tep out of the State Theatre Centre or wander up William Street, and you’ll quickly spot Chicho Gelato – a colourful, buzzing gelateria that’s become a bit of a Northbridge institution. “Chicho” means “cheeky kid” in Italian, and the space absolutely lives up to the name, with a fun, modern fit-out, inventive flavours and a relaxed, family-welcoming vibe that makes it an easy stop with kids in tow.
Inside, you’re greeted by a long, gleaming cabinet of gelato and sorbet, usually around 20 flavours, all churned fresh daily. Chicho is known for its creative combinations and seasonal specials, which change each month, so there’s usually something new to tempt adventurous tastebuds. Think flavour combos along the lines of lavender and honeycomb, rosewater, white chocolate and pistachio, or mascarpone and rhubarb, alongside more classic kid-pleasers like chocolate, vanilla, and fruity sorbets. If you’ve got children who prefer to stick to the familiar, they’ll be well catered for, while grown-ups can branch out into more gourmet territory.
Scoops are available in a tub or cone, and staff are generally happy for you to taste a flavour or two before committing – useful when you’re trying to guide indecisive little ones. The texture of the gelato is beautifully creamy and smooth, and mix-ins like brownie chunks or praline add a fun element that kids love.
Sorbet options are great for dairy-free family members or anyone after something lighter. You can eat in at one of the small tables inside, which is handy for keeping younger children contained, or grab your gelato to go and enjoy it in the theatre courtyard just behind the shop.
The fit-out is bright and stylish without feeling precious, and one of the standout features for families is the free-flowing chocolate tap, which adds an extra bit of theatre to the experience. It’s the sort of detail that kids remember and talk about long after the visit. Chicho also offers coffee and hot chocolate, which is ideal if you’re after an afternoon pick-me-up while the kids enjoy their scoops, or if you’re stopping by in the cooler months.
Chicho Gelato has grown into a small local chain with additional locations in Fremantle and Mount Lawley, and the Northbridge store is still very much at the heart of it all. Being right in the cultural centre, it’s perfectly placed for a pre- or post-show treat, a reward after a city outing, or a fun dessert stop after an early family dinner nearby. With its ever-changing specials, quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot you can return to again and again and still find something new to try.
Chicho Gelato Northbridge
Address: 180 William Street, Northbridge WA 6003
Opening hours: Check current hours via the website or Google Maps, as they may vary seasonally and by day
Official website: https://chichogelato.com/
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, (first as “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life”) Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA for her blog ‘Simply PERTHfect’. You’ll find her checking out the newest foodie spots (brunching, tapas or something a little fancy), as well as fun family activities with the kiddos in tow, so Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
