Here's The Scoop: Kelowna’s Best Frozen Treats
Summer in the Okanagan is officially here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already mapping out your go-to spots for a cool-down treat. Whether you’re a purist who believes vanilla is the king of flavors or an adventurous eater looking for the latest "must-try" swirl, Kelowna’s ice cream scene has leveled up significantly this year.
From artisanal Italian gelato to handcrafted, small-batch scoops that highlight local ingredients, here is my curated list of the top places to grab a cone this season.
A downtown legend for a reason. Parlour crafts their ice cream in-house with premium, locally sourced ingredients. Pro tip: The smell of their fresh-pressed waffle cones is half the experience, so don't skip the upgrade.
2. Amore Mio
If you prefer the dense, silky texture of authentic Italian gelato, this Bernard Avenue staple is the gold standard. They even serve "gelato spaghetti" - a fun, whimsical presentation that makes for great photos.
With locations in the Lower Mission and the Aqua Boat Club, they have mastered the art of "from-scratch" creations. Their flavor profiles, like the toasted marshmallow-based Chute Lake Road, are pure magic.
4. Moo-Lix
A Kelowna favorite since 1998, Moo-Lix offers a massive variety - over 40 flavors! They are consistently excellent at keeping a deep bench of vegan and dairy - free options that don't skimp on quality.
5. La Diperie
For the "more is more" crowd. Located near the North End, they specialize in custom dipping and an endless array of toppings. Perfect for when you want your ice cream to feel like a full-blown dessert construction project.
With multiple locations (including Lower Mission and downtown), this is your classic reliable stop. The "slab" method - where they hand-fold your mix-ins right in front of you - is a classic for a reason.
7. Kettle Valley Coffee & Scoops
A quaint community hub perfect for families. With a designated kids' area and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s the best spot to sit and actually enjoy your scoop rather than rushing back to the beach.
8. Tickleberrys
Okay, so it’s a bit of a road trip down to Okanagan Falls, but it’s a local rite of passage. If you’re heading south for a day trip, the massive portions and the sheer volume of flavor choices make it an essential stop.
Have a favorite spot that didn't make the list? Let me know - I’m always looking for an excuse to do more "research."