BRUSSELS – As temperatures rise and the sun lingers longer in the sky, Brussels residents and visitors alike are seeking sweet, refreshing ways to escape the summer heat.
While the Belgian capital is world-renowned for its fine chocolates and waffles, a new wave of artisanal ice cream parlours is making its mark across the city. With a focus on natural ingredients, international flavours, and bold creativity, these spots are fast becoming seasonal favourites.
From Lebanese-inspired scoops to Italian gelato and South American flair, we took a tour of the city’s top ice cream destinations to help you navigate your next frozen indulgence.
Miska: A Lebanese Twist on a Belgian Favourite
Nestled in the heart of Brussels and in leafy Uccle, Miska offers a unique fusion of flavours that reflect its Middle Eastern roots.
This artisanal ice cream parlour brings a Lebanese twist to traditional gelato, offering flavours that range from pistachio and rose water to date and mastic.
What sets Miska apart is its dedication to natural ingredients and its effort to balance exotic ingredients with familiar textures. The result is a menu that is both surprising and comforting, appealing to curious foodies and purists alike.
In addition to their signature scoops, Miska also offers other sweet delights like baklava-topped sundaes and creamy desserts infused with orange blossom.
📍 Locations: Rue des Bouchers 32, 1000 Brussels and Chaussée de Saint-Job 771b, 1180 Uccle
📲 More info: [Facebook – Miska Brussels]
Bouboule: Handmade Daily and All-Natural
In Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Bouboule has built a loyal following for its commitment to handcrafting ice cream daily using all-natural ingredients. With no artificial colourings or flavours, this parlour puts freshness and flavour at the centre of everything it does.
The range of choices includes both classics like vanilla and chocolate and more creative offerings like “Dubai chocolate” — a rich, spiced twist on the traditional treat. Vegan and low-sugar options are also available, making Bouboule inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.
Visitors can grab their cones to-go or relax on the charming terrace outside. For many locals, it’s become a summer ritual.
📍 Location: Avenue Albert-Elisabeth 31, 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert
📲 More info: [Facebook – Bouboule]
Gaston: A Brussels Ice Cream Institution
With three locations across the capital, Gaston has become synonymous with quality ice cream in Brussels. Since opening, the parlour has distinguished itself with its seasonal, scratch-made flavours that reflect both creativity and culinary integrity.
Whether it’s Sicilian hazelnut, rum raisin, or a tangy fruit sorbet, Gaston’s menu is regularly updated based on seasonal produce. The parlour prides itself on avoiding preservatives, artificial colours, and additives.
Catering to an increasingly health-conscious and diverse clientele, Gaston offers a selection of vegan and gluten-free options, making it a go-to for families and ice cream lovers of all kinds.
📍 Locations:
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Quai aux Briques 86, 1000 Brussels
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Place du Grand Sablon 9, 1000 Brussels
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Place Dumon 29, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
📲 More info: [Facebook – Gaston]
Giotto: A Slice of Italy in Brussels
Although a newcomer on the scene, Giotto has quickly gained a reputation for delivering high-quality, Italian-style gelato that pays homage to the traditions of its homeland.
Opened in 2023, the parlour now operates from two locations and has already picked up industry awards for its authentic taste and use of seasonal ingredients.
Run by a team passionate about Italian gelato, Giotto focuses on crafting every batch with care. Expect vibrant sorbets, intense chocolate varieties, and creamy pistachio that could rival any Roman gelateria.
The design of the parlour is also noteworthy — minimal yet inviting, with a clear view of the production space that gives visitors insight into the artisanal process.
📍 Locations: Rue Washington 152, 1050 Ixelles and Rue Bonaventure 103, 1090 Jette
📲 More info: [Facebook – Gelateria Giotto]
Cones Brussels: From NYC to Ixelles
In 2019, Argentinian ice cream maker Alejandro Atampi brought his passion and expertise to Brussels after years of perfecting his craft in New York City. The result: Cones Brussels, a boutique parlour in Ixelles that blends South American warmth with cosmopolitan flair.
Each scoop at Cones is made from scratch daily, with an emphasis on natural, fresh ingredients. Flavours include luscious dulce de leche, classic vanilla bean, and adventurous picks like cinnamon and tiramisu.
Though small in size, the shop’s bold personality and rich offerings have made it a local favourite. It’s an ideal spot to grab a cup on a warm evening or introduce friends to something new.
📍 Location: Rue Lesbroussart 49, 1050 Ixelles
📲 More info: [Facebook – Cones Brussels]
A Cool Future for Brussels’ Ice Cream Scene
Brussels’ ice cream landscape has expanded far beyond the typical vanilla-chocolate-strawberry trinity. Each of these parlours reflects a growing appetite among locals and tourists for high-quality, natural, and inventive treats — an evolution that mirrors broader culinary trends across Europe.
Beyond simply cooling down, these ice cream spots offer a taste of something deeper: tradition reimagined, culture expressed through flavour, and a reminder that even the simplest pleasures can be extraordinary when done right.
So as the summer sun beams down on the capital’s boulevards, parks, and terraces, there’s no better time to explore these frozen gems. Whether you’re in the mood for pistachio gelato, rose-infused scoops, or a refreshing vegan sorbet, Brussels has something delightful waiting around the corner.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
