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Screaming for ice cream during this extra heaty weather? Bencoolen hides Freshio Gelato, which serves delectable gelato sure to please the sweating masses. With a solid 4.9 stars from 1,461 reviews (at time of writing), Freshio Gelato has to be one of Singapore’s most highly rated gelato spots. Why so — were the reviews rigged? I ventured off to Sunshine Plaza to find out.
Upon just opening the door, we were welcomed with utmost enthusiasm by a cheery voice. The jolly attitude is instantly contagious, especially after seeing the grins on both Uncle’s and Auntie’s faces. Having been to many eateries with saddening customer service, I was delighted at how friendly the duo were.
Their excellent service did not stop there but rather improved through the whole dining experience. Uncle immediately handed us hefty samples of their most popular flavours — Watermelon (S$5) and Passionfruit (S$5), and Melon (S$5) were our favourites.
Just love bread 就是爱面包: $1.30 old-school breads & cakes with 30+ varieties by 4th-gen hawker
If that doesn’t convince you of their generosity, Uncle insisted for us to try the flavours we wanted before placing orders, so we wouldn’t regret our decisions later. My serotonin levels maxed out for real.
Freshio Gelato has an the perfect relaxed ambience, a welcome change from the usual cafe bustle. I loved the brightly-lit space and adorable astronaut decor. Right off the bat, I’d say this place is perfect for a catch-up with your loved ones. Do note that the space is on the smaller side, so be sure to avoid the peak hours like I did!
What I tried at Freshio Gelato
Waffles (S$6) are a duh purchase in gelato spots, so I had chosen French Vanilla (S$4.50). You could taste the authentic vanilla bean paste from French Vanilla. I immensely enjoyed this, as most vanilla extracts taste artificial and give a one-sided flavour. Truly a flavour that will forever be a hit, in my humble opinion.
Waffles here were not too out of the ordinary, with a fluffy interior that goes amazingly with the cold treat. What I loved most was the toasty hint which was an amazing contrast to the creamy texture of the gelatos.
The most peculiar would have to be the Panini (S$3.50). Uncle’s eyes sparkled as he gave an in-depth description of what this particular item was. Described as a sensational experience, the Panini is essentially gelato pressed between 2 sides of a brioche bun. It is then fed into a panini press, creating a masterpiece consisting of hot panini and cold gelato.
We had tried the Alphonso Mango (S$4.50), which tasted exactly like Mango Hi-Chew candy. However, I would say that it tastes rather different from the authentic fruit, so keep that in mind.
As for the panini, it truly is sensational. My dining companion lovingly dubbed it as ‘heaven and earth’, adoring how the ice cream was still frozen solid within the warm brioche. Having expected it to fully melt, I indulged excitedly in the unique temperature bun.
Despite all the good comments I’ve already written, my favourite item definitely had to be the Croffle (S$3.50) that I enjoyed with French Vanilla and Melon. I loved how the Croffle had a flakier exterior that did not grow soggy under the gelato’s presence. Spreading your choice of gelato onto the Croffle is truly the best way to go!
Final thoughts
With affordable prices for fresh unique gelato and storekeepers that are kindness-personified? One can surely tell why the place had the well-deserved hype. Say hi to Uncle and Auntie if you are in the area and enjoy a cooling treat on a hot summer day!
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