Did you know Naturals, Pabba's, Rustom are on World's Most Iconic ice creams list?

It’s summer. And a good summer season calls for an “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream” moment!

With the sun scorching overhead and hot winds making us dread stepping outside, all we crave is something cold, creamy and capable of fixing our mood. And right on cue, the international food guide TasteAtlas released its latest list of the Top 66 Ice Creams in the World, and India, of course, found a spot.

Not for some artisanal dessert or fancy nitrogen theatrics or experiment, but for something unapologetically desi.

India’s ice cream global spotlight moment

The food guide released its latest April edition of the Top 66 Ice Creams in the World, and India’s traditional frozen dessert clinched the sixth spot.

Any guesses?

It's Delhi’s kulfi!

Kulfi holds a special place in every Indian’s heart. It is the OG version of ice cream that generations in India have grown up with. It doesn’t just serve condensed milk topped with bold flavours of kesar or cardamom, but also a deep sense of nostalgia.

Since we are already talking kulfis, the language of scoops, and summer cravings, we thought it’s also the perfect time to talk about some of the iconic ice cream parlours in India that have been serving mouth-melting scoops for ages.

Interestingly, the food guide also mentioned five Indian ice cream parlours on its 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams in the World list earlier.

India's iconic ice creams

Before Netflix and chill, Indians often found respite at these dessert havens.

And here's all the legacy Indian parlours on the list:

K. Rustom & Co., Mumbai

This place will always find a spot whenever someone talks about iconic food destinations in Mumbai. Established in 1953, the USP of this legendary spot lies in its crispy simplicity — a thick brick of ice cream tucked between two crunchy wafers. That’s it.

While mango remains a crowd favourite, the place offers an array of flavours, including seasonal fruit specials that keep regulars coming back.

Apsara Ice Creams, Mumbai

With over 50 flavours made using premium ingredients and no artificial preservatives, the brand balances classic favourites with inventive new combinations in every scoop. Today, it has several outlets across India. And if you ever happen to drop by one, don’t forget to try the guava flavour.

Pabba's, Mangaluru

Founded in 1975, this dessert destination has long been a favourite among city dwellers. Its signature offering, Gadbad, continues to be an evergreen choice for customers. And there's nothing wrong with it except how irresistible it can be.

The indulgent sundae is a scrumptious medley of layered ice creams, fruits, nuts, jelly and different flavours coming together in one loaded glass.

Corner House, Bengaluru

Established in 1982, the ice cream shop’s must-try dessert is Death by Chocolate. Look for no moderation here, it's about being indulgent in the truest and chocolatey sense ever.

A decadent mix of moist chocolate cake, creamy ice cream, gooey chocolate sauce, crunchy nuts and a cherry topping, this dessert is pure indulgence for every chocolate lover.

Natural Ice Cream, Mumbai

As the name suggests, the brand is famous for its natural flavours, seasonal specials and fruit-forward creations. Its reigning favourite continues to be Tender Coconut.

Made using fresh coconut flesh, this rich and creamy scoop brings the essence of the coast to every bite.

Indian summers and its relationship with ice cream and frozen desserts is stronger than any situationship can ever be. So, it's safe to say, our dessert game is doing pretty well globally too.

P.s: which flavour are you ordering next?