There’s no doubt that Istanbul has been witnessing an ice-cream shop boom in the last few years: little artisanal gelato shops and small chains started to spring up all around, and I don’t imagine anyone’s complaining. Whether your choice is classic Turkish ice-cream (like Ali Usta or the popular Maraş-style ice-cream chain Mado), or Italian gelato, this city caters to every taste.
Trying to come up with a favorite is quite difficult, but I think there’s one place that stands out among the crowd: Arnavutköy’s one and only, Girandola. I feel like this little place is very cozy and welcoming, everyone has a smile on their faces and the ice-cream is superb. Along with classics like chocolate, milk etc; Girandola also offers quality fruit-based sorbets and more creative flavors like mojito, bitter chocolate and J&B or my favorite, cinnamon-apple.
Growing in popularity, Girandola opened another shop near Bağdat Caddesi for those who crave their splendid scoops. When there, don’t resist the temptation to try out many flavors – and keep an eye on the seasonal offerings like the amazing pumpkin ice-cream made especially in autumn. Girandola also offers beverages, desserts and sundaes along with one of the finest selection of gelato this side of Florence.
