Indonesian ice cream has a rich and diverse history, reflecting the country’s cultural heritage and culinary creativity. Among the many iconic ice cream flavours, two stand out as particularly notable: the Spaghetti Ice Cream from Ragusa Es Italia and the Tutti Frutti from Zangrandi Ice Cream.
Both of these flavours have been recognised by TasteAtlas as part of the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams in the world, showcasing the unique and innovative spirit of Indonesian ice cream makers.
Spaghetti Ice Cream at Ragusa Es Italia in Jakarta
Located in Central Jakarta, Ragusa Es Italia offers a dining experience that is as nostalgic as it is delightful. Ragusa Es Italia, a legendary ice cream shop parlour in Jakarta, has been a beloved institution since 1932. Founded by Italian brothers Luigi and Vicenzo Ragusa, this iconic establishment is renowned for its unique and visually stunning dessert the Spaghetti Ice Cream.
The ambiance is further enhanced by the occasional busker playing familiar good old songs, adding to the charm of the place. The Spaghetti Ice Cream is the star of the show, and it is easy to see why it has become a must-try for visitors in Indonesia.
This dessert is not made with actual pasta but vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or durian ice cream that is pressed through a machine to resemble spaghetti. The ice cream is then topped with creamy strawberry sauce and crushed peanuts to give it the appearance of a plate of pasta. The addition of succada (a type of fresh fruit) adds an earthy flavour that balances out the sweetness of the ice cream, making it a delightful treat for the senses.
The Taste and Texture
The texture of the Spaghetti Ice Cream is almost sorbet-like, which complements the crunchy peanuts and succada perfectly. While some might find the sweetness a bit overpowering, the ingredient combination of the earthy flavour from the peanuts and the fruit garnish ensures that the taste is well-balanced. The presentation is so convincing that it almost feels like you are enjoying a plate of pasta, making it a visually stunning dessert that is as much about the experience as it is about the taste.
A Must-Try for Traveller
Tutti Frutti Ice Cream at Zangrandi in Surabaya
Zangrandi, the ice cream shop where Tutti Frutti is served, has a rich history dating back to 1930. Founded by Renato Zangrandi, an Italian expatriate in Surabaya, the shop has been a staple in the city’s culinary scene ever since. Initially known as “Tutti Frutti,” the ice cream shop has undergone changes in name and ownership over the years but has retained its original charm and recipes.
Indulge into the Indonesian Unique Taste
Tutti Frutti is one of the classic flavours offered at Zangrandi. It is shaped like a triangle and features a mix of various fruits, creating a delightful combination of flavours and textures. The Tutti Frutti ice cream is known for its rich of milk, sweet fruity taste.
One of the unique aspects of Zangrandi is its commitment to traditional recipes. Tutti Frutti is using time-honoured methods, ensuring that each scoop captures the essence of the past. This dedication to tradition, combined with its nostalgic setting, makes Zangrandi a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience authentic, old-world charm.
They also have other drink specialities like Rockin Sat Nite and Dazzling Night. It is a must-try ice cream culinary when you are visiting Indonesia to enrich your taste!
Explore Your Taste of Indonesian Sweet Dessert!
Indonesian ice creams have made a significant mark on the global culinary scene, particularly with the recognition of Ragusa Es Italia’s Spaghetti Ice Cream and Zangrandi Ice Cream’s Tutti Frutti in the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams by TasteAtlas. These unique flavours not only reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage but also its innovative approach to traditional desserts.
Ragusa Es Italia’s Spaghetti Ice Cream, with its vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or durian flavours pressed through a machine to resemble spaghetti, offers a visually stunning and deliciously refreshing treat that has captivated locals and tourists alike. Similarly, Zangrandi Ice Cream’s Tutti Frutti, a medley of fruit flavours, has been a beloved classic in Surabaya for nearly a century.
These iconic ice creams not only contribute to Indonesia’s culinary identity but also highlight the country’s ability to blend traditional techniques with modern creativity, making them must-try experiences for anyone exploring the world of ice cream. Their inclusion in the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams by TasteAtlas is a testament to their enduring popularity and cultural significance, ensuring that these delightful desserts continue to bring joy and excitement to ice cream enthusiasts around the globe.
