When the midday sun starts to bake the ancient stones of the Old City and the boulevards of Bodakdev, Ahmedabad turns into a place in desperate search of a cool grace. Finding the perfect drink here is a sentimental tradition, a way to find a moment of peace amidst the sweltering afternoon. From nostalgic baraf golas that remind us of school times, to rich and creamy falooda kulfis and fancy gelatos, here are 9 summer refreshments in Ahmedabad that are essential for keeping your cool.
Astoria Juice Corner
Astodia Juice Corner is a landmark of Ahmedabad’s traditional drinks scene. It acts as an intergenerational hub, making it the perfect spot for locals to gather for an evening treat. Their Kesar Falooda is the undisputed star of the menu. This classic blend of milk, vermicelli, and basil seeds is made special with a fragrant touch of saffron. The rich, creamy milk offers a cooling sensation that provides instant relief from the scorching heat.
When: 9:30 am to 3 am
Where: Astodia Darwaja, Old City, Raipur, Khadia
Someshwar Ro Ice Centre
Forget the risky street popsicles that might ruin your vibe. Someshwar RO Ice has given our beloved Baraf Gola a premium makeover. They have ditched the dodgy industrial ice and synthetic dyes for Reverse Osmosis alkaline water and natural fruit syrups. Their viral Exotic Fruit Gola is a massive shout, served inside a hollowed-out watermelon shell and packed with a cornucopia of fresh mangoes, grapes, and kiwis.
When: 6:30 pm to 12:30 am
Where: 6 Ground Floor, Polyclinic Building, Bodakdev Road, Premchand Nagar Society
Chaaswala
Chaaswala has taken the Gujarati staple, buttermilk (chaas), and given it a brilliant glow-up. If you need a quick respite from the scorching heat, this is your go-to spot. Their classic salted, masala, and ginger-infused buttermilk are perfect for keeping your digestion on track when the summer humidity tries to slow you down.
When: 8:30 am to 11:30 pm
Where: Multiple outlets
Asharfi – King of Kool Kulfi
For decades, Asharfi has reigned supreme as the master of condensed milk desserts. Their kulfi is much denser than your average ice cream, providing a lingering cooling effect that makes it a staple of the post-dinner summer routine. Whether you are diving into the protein-packed Roasted Kaju Badam or the seasonal Hafoos Mango, it’s the ultimate way to chill.
When: Noon to midnight
Where: Multiple outlets
Kudrati Kahumbo
Kudrati Kahumbo has become a prominent fixture in Ahmedabad. The brand distinguishes itself by rejecting artificial colours, preservatives, and added sugars, opting instead for a focus on authentic ingredients. Their Fruit Shot gives a nutrient-dense cooling effect. These outlets have become indispensable for the post-work crowd in areas like Bopal and Memnagar, offering a refreshing respite that avoids the high glycemic impact of conventional sodas.
When: 11:30 am to 11:30 pm
Where: Multiple outlets
Shankar’s Ice Cream Library
If you are tired of the same old vanilla and chocolate, it’s time to hit the books at Shankar’s Ice Cream Library. A curated collection of flavours, this spot is a total magnet for the youth. They specialise in tropical profiles specifically engineered to tackle the Ahmedabad heat. Their Orange Tender Coconut is a zesty bestseller, while the Afghan Rose Pista Chilgoza offers a traditional Persian taste. For those keeping it light, the Cranberry Jambu is a brilliant, health-conscious choice.
When: 10 am to midnight
Where: Park West, 142, Be Alive Media Road, PRL Colony, Bodakdev
Easy Boba
Moving away from the traditional liquid refreshments, the next on the list is Easy Boba. This spot focuses on cold-brewed teas and coffees paired with tapioca pearls or fruit-filled popping boba. Their range includes fruit-infused options like Litchi Watermelon and Summer Berries. For those who prefer a more traditional tea profile, they also serve Thai teas, such as Chatramue Red and Jasmine Green.
When: Noon to midnight
Where: E-33, Ground Floor, Titanium City Centre, Shyamal
Santushti shakes and more
If you view summer cooling as a high-calorie mission, Santushti is your gold standard. They specialise in high-viscosity, indulgent blends that sit between a refreshing drink and a dessert. Known for their heavenly gulp philosophy, these shakes are really thick, rich, and designed for those who want their cooling with a serious side of decadence. Whether you go for the Ferrero Rocher or the brownie-infused masterpiece, you get a chilled mouthfeel.
When: 11 am to 3 am
Where: Mithakhali, Navrangpura
Fresh Moments – Healthy Food Cafe
Rounding off our list in Bodakdev area, Fresh Moments offers a sophisticated, wholesome alternative to the usual sugar-laden summer stalls. This spot has gained a dedicated following for creating healthy treats, especially among the city’s early birds and breakfast enthusiasts. The standout feature here is the ability to customise your drink with granola and fresh fruit.
When: 8 am to midnight
Where: 18, Ground Floor, Shivalik Avenue, Bodakdev