Ice Cream in Yangon

If you’re on the hunt for ice cream in Yangon, you’re in for a fun and delicious adventure. Let me guide you through five top spots where you can grab some unique and refreshing treats, from classic parlors to trendy gelato joints. Each place has its own character and quirks, so expect both frivolous enjoyment and serious satisfaction.

First on the list is Ko Hla Thein Ice Cream, a beloved, old-school ice cream shop that has been around since 1962. Located near Thu Mingalar Park, Ko Hla Thein is the epitome of classic Burmese ice cream. The shop is small, almost quaint, with a few seats outside where you can relax after grabbing your ice cream. Their standout dish? The ice cream sandwich—no, not the typical cookie variety, but a slightly eccentric mix of bread slices stuffed with jelly, coconut shavings, sago seeds, and vanilla ice cream, all drizzled with sweet milk. If that sounds like too much, you can always opt for their ice salad, which is basically a sugary concoction of jellies, peanuts, pineapple jam, and more sweetened milk. It’s as quirky as it sounds, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything less than a full-on sugar rush. While the charm of Ko Hla Thein lies in its nostalgic flavors, be prepared for the extreme sweetness. For those looking to tone it down, their soft pudding is a gentle, milder option that gives you a much-needed break from the sugar overload.

Next up is Scoop Premium Italian Ice Cream, perfect if you’re looking for something a little fancier but still affordable. Scoop prides itself on offering low-fat gourmet ice cream, which is great if you’re feeling guilty about indulging. Their selection is vibrant, constantly changing, and always full of rich, bold flavors—think pistachio, hazelnut, and mango sorbet. What really sets Scoop apart is its Italian gelato-style texture. It’s smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor without feeling too heavy. Located at Junction Square, it’s a convenient stop for anyone spending time in the city’s shopping areas. It might not have the eccentric appeal of some other places, but Scoop’s serious commitment to flavor and texture is undeniable.

For a trendier and more modern take on ice cream, check out Frozee Gelato Creamery. They serve freshly produced Italian gelato with a constantly rotating menu of unique flavors. Frozee is known for its innovation, always introducing something new to surprise and delight customers. Their location near Sule Pagoda makes it the perfect stop while exploring the city center. One of the best things about Frozee is that they also specialize in ice cream cakes, which are perfect if you're celebrating or just feel like treating yourself. Frozee might be slightly pricier than some other spots, but the richness and depth of their gelato flavors make it worth it. It’s a place where the frivolous fun of trying new things meets the serious business of high-quality ingredients.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Htoo Ice Cream is a local favorite that’s all about simplicity. Located near Pazundaung Market, this small shop serves up affordable, no-nonsense ice cream that locals swear by. At just 700 kyat per scoop, it’s an absolute bargain, but don’t let the low price fool you—Htoo is famous for its delicate sorbets and creamy ice creams, including classic flavors like rum and raisin and unique ones like green soda. Htoo is a little rough around the edges, with no frills or pretensions, but it’s exactly that down-to-earth vibe that makes it so beloved. It's the perfect spot to grab a scoop on a hot Yangon afternoon.

Finally, if you’re looking for something with a bit of flair, head to Sharky’s. Sharky’s is well-known in Yangon for its homemade, Italian-style gelato. You can find a wide variety of classic and creative flavors, from indulgent chocolate to refreshing passionfruit. While Sharky’s is a bit more upscale (with prices around $2-3 per scoop), the gelato is made fresh daily, and you can really taste the quality of the ingredients. Their Kamaryut Township location has a laid-back, café atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out and enjoy your ice cream at a leisurely pace. They also offer a selection of artisanal food products, so if you’re in the mood for more than just ice cream, Sharky’s has you covered.

Whether you’re in the mood for classic, quirky, or gourmet, Yangon has an ice cream spot for everyone. Just be prepared for the unexpected—whether it's a bread-filled ice cream sandwich or an ultra-smooth scoop of hazelnut gelato, the ice cream culture here is serious about both fun and flavor.