Best Ice Cream Shops in Cairo, Egypt: When Craving A Sweet Treat

Cairo’s sweltering heat makes ice cream a beloved treat for locals and visitors. Cairo, a bustling metropolis steeped in history, is also home to a dynamic dessert culture that has modified over the years. Among the diverse sweet treats available, ice cream is unique in the hearts of locals and visitors. From traditional flavors that reflect Egypt’s rich heritage to modern, innovative concoctions, the ice cream scene in Cairo offers something for everyone. This article reveals some of the city’s most popular ice cream shops, including famous establishments like Mandarine Koueider, Dolato, and Cold Stone Creamery. Each venue serves delicious frozen treats and embodies the unique flavors and culinary traditions that make Cairo’s dessert landscape diverse and appealing. Here are some of the best ice cream shops in the city, where you can indulge in delicious frozen delights.

1. Gelato Mio

Gelato Mio offers authentic Italian gelato made from high-quality ingredients. Its special flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite spot for ice cream enthusiasts. Gelato Mio is a well-loved ice cream shop in Cairo, famous for its artisanal Italian gelato and sorbet. It offers multiple flavors, including unique options like Lotus, Oreo, and Mastic (Arabic gum). Its gelato is famous for its dense texture and intense flavors, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors.

  • Location: Zamalek, 26 Mohamed Mazhar Street
  • Contact Information: +20 100 999 1000
  • Price Range: EGP 80 – EGP 150
  • Working Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM

2. Dara’s Ice Cream

Dara’s Ice Cream is a famous ice cream shop in Cairo that is famous for its diverse flavors and quality treats. Established as a local favorite, Dara’s offers a delightful selection of ice creams, including unique flavors like Honeycomb, Madagascar Vanilla, and Caramelized Almond. Customers can have their ice cream in various forms, like cones, cups, and cakes. Dara’s ice creams are famous for their rich and creamy textures, although there have been occasional critiques about certain flavors like the Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip. With several branches across Cairo, such as Maadi, Zamalek, and New Cairo, Dara’s has become a go-to spot for ice cream lovers and friends seeking to hang out. The ambiance is modern and inviting, featuring a fun atmosphere that makes it a great place for gatherings.

  • Location: Several branches, including Zamalek
  • Contact Information: +20 103 370 8942
  • Price Range: EGP 60 – 200
  • Working hours: 12 PM to 12 AM 

3. Cold Stone Creamery

Cold Stone Creamery is a famous ice cream brand known for its custom ice cream creations, where patrons can choose their preferred ice cream flavor and mix-ins to be prepared on a frozen granite stone. Originating in 1988 in Tempe, Arizona, the brand has expanded globally, including several locations in Egypt.

In Cairo, Cold Stone Creamery offers various ice cream flavors, signature creations, milkshakes, and ice cream cakes. Its special preparation method allows for a personalized experience, with options to mix in toppings like nuts, fruits, and brownie pieces, resulting in fresh and exciting mixtures. Additionally, the shop offers a fun atmosphere, with staff occasionally entertaining customers with ice cream-themed songs during the ordering process.

  • Location: Maadi, 40 Road 9
  • Contact Information: +20 102 555 6666
  • Price Range: EGP 60 – EGP 150
  • Working Hours: Daily from 1:00 PM to 12:00 AM

4. Dolato

Dolato is a popular ice cream brand in Egypt that is famous for its high-quality gelato and unique offerings. Established in Cairo, Dolato focuses on creating authentic Italian-style gelato and ice cream using natural ingredients. They offer various products, including mini ice cream pops, which have become a customer favorite due to their convenient size and various flavors, such as chocolate, strawberry, pistachio, and more.

Dolato has multiple locations across Cairo, including Heliopolis, New Cairo, and Zayed branches, making it accessible to a wide audience. Additionally, the brand is dedicated to expanding its presence in Egypt, with plans for new branches to cater to growing demand.

  • Location: New Cairo, 90th Street, First Settlement
  • Contact Information: +20 100 112 2333
  • Price Range: EGP 40 – EGP 90
  • Working Hours: Daily from 1:00 PM to 12:00 AM

5. Stavolta

Stavolta is a popular ice cream and gelato shop in Maadi, Cairo, famous for its authentic and homemade Italian gelato. The shop boasts over 30 flavors daily, including traditional Italian options like mascarpone and local favorites like karkadeh and tamarind. The gelato is crafted by an all-Egyptian staff trained by an Italian chef, ensuring high-quality desserts. Prices start at around 10 EGP per scoop. The ambiance is cozy, with a viewing area where customers can see the gelato being made.

  • Location: Maadi, 37 Road 9
  • Contact Information: +20 100 123 4567
  • Price Range: EGP 60 – EGP 150
  • Working Hours: Daily from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM

6. Mandarine Koueider

Mandarine Koueider is a famous sweet shop in Cairo, which is famous for its exceptional ice cream and traditional Middle Eastern sweets. Founded in 1926 by Mohamed Selim Koueider, a Syrian immigrant, the establishment has been modified into a beloved institution over nearly a century, with multiple locations in Cairo.

The shop is particularly famous for its high-quality offerings, including various ice cream flavors, such as fruits, frozen yogurt with berries, and multiple chocolate varieties. Their ice cream is praised for its rich taste and quality, often attracting families and dessert lovers.

  • Location: Zamalek, 25 Mohamed Mazhar Street
  • Contact Information: +20 100 555 4444
  • Price Range: EGP 30 – EGP 100
  • Working Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM

7. Sultana Ice Cream

Sultana Ice Cream is a popular ice cream shop in Cairo, Egypt, renowned for its various flavors and quality. The shop offers traditional and innovative ice cream options, including classic flavors, fruit-based selections, and unique local creations. Customers appreciate the rich, creamy texture and the freshness of the ingredients. The shop aims to create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for indulging in a delicious ice cream cone or sundae while socializing.

  • Location: Heliopolis, 51 El Nozha Street
  • Contact Information: +20 101 222 1111
  • Price Range: EGP 25 – EGP 60
  • Working Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

8. Al Abd

Al Abd is a popular bakery and pastry shop in Cairo, famous for its diverse traditional Egyptian sweets and ice cream. It is particularly popular for its ice cream, which is praised for its rich flavors and creamy texture. Al Abd operates at two bustling branches in Downtown Cairo, attracting crowds with its authentic offerings at affordable prices.

  • Location: Down Town, Cairo
  • Contact Information: +20 100 444 5555
  • Price Range: EGP 20 – EGP 60
  • Working Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

9. Bel Gelato

Bel Gelato is a popular ice cream shop in Heliopolis, Egypt, known for its wide array of gelato flavors. Some standout options include tiramisu, mascarpone, mint, pistachio, and Oreo. The establishment is praised for its friendly service and clean environment, making it an elegant spot for ice cream lovers. It caters primarily to the Heliopolis crowd, providing an authentic gelato experience in a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Location: Zamalek, 36 Mohamed Mazhar Street
  • Contact Information: +20 100 888 9999
  • Price Range: EGP 35 – EGP 90
  • Working Hours: Daily from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM

10. McDonald’s

McDonald’s Ice Cream in Egypt is a famous choice among dessert lovers. It offers various soft-serve options with a creamy texture and sweet flavors. The menu boasts classic items like the Vanilla Cone, Oreo McFlurry, and various sundaes, such as Chocolate Fudge Sundae and Strawberry Sundae.

McDonald’s Ice Cream is widely available at restaurants across Egypt, typically with extended hours to cater to late-night dessert cravings. You can also find delivery options through various food delivery services.

  • Location: Heliopolis and multiple branches all over Egypt
  • Contact: https://www.mcdonalds.eg/
  • Price Range: EGP 30 – 100
  • Working Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 12 PM

11. Baskin Robbins

Baskin-Robbins is a famous ice cream chain that originated in the United States and has made a significant mark in Egypt. Established in 1945, the brand is famous for its “31 flavors“ concept, offering a unique flavor for each day of the month. This remarkable ice cream destination provides a wide range of high-quality ice creams, specialty frozen desserts, and beverages, appealing to a diverse customer base.

Baskin-Robbins operates numerous outlets in Egypt and is dedicated to innovation and quality. The company offers an extensive menu that includes various ice cream flavors, sundaes, and cakes, ensuring something for everyone. Their products are characterized by rich flavors and premium ingredients, making them a favorite for ice cream lovers.

12. Carvel

Carvel is an established ice cream franchise famous for its soft-serve ice cream and unique flavor offerings. Founded in the United States in 1906, Carvel has expanded to Egypt, where it offers various ice cream options, including traditional flavors such as chocolate and strawberry, as well as more unique selections like mint chocolate chip, butter pecan, and tiramisu.

In Egypt, Carvel is known for its delicious ice cream cakes, particularly the classic chocolate and vanilla combination, a highlight for multiple customers. While some reviews note that the local version may not match the quality of its American counterpart, it still provides a satisfying experience for ice cream lovers in Cairo. The shops are often praised for their friendly service and inviting atmosphere.

13. Snö Gelato

Snö Gelato is a delightful ice cream shop in Egypt that brings a touch of Scandinavian flair to the local dessert scene. With locations in Maadi and New Cairo, Snö Gelato is famous for its freshly made gelato, crafted daily from high-quality ingredients. They serve their ice cream in unique, freshly baked Swedish-style waffle cones, adding flavor and authenticity to the experience​.

The shop prides itself on offering various flavors, often inspired by traditional Scandinavian tastes, making it a popular place for those looking to indulge in a unique ice cream experience. Their quality products and charming ambiance have helped Snö Gelato carve out a niche among Cairo’s ice cream enthusiasts.

  • Location: Maadi
  • Contact: 0225196988
  • Price Range: EGP 60 – 120
  • Working hours: Daily from 12 PM to 12 AM 

In conclusion, Cairo’s ice cream shops offer a delightful escape from the city’s rush and bustle, providing a sweet treat for every palate. Whether you’re indulging in the traditional flavors of Al Abd or experiencing the artisanal creations at Bel Gelato, each ice cream shop presents the city’s rich culture and culinary creativity. With so many options available, residents and tourists can enjoy various flavors, textures, and experiences, making Cairo a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers. So, the next time you’re in the city, take a moment to explore its dynamic ice cream scene. It’s an experience that will satisfy your sweet tooth and give you lasting memories.

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