12 Best Dessert Spots Across Sydney
Sydney's dessert scene spans everything from classic gelato to modern dessert bars. Whether you're after a quick treat in Darling Harbour or a proper sit-down experience in Newtown, here are the standout spots worth visiting.
- 1Dessert Spots Darling Harbour
1. Gelatissimo Darling Harbour
Your best bet for gelato with harbour views. Located in one of Sydney's busiest precincts, it's convenient if you're already exploring the waterfront.
View venue4.8(1,759)· Google$$$$69Spot ScoreWorth a Look 
2Dessert Spots Alexandria2. Gelato Messina Rosebery
Head here to avoid the CBD crowds. The Alexandria location (technically Rosebery) offers a quieter gelato experience away from the tourist hotspots.
View venue4.7(1,882)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Dessert Spots Sydney CBD4. Gelato Messina Circular Quay
The flagship CBD location puts you right in the heart of the city. Ideal if you're sightseeing near the Opera House or Harbour Bridge.
View venue4.6(1,798)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Dessert Spots Bondi5. French Riviera Icecreamery
For ice cream with European sensibilities in Bondi. A good choice if you prefer the relaxed beachside vibe of the eastern beaches.
View venue4.9(454)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Dessert Spots Newtown6. Mapo Newtown
Fits perfectly into a Newtown crawl. Located in a suburb known for its quirky food scene, it pairs well with the surrounding bars and restaurants.
View venue4.7(1,156)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Dessert Spots Newtown7. Cow & The Moon
Another solid Newtown option worth checking. Gives you choice if you're spending an evening in the neighbourhood.
View venue4.6(3,612)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Dessert Spots Sydney CBD9. KOI Dessert Bar
A proper dessert bar experience in the CBD. Go here if you want more than just ice cream or gelato—somewhere you can sit down with something more substantial.
View venue4.5(2,855)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Dessert Spots Darling Harbour10. Andersen’s of Denmark Ice Cream
View venue4.7(966)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Dessert Spots Darling Harbour11. Rivareno Gelato Barangaroo
Located near Barangaroo Reserve, this spot works well as part of a waterfront walk. It's close enough to Darling Harbour but slightly less congested.
View venue4.5(2,849)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Dessert Spots Bondi12. Mapo Bondi
Eastern beaches residents have their own Mapo location. Convenient if you're based in or visiting the Bondi area.
View venue4.8(453)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gelatissimo Darling Harbour | 69/100 | 4.8(1,759) | $$ | Darling Harbour | — |
| Gelato Messina Rosebery | 68/100 | 4.7(1,882) | $$ | Alexandria | — |
| Yo-Chi | 67/100 | 4.9(460) | $$ | Coogee | — |
| Gelato Messina Circular Quay | 67/100 | 4.6(1,798) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| French Riviera Icecreamery | 67/100 | 4.9(454) | $ | Bondi | — |
| Mapo Newtown | 67/100 | 4.7(1,156) | — | Newtown | — |
| Cow & The Moon | 67/100 | 4.6(3,612) | $$ | Newtown | — |
| Yo-Chi | 67/100 | 4.7(1,111) | $$ | Surry Hills | — |
| KOI Dessert Bar | 66/100 | 4.5(2,855) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Andersen’s of Denmark Ice Cream | 66/100 | 4.7(966) | — | Darling Harbour | — |
| Rivareno Gelato Barangaroo | 66/100 | 4.5(2,849) | $$ | Darling Harbour | — |
| Mapo Bondi | 66/100 | 4.8(453) | — | Bondi | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which dessert spot is best for a quick visit?+
Gelatissimo Darling Harbour and the two Gelato Messina locations in the CBD and Circular Quay are all designed for walk-up service, making them ideal for grabbing something fast.
Are there dessert spots good for sitting down?+
KOI Dessert Bar in the CBD is specifically positioned as a dessert bar where you can sit. Most others are primarily take-away, though some locations may have limited seating—it's worth checking ahead.
Which areas have the most dessert options?+
Darling Harbour has at least three spots listed, while Newtown has two. These are your best bets for comparing options within a small radius.
What's the difference between gelato and ice cream?+
Gelato is typically denser and served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, which can make flavours taste more intense. Several venues on this list specialise in gelato, while others focus on traditional ice cream.
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