3 Best Gelato Shops in Hoboken, NJ (2026 Guide)
Hoboken has so much to offer — from family-friendly activities to incredible food and nightlife. But did you know this city is also home to some of the best gelato spots in New Jersey? Whether you're a long-time local or just visiting, Hoboken's gelato scene is not to be missed. With traditional Italian methods and a creative spin on flavors, these shops bring serious dessert game to the table. Let's dig into the best places to grab a scoop (or two).
- il laboratorio del Gelato: 500 Washington St
- KikiLu Gelato Artigianale: 900 Garden St
- Julietta: 423 Washington St
- Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: 537 Washington St
- Rating: 4.9 stars (142 reviews)
- Open daily 11am to midnight
- Known for premium vegan options
- Exotic rotating flavors: il laboratorio
- Gluten-free / vegan: KikiLu
- Italian cafe experience: Julietta
- Premium vegan ice cream: Van Leeuwen
- il laboratorio: Daily 12pm–10pm
- KikiLu: Tue–Sun 1:30pm–10pm
- Julietta: Mon–Sun 8:30am–9:30pm+
- Van Leeuwen: Daily 11am–12am
Hoboken's Best Gelato Shops
il laboratorio del Gelato
Opened in 2002, this gelato shop has become NYC's leading restaurant wholesaler for handcrafted gelato. With close to 300 flavors, il laboratorio del gelato adheres to the original Italian method of gelato to create outstanding gelato and sorbet: dense texture, superior consistency, and natural flavor. All of the products are handmade, and all are welcome to enjoy. The Hoboken location is open seven days a week, from noon to 10 pm (Sunday until 9 pm). Known for rotating exotic flavors including ube, Turkish fig, and seasonal specials.
If you are drawn to gelato and want to explore more of Hoboken's best restaurants and food spots, our updated 2025/2026 guide covers the full dining scene across every neighborhood in the city.
KikiLu Gelato Artigianale
Not only is there gelato served, but KikiLu also offers a Cannoli and espresso bar. All visitors love the rich gelato and old-fashioned atmosphere. The gelato shop also offers gluten-free, vegan, and non-dairy options for customers with dietary restrictions. KikiLu Gelato serves flavors such as purple sweet potato, nocciola/hazelnut, espresso gelato, dark chocolate stracciatella, and many more. Cash discounts are available. KikiLu is open Tuesday through Sunday, 1:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Closed Mondays.
KikiLu's espresso bar makes it a natural stop for anyone exploring the city's café culture. If you want to plan a full day around Hoboken's best spots for coffee and dessert, our guide to Hoboken's best coffee shops pairs well with a KikiLu gelato afterwards.
Thinking about making Hoboken your home? From the gelato to the waterfront to the commute into Manhattan, our team can show you why so many clients never leave.
Talk to Our TeamJulietta
A newer addition to Washington Street, Julietta is an Italian gelato café that has quickly earned its place among the city's best dessert stops. Known for its tiramisu gelato and tiramisu latte, Julietta brings an authentic Italian café experience that goes beyond the scoop. The shop is open for breakfast and through the evening most days, making it as easy to stop in on a weekday morning as it is on a weekend night.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
While technically ice cream rather than traditional gelato, Van Leeuwen arrived on Washington Street in 2024 and has become one of the highest-rated dessert spots in the city. Known for premium ingredients and an excellent range of vegan options, it's worth the stop any time of year. Van Leeuwen is open daily from 11 am to midnight, making it one of Hoboken's best late-night dessert options. A particularly good stop during Hoboken's spring and summer activity season when the city is out and walking.
Hoboken's food scene keeps getting better. The gelato and ice cream spots on this list are just one part of what makes this city a great place to live. If you are curious about what owning a home in Hoboken looks like, our team is ready to walk you through every option.
