If you’re visiting the stunning Greek island of Santorini, you’re undoubtedly excited about the breathtaking sunsets, the charming white-washed buildings, and the cobalt-blue waters.
But here’s a delicious secret…
Santorini is also a haven for ice cream lovers!
From traditional Greek Kaimaki (the stretchy ice cream!), to your favorite classics, this guide is all about introducing you to the best ice cream shops in Santorini…
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Santorini’s Best Ice Cream
Let’s get this straight: Santorini knows how to do ice cream.
Whether it’s a classic scoop of your favorite flavor or a traditional Greek treat, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.
From the charming streets of Oia to the bustling center of Kamari, here are some top spots you won’t want to miss:
- Lolita’s Gelato (Address: Oia, 847 02):
Open 7 days per week, 10:30am – 11:00pm
Known for its delectable gelato and cozy atmosphere, Lolita’s is a must-visit spot in the picturesque town of Oia. - Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream (Address: Perissa, 84703):
For fans of this legendary ice cream brand, your favorite scoop is waiting for you in Perissa. - The Souvlaki STOP (Address: Kamari 847 00, Greece):
Open 7 days per week, 11:00am – 12:00am
Just a hop away from this fantastic fast food spot is a stand serving up simple, yet heavenly ice cream – a perfect dessert to top off your souvlaki. - Skiza Cafe (Address: Οία, Thira 847 02):
Open 7 days per week, 8:00am – 12:00am
If you want to combine your ice cream experience with a coffee, Skiza cafe is your spot. Enjoy your scoop with an impressive view over the caldera. - Chocolat Creperie-Cafe (Address: Perissa 847 03):
Open 7 days per week, 10:00am – 11:30pm
From crepes to a wide range of desserts, and of course, ice cream, this place has it all. - Melenio Cafe (Address: Oía 847 02):
Open 7 days per week, 9:00am – 11:45pm
This cozy café is a gem for ice cream and dessert enthusiasts, offering a delicious menu of sweet treats.
The Scoop on Greek Kaimaki Ice Cream
Now, when talking about ice cream in Greece, we must mention the traditional, stretchy Greek ice cream known as “Kaimaki”.
This isn’t your ordinary scoop! Kaimaki is made unique by its texture and flavor, thanks to the use of mastic, a resin obtained from the mastic tree.
The stretchy texture of Kaimaki is quite an experience! Typically, it’s enjoyed with a topping of sour cherry syrup and sprinkled with either pistachios or sweet almonds.
Kaimaki ice cream is softer compared to the Turkish version and commonly found in Greece. So when you’re in Santorini, seize the chance to try this unique dessert!
Kaimaki vs Regular Ice Cream: A Flavorful Showdown
In the world of frozen treats, Kaimaki and regular ice cream each bring something unique to the table. Let’s delve deeper into what differentiates these two delightful desserts.
| Regular Ice Cream | Kaimaki | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Global | Greece |
| Main Ingredients | Milk, cream, sugar, and various flavorings | Milk, sugar, salepi (orchid root), and mastic resin |
| Texture | Smooth and creamy | Stretchy and slightly chewy |
| Taste | Varies depending on flavor | Aromatic due to mastic, with a subtle sweet taste |
| Typical Toppings | Varies (e.g., chocolate sauce, nuts, etc.) | Sour cherry syrup, pistachios, or sweet almonds |
| Availability | Worldwide | Commonly found in Greece |
The Ingredients
Regular ice cream and Kaimaki differ significantly when it comes to ingredients. Regular ice cream, as most of us know, is crafted from a blend of milk, cream, sugar, and a host of flavorings depending on the type you prefer.
From classic vanilla and chocolate to exotic mango and matcha, the choices are nearly endless.
On the other hand, Kaimaki, a traditional Greek ice cream, boasts a more unique recipe.
One key ingredient that sets Kaimaki apart is mastic, a resin obtained from the mastic tree that’s native to the Mediterranean region.
The mastic gives Kaimaki a distinct, aromatic flavor that’s unlike any regular ice cream.
The Texture
Another notable difference between Kaimaki and regular ice cream is their texture.
Regular ice cream is creamy and smooth. Depending on the churning process and the fat content, it can range from being luxuriously dense and rich (like in premium ice creams) to light and airy.
Kaimaki, however, is quite the textured treat!
Thanks to mastic, it has a slightly chewy and stretchy consistency that sets it apart.
If you’ve ever enjoyed mozzarella cheese and loved its stringy quality, imagine that in a sweet, aromatic ice cream form – that’s Kaimaki for you!
The Experience
Lastly, the eating experience of Kaimaki differs from regular ice cream.
While we are accustomed to the velvety melt of regular ice cream, Kaimaki offers an intriguing mouthfeel.
The stretchiness makes for a unique, playful, and engaging dessert adventure that’s both delicious and fun.
It’s usually served with a drizzle of sour cherry syrup and a sprinkling of pistachios or sweet almonds, enhancing the dessert experience with bursts of contrasting flavors and textures.
Santorini’s other Desserts
In addition to ice cream, Santorini also offers other sweet treats which will be sure to delight any dessert lover.
- Baklava: A sweet and flaky pastry layered with nuts and drenched in honey syrup. A classic Mediterranean dessert known for its rich flavors.
- Kantaifi: Another syrupy dessert, Kantaifi is made with shredded filo dough, giving it a unique texture and delightful taste.
- Walnut Pie: This delectable dessert showcases crunchy walnuts nestled within a sweet pastry. Its texture and flavor make it a must-try.
- Chocolate Pie: A dream for chocolate lovers, this pie boasts a rich, gooey chocolate center that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Each dessert tells a tale of Santorini’s culinary journey, making your ice cream tour around the island a more authentic and enjoyable gastronomic adventure.
We have a full guide on the best dessert in Santorini, which includes the locations of the best places to get them!
Wrapping Up
When in Santorini, treat yourself not just to its stunning views and azure waters, but also to the best ice cream you can find.
From classic favorites to traditional Greek Kaimaki, ice cream in Santorini is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Looking for the best instagram spots on Santorini, we have a thorough guide for that.
We also have a superb guide on the best yoghurt in Santorini, so be sure to check that out!
So, get ready to take your taste buds on a trip they’ll never forget!
FAQs
Can you eat ice cream in Greece?
Enjoying ice cream, a universally beloved dessert, is a perfect way to enhance a summer walk through the heart of Athens, the capital of Greece, no matter the ingredients or how it’s made.
What is the name of the Greek ice cream?
The recipe for Pagoto Kaimaki, a delightful Greek ice cream (pronounced pah-ghoh-TOH kah-ee-MAH-kee), is unique for its flavor derived from salep, a powder made from orchid roots.