Time Out has named the best ice cream and gelato spots in London, just as the capital faces its third major heat event of 2026 with temperatures forecast to reach 34°C. The guide covers cones, cups, sorbets, gelato, and soft serve, aiming to help residents and visitors stay cool during the heatwave.
Top pick: Gelateria Romeo & Giulietta
The top spot goes to Gelateria Romeo & Giulietta in Stoke Newington, praised by Time Out London Food & Drink Editor Leonie Cooper as the city's best ice cream parlour. Local expert Rosie Hewitson noted: 'If the sun isn't a big enough clue, you'll know it's a hot day in Stoke Newington by the size of the queue at Romeo & Giulietta. This artisan gelateria offers silky, authentic Italian gelato as well as numerous serving suggestions about the best combos to try. They're not wrong when they recommend a scoop of pistachio with their ricotta and caramelised figs, or for vegans the extra dark chocolate sorbet with a serving of black cherry praline.'
Second and third places
Second place, for the second year running, is Soho's Gelupo, with recommended flavours including ricotta sour cherry, mint stracciatella, and apricot sherbet. Third place goes to Chelsea's Ice Cream Project, known for unconventional flavours such as Euthymol toothpaste, OXO stock cube, and Capri-Sun Orange.
How to stay updated
Time Out encourages readers to check the full list online and to follow their WhatsApp channel or sign up for the free newsletter for more London news and events.
