Gelatissimo Canberra Centre

Gelatissimo Canberra Centre brings the authentic taste of artisan gelato to the heart of the nation's capital. Located on Level 1 of the bustling Canberra Centre at 148 Bunda Street, this store is part of a much-loved Australian chain that has been sharing its passion for fresh, handcrafted gelato since 2002. The Canberra Centre location is a vibrant, casual spot where locals and visitors alike stop by to enjoy classic Italian-inspired flavours alongside innovative, Australian-influenced creations. Every scoop is made fresh in-store daily, using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients that have made Gelatissimo a household name across the country.

The menu at this location is built around the chain's signature range of over 45 flavours, with plenty of options to suit all preferences. You'll find everything from rich, creamy classics like Chocolate and Hazelnut to lighter fruit-based sorbets that capture the taste of the season. What sets the in-store experience apart is the sheer variety on offer — from indulgent signature creations to a dedicated range of vegan-friendly and made-without-dairy options that ensure nobody misses out on a sweet treat. Whether you're craving a simple cup or cone, a loaded gelato dessert, or a thick, blended milkshake, the team scoops it up with a smile.

Menu Highlights at Gelatissimo Canberra Centre

The flavour cabinet at this Canberra Centre store is a rotating gallery of gelato artistry. While the precise selection changes regularly, the range is designed to balance nostalgic favourites with adventurous, limited-edition specials. The core menu draws on the expertise of Gelatissimo's master gelatieri, who craft each batch using less fat and less air than traditional ice cream, resulting in a denser, more intensely flavoured product that is always served at the perfect temperature for maximum creaminess.

Signature Gelato Scoops

Fans of the chain consistently praise the depth of flavour in the signature gelatos. Standouts from the brand's award-winning lineup include the GOLD medal-winning Chocolate and Hazelnut, both recognised at the Australian Dairy Industry Awards, alongside fan favourites like the Decadent Cookie Dough and Cookies and Cream, which took home SILVER at the same competition. The Romantic Espresso, a GOLD winner at the Royal Sydney Cheese and Dairy Show, delivers a bold coffee hit that pairs beautifully with the brand's indulgent Choc Caramel Fudge, a creation featuring Lindt chocolate. Those with a passion for fruit can dive into the award-winning Lemon and Mango Sorbets, which are celebrated for their bright, clean taste and refreshing finish.

Vegan & Dairy-Free Options

A key part of the Gelatissimo philosophy is making gelato accessible to everyone. The store carries a dedicated selection of vegan-friendly and made-without-dairy flavours, regularly including award-recognised options such as the Dragonfruit & Lychee, Vegan Peanut Butter Brownie, and Triple Choc Vegan Cookie Dough. These are not afterthoughts but carefully crafted recipes designed to deliver the same creamy mouthfeel and rich taste as the traditional dairy bases, using fruit, nut milks, and premium chocolate inclusions.

Gelato Desserts, Cakes & Shakes

Beyond the scoop, the Canberra Centre store offers a range of gelato-based desserts that turn a simple treat into a full-blown indulgence. Thick, blended milkshakes are a popular choice for a creamy take-away drink, while the store also takes orders for custom gelato cakes, perfect for birthdays and celebrations. For those who want to enjoy the experience at home, take-home packs are available, allowing customers to bring their favourite flavours back to the freezer. The store also supports online ordering, making it easy to grab a pre-selected pack on the go.

The Gelatissimo Canberra Centre Experience

Stepping into the Canberra Centre store, you are immediately met with the bright, cheerful energy that defines the Gelatissimo brand. The space is designed to be a casual, welcoming stop during a shopping trip — a place to take a break, catch up with a friend, or treat the family without the formality of a sit-down restaurant. The open display counter puts the colours and textures right in front of you, and the staff are trained to offer tastings so you can find your perfect match before committing to a scoop.

The store is explicitly set up for take-away, making it an ideal choice for those strolling through the Canberra Centre. There is also a contactless delivery option available for those who prefer to enjoy their gelato at home. The chain's commitment to freshness means the gelato is made in small batches right on the premises, a fact that loyal customers often cite as the reason for the consistently excellent texture and taste.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Gelatissimo Canberra Centre holds a 3.8-star rating on Google Maps based on 93 reviews, placing it as a solid, well-recognised option in the city's competitive gelato scene. Reviews for this location paint a detailed picture of a store that, for many, delivers a genuinely delicious product in a convenient setting.

Positive feedback frequently centres on the quality of the gelato itself. One local guide who had previously avoided the store in favour of nearby alternatives was won over after a recommendation: "I tried it at a friend's and found it very tasty, so I decided to give it a chance. I loved the Pistachio and Cheesecake gelato." The owner's response to this review highlighted the team's pride in their product and their gratitude for the kind words. Another reviewer praised specific flavours like Pistachio and Sorbet, underscoring the strength of the classic recipes.

However, reviews also point to inconsistencies in customer service. A notable exchange between a customer and the owner involved a reported incident where a staff member refused to refill a water bottle, with a reviewer stating they personally witnessed the interaction and were disappointed by the response. The owner's reply was prompt and professional, thanking the customer for the feedback and indicating the matter would be taken seriously. A longer-term review from five years ago also mentioned the store's former location in the David Jones building, noting that while it was once a prime spot, more recent experiences had been mixed. These reviews suggest that while the gelato quality can be excellent, the overall experience may vary depending on the day's staffing, a common theme in high-turnover retail environments.

Location & Accessibility in Canberra

The store is situated inside the iconic Canberra Centre, a major shopping destination on Bunda Street in the city's central business district. Being on Level 1 of this major retail hub places it directly in the path of shoppers, office workers, and tourists exploring the parliamentary triangle and nearby attractions. The central location makes it an easy walk from Canberra's key landmarks, including the Australian National University and Commonwealth Park, and it is well-served by public transport, bike routes, and available parking facilities.

The Canberra Centre itself provides a full range of accessibility features, and as a modern shopping centre, level access is available via lifts and escalators. While specific parking arrangements within the centre are separate from the store, customers can use the general Canberra Centre car park, which offers paid parking with direct access to all retail levels.

Hours, Ordering & Contact

Gelatissimo Canberra Centre operates with varied hours across the week to match the busy rhythms of the shopping centre. Doors are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on standard weekdays, with extended late-night trading until 9:30 PM on Thursdays to align with late-night shopping in the centre. Weekend hours are set at 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Saturdays and a shorter 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM window on Sundays. These hours make it a convenient stop for a daytime treat, an after-work dessert, or a relaxed weekend outing. The store can be reached directly by phone at +61 2 6248 8171 for any questions about flavours, cake orders, or group requests. Online ordering for delivery and pickup is available through the brand's central website.

Common Questions

What are Gelatissimo Canberra Centre's opening hours?

Standard hours are Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Thursday from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. These times may vary on public holidays, so it's a good idea to check directly before visiting on a holiday.

Does this store offer vegan or dairy-free gelato?

Yes, Gelatissimo Canberra Centre carries a dedicated range of vegan-friendly and made-without-dairy flavours. The selection rotates but regularly includes popular options like Dragonfruit & Lychee, Vegan Peanut Butter Brownie, and Triple Choc Vegan Cookie Dough. Staff can guide you to the day's available choices.

Can I order a custom gelato cake from this location?

Yes, gelato cakes can be ordered from the Canberra Centre store. Contact them directly by phone on +61 2 6248 8171 to discuss options and place an order. Online cake ordering may also be available for select stores through the brand's website.

Is there seating inside the store?

The store is primarily a take-away operation designed for on-the-go enjoyment while shopping in the Canberra Centre. There is no dedicated seating inside the store, but the centre has general seating areas nearby.

Does the store accept cash and card payments?

Contact the store directly to confirm their current payment methods. The chain typically accepts major credit and debit cards, but it's always best to verify for this specific location.

Whether you're a long-time lover of authentic artisan gelato or simply looking for a reliable sweet stop in the heart of Canberra's premier shopping destination, Gelatissimo Canberra Centre presents a bright, flavour-forward option that reflects a brand built on freshness and obsessive attention to taste. To find more local gems like this one and make an informed choice for your next outing, compare business listings, reviews, and hours on Ilistify before heading out.