Gelatissimo Manuka

Gelatissimo Manuka brings the authentic taste of freshly churned Italian gelato to the heart of Canberra's south side. Located in the Manuka Shopping Precinct on Flinders Way in Griffith, ACT, this popular ice cream shop is part of the beloved Gelatissimo chain, known for crafting classic and innovative flavours right in store. Whether you're craving a rich chocolate scoop, a refreshing fruit sorbet, or a creative monthly special, the team at Gelatissimo Manuka serves up a vibrant dessert experience in a casual, family-friendly setting.

This isn't just any ice cream stand. True to its name, Gelatissimo focuses on gelato, the dense, creamy Italian cousin of ice cream, made fresh on site with high-quality ingredients. The shop's two large display cabinets are a kaleidoscope of colours, from deep, dark Triple Chocolate to the bright, citrusy Yuzu Mojito Sorbet. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, perfect for a post-dinner treat, a weekend family outing, or a quick pick-me-up while shopping. With clear options for dining in, taking away, and even contactless delivery, Gelatissimo Manuka fits seamlessly into the rhythm of a busy day in Griffith.

Signature Flavours and Menu Highlights at Gelatissimo Manuka

The heart of Gelatissimo Manuka is its ever-changing selection of churned-fresh gelato and sorbet. While you'll always find signature staples, the shop also features a Flavour of the Month and seasonal specials, making every visit a potential new discovery. The menu, viewable online at their website, bursts with options from creamy classics to bold, modern combinations.

Gelato Creations

Google Maps reviewers consistently highlight the depth of flavour in the gelato. Favourites like Cookie Dough Gelato and Salted Macadamia Gelato are frequently praised for their perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The Triple Chocolate flavour is a standout for those who prefer a more decadent, cocoa-rich experience. A reviewer named AJ C noted that it's "not too sweet," a common sentiment that speaks to the expert balance achieved in the churning process.

Refreshing Sorbets

For a lighter, dairy-free option, the sorbets receive significant acclaim. The Manto Sorbet and the Yuzu Mojito Sorbet are specific points of pride. One customer, Alexander Howen, was so thrilled with his Yuzu Mojito Sorbet that he forgot to take a photo of the display cabinet—a testament to how engaging the flavours are. The fruitiness is described as "balanced" with a refreshing, clean finish.

Beyond the Scoop

Gelatissimo Manuka is more than just a scoop shop. The store offers indulgent milkshakes for a rich, blended treat. For special occasions, you can order custom gelato cakes, and for children's parties, they offer fun Bambino gelato cones, making celebrations sweeter and simpler. Joining their loyalty program delivers a free birthday gelato, a perk that local guide Soniqbuoy specifically calls out as a delightful bonus.

The Gelatissimo Manuka Experience

Stepping into this bright shop in the Manuka Shopping Precinct, you're greeted by the sight of artfully arranged gelato and a team known for its friendly, helpful service. The atmosphere is casual, making it a comfortable spot for everyone from families with young children to couples on a date night. The focus is on the product and the moment of enjoyment it brings.

The experience extends beyond the store's four walls. The business is deeply integrated into the local community, actively encouraging repeat visits through a membership program that rewards loyalty and celebrates your birthday. The ability to order online for delivery means you can enjoy the gelato at home, while the core offering of dine-in and takeaway caters to the bustling foot traffic of the area.

Customer service is a clear priority. The owner and support team are highly responsive to Google Maps reviews, personally thanking customers for positive feedback and addressing any points raised. This active engagement shows a dedication to ensuring every visitor leaves with a smile. The reviews paint a picture of a place where the service is just as warm and inviting as the store itself.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Gelatissimo Manuka holds a solid 4.1-star rating on Google Maps, based on 161 reviews. This rating, in the competitive Canberra dessert scene, signals consistent quality and customer satisfaction. Many reviewers are Local Guides with extensive history on the platform, lending weight to their opinions.

A recurring theme across reviews is the exceptional flavour quality. Terms like "fantastic flavours" and "delicious" appear frequently, with specific praise for the creaminess and authentic taste. Soniqbuoy, a Local Guide with over 698 reviews, calls the flavours "fantastic" and highlights the added value of the membership program. AJ C, with 534 reviews, appreciated the "balanced fruitiness, sweetness and creaminess" of a banana-strawberry sample, pointing out that the Triple Chocolate avoided being overly sweet.

The friendly and personal service is another prominent positive trait. Reviewers feel welcomed and note the staff's willingness to offer samples to help customers decide among the many tempting options. The owner's consistent, personalized replies to reviews, such as the messages from "Annabell, Gelatissimo Support Team," demonstrate a business that listens and cares about its reputation. This level of attentiveness transforms a simple transaction into a valued customer relationship.

While the overall sentiment is very positive, the 4.1-star rating suggests there are occasional minor critiques, as is natural for any high-volume food service operation. However, the overwhelming majority of feedback praises the product and the staff, confirming that Gelatissimo Manuka has earned its place as a local favourite for a sweet treat.

Location and Hours in Griffith, ACT

Gelatissimo Manuka is conveniently situated at Shop T07/17 Flinders Way, Griffith ACT 2603, Australia. The shop is located on the ground floor (Etage G) within the well-known Manuka Shopping Precinct, placing it right in the heart of one of Canberra's premier dining and retail destinations. The Manuka area is known for its vibrant cafe culture, boutique shopping, and a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends when the nearby Manuka Oval draws crowds for sports events.

Its position in Griffith, a suburb of South Canberra, makes it an easy stop for residents of Kingston, Narrabundah, and Forrest, as well as a popular destination for anyone spending a day in the parliamentary triangle area.

Shoppers can grab a cone after browsing the boutiques, while moviegoers at the nearby cinema can enjoy a pre-show dessert. The central location makes it highly accessible.

Opening Hours

Based on the latest Google Maps information, the store's weekly schedule is designed to capture the after-lunch, evening, and weekend crowds:

• Monday: 12:00 - 21:00
• Tuesday: 12:00 - 21:00
• Wednesday: 12:00 - 21:00
• Thursday: 11:30 - 22:00
• Friday: 12:00 - 22:00
• Saturday: 12:00 - 22:00
• Sunday: 12:00 - 21:00

Note that hours may vary on public holidays. It is always a good practice to check directly with the store or on Google Maps before making a special trip.

Common Questions

Does Gelatissimo Manuka offer dairy-free or vegan options?

Yes. The sorbet range at Gelatissimo Manuka is dairy-free. Flavours like the popular Yuzu Mojito Sorbet and Manto Sorbet are excellent options for those avoiding dairy. It is always a good idea to confirm specific ingredient information with staff if you have severe allergies.

Can I order a custom gelato cake from this location?

Yes, you can. Torten (cakes) can be ordered directly from Gelatissimo Manuka. For details on flavours, sizes, and lead time for ordering, it is best to speak with the team in-store or call them at +61 2 6193 3039.

Is there a loyalty or rewards program at Gelatissimo Manuka?

Absolutely. The store actively promotes its membership program. Members receive a complimentary gelato on their birthday and gain access to exclusive information, including the Flavour of the Month. You can sign up in-store.

Does the store offer delivery?

Yes. Gelatissimo Manuka offers contactless delivery. You can order online through their website or partner apps, making it easy to enjoy their gelato from the comfort of your home or office.

What are the most popular gelato flavours?

According to numerous customer reviews and the product menu, standout favourites include Triple Chocolate, Salted Macadamia Gelato, Cookie Dough Gelato, and various seasonal sorbets like the Yuzu Mojito Sorbet. The friendly staff are always willing to offer samples to help you find your new favourite.

Is parking available at the Manuka Shopping Precinct?

As a central shopping precinct, Manuka offers ample public parking options, including a multi-story car park and street parking. This makes visiting Gelatissimo Manuka convenient, even during busy peak evening and weekend times.

From its prime position in Griffith's Manuka precinct to its award-worthy array of freshly made gelato and sorbet, Gelatissimo Manuka offers a consistently delightful dessert experience. The warm, friendly service and deep community ties make it more than just a place to grab a cone—it's a neighbourhood institution. We encourage you to compare feedback from other dessert lovers on Ilistify to feel confident in your choice the next time a gelato craving hits.