What do you get when you combine French pâtisserie making with some top-shelf treats? The delectable fare of this establishment, which mixes pastry ingredients (like French macaroons dipped in chocolate) with vanilla ice cream. Other to-die-for frozen delights include Maple Taffy ice cream, handcrafted ice cream sandwiches and dipped Popsicles. Sometimes you can watch the chefs make fresh cones (out of natural ingredients) through their storefront window.
February to December: 3807 St. Denis, Montreal. 514-373-7558
Old-world traditional ice cream making and 70 years of experience is why this dairy attracts customers to Quebec’s Eastern Townships. With a commitment to using only natural ingredients, there are more than two dozen ice cream flavours – including Cherry Cheesecake, Chocolate Chunk and Maple Nut – which you can enjoy on Laiterie’s summer terrace.
1000 Rue Child, Coaticook. 819-849-2272
This lime-green, cottage-style shop with a wraparound porch is reminiscent of lazy days by the lake; it’s the perfect setting to chill with any of its two dozen cool homemade treats. Simple ice cream choices like Brownies and Cream make the menu, as do more exotic flavours like Ginger Snap and Chai.
April to October, weekends to December: 14 ch Scott, Old Chelsea. 819-827-6060
Sometimes the simple things in life are the best. That’s the philosophy Ripples applies to its array of frozen goodies, including its prized homemade French vanilla ice cream. When the delectable frozen yogurts and refreshing sorbets aren’t holding the kids’ attention, the shop’s antique paraphernalia, like antique equipment and old radios, certainly will.
Mid-April to mid-September, 3880 St. Laurent Blvd., Montreal. 514-842-1697
Sticky finger alert! This European-inspired chocolate shop offers the finest in chocolate ice cream, either enjoyed on its own or smothered in their homemade chocolate sauces. Enjoy a Vanilla, Orange, Strawberry or Maple soft-serve ice cream, or taste one of their sorbets.
32 Ave. Begin, Lévis. 418-833-2287; 1st Ave., Charlesbourg. 418-627-2288; 1480, Rue Provancher, Cap-Rouge. 418-653-2414
Havre aux glaces
If you’re tired of the usual fare, you’ll want to plan a trip here. Its inventive flavours include Strawberry Pepper sorbet, Blood Orange and Dulce De Leche. If the kids aren’t as adventurous as you, don’t worry – Vanilla, Melon or Strawberry flavours are sure to please.
Jean Talon Market, 7070 rue Henri-Julien, Montreal. 514-278-8696
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