream truck in New York City, Big Gay Ice Cream serves soft-serve cones with unique, playful, and unconventional flavors and toppings. True to its name, it was founded by members of the LGBTQ+ community who bring joy and fun to the shop, regularly hosting lively events. Visitors to NYC can easily find their store.
61 Grove St (7th Ave S)
125 E 7th St (Ave A & 1st Ave)
+1 212-533-9333

10. 8% – Also Available in Taiwan

Known for being healthy and low-fat, 8% is located on Taipei’s Yongkang Street. It offers daily limited-edition flavors, including unique creations like black sesame, snow salt brown sugar, and golden sweet potato — flavors you won’t find elsewhere. The shop also combines space with art, occasionally hosting photo and art exhibitions.
No. 6, Lane 13, Yongkang Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan
02 2395 6583