If you’re a self-proclaimed die-hard sweet tooth, you’ll be glad to learn that the capital has an array of tempting stops stocking sweet treats. Whether you’re in need of an afternoon pick-me-up or are desperate to quench your late-night cravings, add these go-to local spots to your list for your next dessert run.

Anita Gelato

With humble origins in a 1998 Mediterranean family kitchen, Anita Gelato has since become a well-loved international sensation. With a seemingly endless selection of flavours, plus a bunch of soy-based, vegan and sugar-free options, there’s a scoop of rich and creamy goodness for everyone. Find the dreamy pastel blue store in the heart of Civic and treat yourself to a cheeky cone!

Three Mills Bakery

If you’ve caught a case of the Monday blues, Three Mills Bakery never fails to craft delectable comfort food guaranteed to renew. Find them at one of their various stores or your local café or supermarket, and take your pick from the fan-favourite chocolate croissants, classic apple Danish or cinnamon escargot. If you’re like us and just can’t get enough, they’ve got you covered with their ‘Bake At Home’ varieties, so you can get your pastry fix without getting out of your PJs!

Spilt Milk Bar

Beat the scorching summer heat with a refreshing bespoke gelato at Spilt Milk Bar. With an ever-changing menu of innovative and seasonal flavours on offer, this Dickson ice cream shop has gained a loyal army of fans. Think white chocolate gelato topped with fresh mango and raspberry jam or the peanut butter, caramel swirl and brownie masterpiece. With a ‘cow to cone’ philosophy, you can rest assured every scoop is churned fresh every day, on-site, with all-natural ingredients. Your next sugar kick is sorted!

Le Bon Café Patisserie

Tucked away in the Gungahlin shops is the charming French Cafe Patisserie, Le Bon Café Patisserie. Giving Canberra locals a taste of Europe’s delicacies, they offer innovative takes on all the nostalgic favourites. Spoil yourself to a well-deserved cinnamon scroll, fruity Danish pastry or almond croissant and you’ll be instantly hooked!

Sweet Bones

The rustic vegan bakery and café, Sweet Bones is always readily stocked with a treasure trove of cakes, pastries and nibbles. Visit them in Scullin or Braddon and try the cake special of the month (December is a cinnamon cake with spiced frosting and a layer of ginger cookie dough), the classic home-made Cinnabon or a bite-sized chocolate biscuit to-go!

Honey Toast

Nestled in Canberra Centre’s bustling Asian food hall, Tiger Lane, is the Vietnamese-inspired dessert bar, Honey Toast. Visit the eatery at night and witness the signature sweet honey toasts in their full glory. You can expect a decadent Japanese milk bread base, topped with deliciously eccentric toppings including ice cream, fruit, biscuits and drizzles.

Future Swirl

The little pop-up ice cream stand, Future Swirl, is making waves as Australia’s first handcrafted oat milk soft serve. Grab a creamy vanilla or chocolate swirl (or a mix of both) in a cup or waffle cone and go crazy with your selection of toppings, including hard choc drizzle, warm Biscoff or strawberry coulis. Making appearances on Lonsdale Street and Haig Park Markets this year, we can’t wait to see where they appear next.

 

Need another way to beat the summer heat? Check out Canberra’s best happy hours!