I knew it; Italian ice cream IS taking over the world. There can be no better fixation.

ISTANBUL - The tough and chewy Kahramanmaraş style ice cream is probably the most popular frozen dessert in Turkey. Yet in Istanbul, Italian style gelato ice cream parlors are making a big splash this summer. Here is a list of a few to enjoy.

Cremeria Milano was established a few years ago at the end of İstiklal Avenue, near the Tünel and Asmalı Mescit areas. Many were pleasantly surprised and shocked at the similarities of its gelato to the original creamy, smooth kinds of Italy, going as far as calling it "the best ice cream outside of Italy." Although a bit pricey (3 Turkish Liras for a single scope) compared to other ice cream parlors in Beyoğlu, this Italian parlor instantly became a legend, attracting ice cream lovers from all localities. Fans around Istanbul could travel from Sariyer or even the Asian side for an authentic version of their gelato.

Cremeria Milano’s café seating area is a bit narrow, thus it might be better to get gelato to go and continue strolling İstiklal Avenue. The most popular flavors are bitter chocolate, fior di latte (kaymak), tiramisu and Baileys. Fruity flavors mix well with creamier chocolate and nut flavors, such as the Turkish raspberry, frambuaz, and other seasonal fruit essences.

Recently Cremeria Milano opened their first branch in Nişantaşı. Although this petite parlor on Maçka Street has no seating area, the businessmen, socialites and shoppers of the area seem to immensely enjoy this creamy and caloric Italian frozen dairy dessert.

Asmali Mescit Mahallesi Istiklal Caddesi No 164/A Beyoğlu, Tel: 0212 245 5064



Situated between Bahar Patisserie and Bodrum Manti near Arnavutköy’s Police Station is La Girondola, the new comer of Italian-style ice cream parlors right on the Bosphorus waterfront. Owner Aslı Eraltan specialized her training in ice cream at university in Italy. Thus, she hand makes the frozen desserts, cooking the milk and syrup and using only seasonal ingredients. During the summer months, one finds flavors such as fresh sour cherry, melon and strawberry in addition to classics such as chocolate, caramel and the Turkish version of plain ice cream, "kaymak," or clotted cream. Other original variations include mascarpone, chocolate brandy, mojito, créme brûlée, and during the wintertime pumpkin, fig, green apple and chestnut. In terms of making a selection, the fresh gelato choices are so tempting that one feels they have to return soon to sample the other variations. While La Girandola’s indoor and outdoor seating area has a pleasant view of the Bosphorus, it is recommended to savor this gelato on the lovely waterfront walk from Arnavutköy to Bebek.

La Girandola, Arnavutköy Caddesi 109, Arnavutköy. Tel: 0212 265 2629.