A group of friends enjoy different flavours of ice cream. Picture: Pexels
From unexpected flavour combinations to centuries-old traditions, ice cream has evolved far beyond the classic vanilla, chocolate and controversial choc-mint options.
According to Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa, for ice cream lovers, it’s worth travelling just to experience some of these special desserts around the globe.
Turner said that food tourism remains a key travel trend for 2024 and beyond as their customers often have unique culinary experiences at the top of their holiday wish lists.
“Thanks to social media, such as Instagram and TikTok, many customers have pinned all the restaurants, foods, and experiences they want to enjoy when visiting the destination. And, of course, ice cream is a firm favourite,” she said.
If you’re looking for a taste adventure, here are five unique ice cream experiences from around the world.
Sample sakura and squid ink in Japan
According to the travel expert, Japan has long been at the forefront of quirky ice cream flavours.
She said that you can sample adzuki (Japanese red beans), corn, and sakura flavours, infused with cherry blossoms and a must-try in the springtime when viewing the sakura trees in bloom.
“Then there’s the downright adventurous flavours for only the most curious ice cream enthusiast. Think onion, squid ink, or shirasu/whitebait, ice cream topped with a small white fish and sometimes dipped in soy sauce and sold in ice cream shops in the Enoshima and Kamakura regions,” said Turner.
She added that if you love gyoza (Japanese dumplings), you’ll be delighted to try this flavour at the chain of Dandadan Sakaba stores throughout the country.
“But perhaps the most intriguing and delicious option on the menu across Japan is the purple ice cream made from the famous local purple sweet potato,” said Turner.
Taste the wonderful flavours of gelato in Italy
The travel expert highlighted that Italy is the home of gelato and ice cream lovers are spoiled for choice with over 39 000 gelato shops to choose from.
She added that while the country is renowned for its traditional gelato, artisanal Italian shops are pushing the boundaries today and you can try out a scoop or two of cheese-flavoured gelato such as gorgonzola or even anchovy-flavoured gelato.
“When in Italy, seek out the small family-run gelaterie. Don’t think every gelato shop is serving the ‘real, traditional’ gelato, especially in the tourist areas. You’ll have to do your research to find the real thing,” said Turner.
The travel expert also said that Italy’s capital city of gelato is said to be Bologna and is home to a gelato museum as well as top-rated gelateries, which is a fantastic bet for travellers looking to experience the traditional gelato culture.
She also added that if you’re an ice cream lover but can’t handle the dairy, Rome is the place for you.
“In Rome, you can visit the Grezzo chain of shops. These gelateria and bakeries serve treats to delight every vegan or gluten-free traveller.
“Lactose-intolerant travellers can also ask at the gelato shops as there may be suitable options such as fruit-flavoured sorbet or others made with soy,” she said.
A stretch for your taste buds in Turkey
Turner also said that in the bustling markets of Istanbul, you’ll find dondurma, the famous, super stretchy ice cream that’s as much a performance as it is a dessert.
“Made with orchid root, it has a unique elastic texture that allows vendors to perform elaborate tricks as they serve it. Flavours range from classic pistachio to more adventurous options like saffron,” said the travel expert.
Ice cream that doesn’t melt in the Philippines
For those looking to treat themselves while they cool off, the travel expert said that in the tropical heat of the Philippines, street vendors sell a unique dairy-free ice cream that doesn’t melt.
“Known as sorbetes, this dessert is made with coconut milk and cassava flour, giving it a chewy texture. Flavours like ube (purple yam), mango, chocolate, cheese and even corn, are popular choices,” said Turner.
Culturally-inspired flavours in South Africa
Turner revealed that South Africa isn’t lagging in the unique ice cream stakes either. She added that The Creamery is known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients in Cape Town.
“They offer flavours inspired by traditional South African favourites, such as koeksister, malva pudding, milk tart, peppermint crisp tart and mouthwatering seasonal fruit flavours.
“Some artisanal ice cream makers are even experimenting with fynbos-infused flavours, capturing the essence of the Cape’s unique flora,” said Turner.