Review: Joelato, a gelateria in Stockbridge

There are two Joelato locations in Edinburgh, both serving exceptional gelato made on a Perthshire farm. One is found in the excellent Bonnie & Wild marketplace in the St James Quarter, but the one turning heads and gathering crowds is the tiny ice cream shop in Stockbridge. A queue snakes from its door on most days, leaving passers-by with a simple question: Is it worth the wait?

The answer is a resounding yes, but with one small piece of advice. This is a gelato that commands your attention and is absolutely worth lining up for.

The Gelato

The secret to Joelato’s success is the quality. The gelato is crafted with care at Over Finlarg Farm in Perthshire, using fresh milk from well-cared-for cows. This farm-to-cone approach results in a stunningly rich and creamy texture that puts Joelato in the top tier of Edinburgh’s ice cream scene. It is, without a doubt, a contender for the city’s best gelato.

On any given day, you’ll find around half a dozen flavours to choose from. Be warned: the shop’s popularity means they often sell out of the most sought-after options, so it pays to get there early. Alongside the classic gelato, they frequently offer dairy-free sorbets, ensuring vegan customers are well catered for.

Our best advice is to think ahead. “Don’t just get one scoop, you’ll be straight back in the queue before you know it.” This is an ice cream so delicious that a single serving simply isn’t enough. We recommend getting the largest tub you can carry, that way you can savour it without the regret of not having more.

The Venue

The Stockbridge parlour is small. There is often only one person serving, which might seem insufficient for the queue outside. However, the staff are masters of their craft: friendly, incredibly efficient, and blessed with the patience of a saint, especially when faced with indecisive customers. There simply isn’t physical space for a second member of staff to join them.

Yes, it’s a little on the expensive side, but you’re paying for quality ingredients in the heart of Stockbridge. While you can find cheaper ice cream elsewhere in the city, you will struggle to find better. The price reflects the premium product and the prime location.

Things to do in Stockbridge

Stockbridge is one of Edinburgh’s most desirable neighbourhoods, known for its village feel, independent shops, and thriving cafe culture. If you’re planning a visit, it’s an ideal base to explore the city.

The area is well-connected. While it doesn’t have its own train station, it’s a short bus or taxi ride from both Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket, putting the rest of the UK within easy reach. For those flying in, Edinburgh Airport is easily accessible by tram or bus.

Accommodation options are plentiful, with everything from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses. You can browse a wide selection of places to stay on sites like Expedia and Hotels.com. Once you’re settled, take a stroll through Inverleith Park, visit the nearby Royal Botanic Garden, or catch a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse. For a truly unique Edinburgh experience, consider a whisky tasting at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society on Queen Street.

Overall

Joelato is a superstar of the Edinburgh ice cream scene. The combination of high-quality, farm-fresh ingredients and expert craftsmanship makes it an absolute must-try. If you’re in Stockbridge and the sun is shining, you will not regret joining the queue. It’s a delicious, premium treat that is absolutely worth it.

Correction 9th Sep: The original version of this review said that Joelato owned the farm in Perthshire. They do not.