Ice cream seems to be the food item that unites us all—even the lactose intolerant folks, who are willing to suffer a little bit for this sweet treat (read: this author). With sunny days in the forecast, we thought we’d share some of our favourite spots to grab a scoop.

(And before everyone shouts that we left out their favourite spot, let us remind you that ice cream differs from gelato, and that list is coming soon.)

Earnest Ice Cream

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Earnest Ice Cream is one of the most-suggested stops in Vancouver for anyone with a sweet tooth, and for good reason. With many locations and a selection of monthly rotations (plus some truly excellent vegan options), there’s always something new to try at Earnest. Like the McRib, specific limited-edition offerings have a cult-like following (Oatmeal Brown Sugar, anyone?)—but unlike the McRib, these ones are actually, um, delicious. Expect long lines.

Soft Peaks

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Using organic milk, Soft Peaks is a must-try soft-serve shop in Gastown. It offers fresh, local toppings, with a lean towards Asian flavours such as mango, ube, matcha, and Thai tea. Get your camera ready: Soft Peaks always delivers with a perfect swirled peak and Instagrammable drizzles and toppings. 

Rain or Shine

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Make your next taco Tuesday extra sweet by stopping by Rain or Shine on Cambie Street or West 4th. Available only on Tuesdays, Rain or Shine takes a waffle cone and turns it into a taco shell that comfortably holds two scoops of ice cream.

Mister Artisan Ice Cream

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What sets multi-locale Mister Artisan Ice Cream apart is its use of liquid nitrogen to cool its ingredients. This process rapidly reduces the temperature to ensure smaller ice crystals (read: a creamier and denser ice cream). A made-to-order, silky scoop is crafted before your very eyes as liquid nitrogen smoke fills the mixer; think of this as a dessert with a show.

La Glace

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There’s a reason we say “à la mode” when we want our pie with a side of ice cream: some things are better in French. La Glace is a French ice cream shop tucked away on West 16th. Avenue that uses a creme anglaise base, making it richer and more decadent than other versions. Plus, there are tasting flights available for those dining in—why choose just one flavour when you can have six?