Super 7: The Best XL Gelatos, Soft Serves and Mochi Options at Miami Restaurants
These decadent desserts are keeping us cool with these creamy treats
Abbale TLV
This dessert at Abbale can transport you to Tel Aviv without the flight. Sweet tooth fans take note of this sesame seed infused Tahini Soft Serve. I mean, they even have halva sprinkled on top for texture and taste. Inspired by the Middle East, Chef Sam Gorenstein created this masterpiece by incorporating vegan date honey, halvah, olive oil and Maldon Salt.
Pro Tip: It’s available in both locations that include Aventura and South Beach. @abbaletlv // 2956 NE 199th St. (or) 864 Commerce St.
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Gaia
Brand new to the F&B scene in SoFla’s SoFi neighborhood, aside from being obsessed with everything about this restaurant, from the service to the oh-so-instagram-able Sea Bream Carpaccio, the quote ‘saving the best for last’ applies here. Gaia’s menu boasts a slew of seductive desserts. But the yogurt gets an OMFG award. Referred to as Pagoto Giaourti, it’s a steep $42 dollar Frozen Yogurt with honey, caramelized walnuts & loukoumades ... And let it be known that it’s so good, it makes me want to change my name to Athena.
Pro Tip: It’s worth the splurge. It also comes with a decadent side of donuts…so, just do it. Perhaps with Sauternes, your life would be furthermore complete! @gaia__miami // 801 S. Point Dr.
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Gigi Rigolatto
From France to the newly opened hot-spot and hotel, the Delano - Gigi opened its doors last month. And aside from the really chic vibes within, their 1 ft. tall (I swear) Pistachio Gelato is served with perfectly crunchy pistachios that are caramelized and EVOO! WHAAAA?! It’s a dream on your tongue!
Pro Tip: It’s massive so make sure you eat it as quickly as possible. And it is most-certainly intended to be shared! @gigi_rigolatto_miami // 1685 Collins Ave.
Forte dei Marmi
Forte dei Marmi was the OG inventor of Pistachio Gelato in Miami. A destination that’s frequented by well-healed epicurean lovers, they use the best ingredients in town. Even in their desserts. The Gelato - it’s enormous and perfect to share. Topped with Honey Onyx, just do it!
Pro Tip: Like a proper Italian, take it down with their Grappa di Tinganello. Yes, it’s part of the Marchesa Antinori group! @fdmmiami // 150 Ocean Drive.
Cipriani
Similarly to its name ‘Vanilla Ice Cream à la Minute,’ it’s whipped for you the moment you order this Vanilla creamy paradise at Cipriani Downtown Miami. Take your pick - drizzle it with chocolate syrup and if you’re a fan of nuts, they provide a side of caramelized hazelnuts and almonds.
Pro Tip: Be decadent and try their Vanilla Meringue Cake which originated at Harry’s Bar in Venice! @cipriani // 465 Brickell Ave.
Cote
Proof that something so simple can be so good, Cote’s milky Soft Serve in a paper cup (yep, you heard me) makes you want to holler for more. If you wonder what differentiates this from - let’s say, Carvel. Well, first of all it’s Michelin. And secondly, it’s prepared with soy sauce caramel. Yep, you heard us.
Pro Tip: It’s complimentary when you order the ‘Butcher’s Fest.’ @cotemiami // 3900 NE 2nd Ave.
Sushi Bichi
With the most vast assortment of Mochi on any menu in Miami, Sushi Bichi imports specific Mochi flavors weekly from California. In case you’ve been sleeping under a rock for the past 20 years, it’s not a soft serve or a gelato, but rather a traditional Japanese rice cake made from pounded glutinous rice filled with fresh ice cream.
Pro tip: If they offer the Black Sesame, get two orders. And the Ube (Purple yam) which is a hard find these days. I encourage you to ask for them to be extra frozen. @sushibichi // 7330 Ocean Terr.