Mapo’s gelato is always seasonal and churned in-store: on King Street in Newtown, Campbell Parade in Bondi and here, on the Darlinghurst end of Oxford Street.

It’s no wonder Matteo Pochintesta’s gelato is a favourite around town.

The scoops are smooth, creamy, and far from too sweet. The team uses the sweetness of ripe fruit whenever possible, to reduce the amount of sugar added.

Mapo’s flavours range from classics (chocolate, hazelnut, fior di latte, salted pistachio) to house specials (Pepe Saya salted caramel, golden kiwi, pear and cinnamon, black sesame – to name a few). While each location has the same core menu, there are suburb-specific scoops too. 

Exclusively in Darlinghurst, Sicilian-style granita is made fresh daily. Flavours change monthly, but have included the likes of a zingy watermelon and lime, with an optional topping of mascarpone soft serve.

On weekends, you’ll want the “full Sicilian set”: granita, cream and brioche. 

The Darlinghurst store is bright and inviting. Inside, a yellow-tiled counter and glassy facade create a summer-y feel, and tree-stump-esque stools by Special Studio sit out the front.