Pune on My Plate: Ice cream parlours amp up the game as summer arrives early

Meridian Ice Creams

Meridian, a well-known ice cream spot on FC Road, is set to ring in the summer by launching its Mango Festival on April 1. Rahul Raisinghani, the store manager, shares that this year’s selection will feature new mango-based flavours alongside their regular seasonal offerings.

“We always try to introduce flavours that align with current trends. Last year, we introduced Tiramisu when the dessert was gaining popularity,” says Raisinghani. He also mentions how this year, they have “planned something new that Pune hasn’t seen before.”

While mango takes centre stage, the store has also introduced ‘Death by Chocolate’, a rich and indulgent treat for chocolate lovers. Raisinghani mentions how customers love brownie the most, making it the best-selling chocolate flavour. “Honey nut crunch and red velvet are very famous, and the tiramisu and biscoff have recently gone viral, and a lot of people come here for those too,” he says.

Rajmandir Ice Creams

Over at Rajmandir Ice Creams on DP Road, the focus remains on natural, preservative-free ice creams. Jatin Patel, a staff member, recommends their latest summer launch: blueberry cheesecake.

“Our ice creams don’t contain cornflour, custard powder, or gelatin. We stick to using milk and cream to keep the flavours authentic,” says Patel.

One of their most popular flavours, red peru (guava), continues to be a customer favourite. With a growing preference for natural desserts, Rajmandir’s offerings appeal to those who want a balance of taste and tradition.

Khatri Bandhu

“We started in 1989 with just one cart and two flavours – mango and gulkand. My brother Girish was in 10th grade, and I was in 7th. We wanted to earn and at least manage our study expenses,” says Rahul Khatri, owner, Khatri Bandhu. Today, Khatri Bandhu has nearly 20 outlets across Pune and also in cities like Nashik, Nanded, and Latur, but it has stayed true to its roots with traditional pot ice cream.

“Our ice creams are made the old-fashioned way, using a container filled with ice and salt to freeze the ingredients,” explains Khatri. “We only use fruits, milk, sugar, and cream, with a shelf life of 90 days… Mango and custard apple remain our most popular flavours, keeping our customers coming back every year,” he adds.

As the sun turns up the heat, Pune’s ice cream parlours are bringing their best to the table or rather, the cone. From classics to trendy flavours, there’s no shortage of ways to cool down and treat your taste buds. This simple pleasure of enjoying a cold, creamy treat remains a timeless way to embrace the summer.

(Riddhi Wadhwani is an intern with The Indian Express)