You Scream, I scream, Most of Us Scream for Lactose Free Options

Content Editor: Alice On

4 Vancouver Dairy-Free Favourites

One of the eternal symbols of Summer is ice-cream. The telling jingles of the ice-cream truck's bewitching song herald the Summer in its full glory. I mean for a bit it also announced murderous clowns in movies such as Kruel (2015), but in the end the lure of ice-cream always reigns supreme. At least that has been my prevailing experience talking to every lactose intolerant person I know.

Like many of my fellow Lactose-Intolerant Deniers my fight song has been - we are not meant to live forever so what is life without tastes? It may seem like a masochistic, lesser of two evils to some, but too often the limited selection of lactose-free options dining out with friends have left much to the imagination in terms of body, flavour and texture. Thankfully, while it may be controversial, I think people, especially in Vancouver (42.9% Asian in ethnic makeup , according to the 2011 Census), aka individuals with the propensity to dash to the nearest restroom after enjoying some dairy products, are recognizing that many of the modern factory farms, produce milk and other products that are not necessarily good for our health. As with many other places in the world, this shift is marked by the growing number of alternatives in the dairy aisle, dedicated mainstream dining experiences and my personal favourite, gelato! Without further adieu, here are our top four favourite Vancouver locations for some delicious, zero compromise treats!

Umaluma Gelato

Currently Canada’s only organic and non-dairy producer, this gelato maker serves non-dairy, 100% plant-based gelato that’s still just as creamy, smooth as the classic Italian confection. Packed with fresh flavours and organic ingredients, check out their instagram for daily flavour specials and neighborhood favourites like Drunken Cherry.

Address: 235 East Pender Avenue, Vancouver

Kokomo

Home of the Cocowhip - a delicious composition of organic bio-fermented coconut powder, plant-sourced stabilizers and coconut water with a colourful range of toppings. Enjoy this guilt-free dessert in the eternal summer of Kokomo happy palm trees and pink accented decor.

Address: 611 Gore Street, Vancouver 

Virtuous Pie

Everything at Virtuous Pie is dairy-free and vegan so you know they didn’t come to play. Citizens of Vancouver, Victoria, and Toronto will be able to bear witness, their pizza game is strong, but they also specialize in handcrafted plant-based ice cream! The collective obsession at Daisycode is currently the Coffee and Donut ice cream.

You can also opt for take-home pints, floats, sandwiches and cones.

Address: 583 Main Street, Vancouver

Mister

Taste the science! Using liquid nitrogen in the production process, Mister is able to rapidly freeze products like their non-dairy options, Vegan Hazelnut and a Vegan Dark Chocolate, at extremely low temperatures for much smaller ice crystals and less air for a denser, fluffier ice cream that doesn’t require stabilizers or fillers. Made with all-natural ingredients, get ready to fall in love at first scoop.

Address: 1141 Mainland Street, Vancouver

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