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West London › Kensington › Old Brompton Road Area › Oddono's South Kensington
Oddono's South KensingtonB+Worth Trying
14 Bute St, South Kensington, London SW7 3EX
· Ice cream shop
· 4.7/5 Google (1229 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Excellent classic Italian gelato with standout pistachio, hazelnut and chocolate at wallet-friendly prices; expect queues at peak times and skip the reheated waffles.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Oddono's delivers exceptional gelato quality with authentic Italian flavors and outstanding value that justifies its loyal following across South Kensington. Friendly, efficient service and a charming street-side location create an appealing grab-and-go experience, though occasional texture inconsistencies during peak times and limited seating prevent a higher grade. Best enjoyed as a casual neighborhood destination rather than a destination venue.
Restaurant Summary
On a lively South Ken side street, this gelateria feels warm and bustling without trying too hard. Lines form on sunny weekends, but staff mostly keep things moving with friendly efficiency. One guest summed it up simply: "the pistachio tasted like real nuts, silky and not too sweet." There are benches outside and a relaxed grab-and-go vibe. The cooking approach is classic Italian gelato, not experimental—think clean, focused flavors like pistachio, hazelnut, stracciatella and dark chocolate. Texture skews creamy and sometimes a touch soft, which some adore and others find melty on hot days. Waffles are reheated rather than cooked to order, so stick to cones, tubs, affogato or a gelato shake for the best experience. Families do well here: small sizes, approachable flavors, and staff who will provide extra cups and spoons when needed. Sorbets cover dairy-free, gluten-free cones show up in reviews, and prices for kids stay friendly. Seating is limited, so plan to enjoy your scoops on the pedestrian street.
At a Glance
- Classic Italian gelato with standout pistachio, hazelnut and chocolate
- Excellent value for London; mediums feel generous
- Peak-time queues and occasional understaffing slow service
- Waffles are reheated and underwhelm
- Limited seating; primarily takeaway with street benches
What Sets It Apart
- traditional_Italian_gelato_craft
- strong_student_and_local_following
- affogato_and_shakes
What People Love
- Creamy, clean flavors that taste of real ingredients
- Reliable post-dinner treat with quick service off-peak
- Fair prices for quality in central London
- A go-to for students and locals over the years
Points of Concern
- Queues can hit 10-15 minutes on weekends; service slows if only one scooper is working
- Portioning can vary by server at busy times
- Waffles and some hot drinks disappoint compared with gelato
- A few reviews question additives; most diners still praise flavor and texture
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£6-10 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose classic nut flavors or stracciatella for best results
- If heat is high, get a tub over a cone to reduce drip
- Consider 500 ml take-home for groups at £9.75
Perfect For
- Post-museum dessert stop near South Kensington Station
- Casual date-night sweet finish
- Family treat after dinner
- Grab-and-go affogato on a stroll
Location Insights
Area: Buzzy pedestrian street near museums and tube; popular with locals, students and visitors.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe and well-lit, late-evening footfall due to dining and transport hubs.
Nearby: Steps from South Kensington Station, near museums and cafes; outdoor benches and lively street seating nearby.
South KensingtonSouth Kensington features a sophisticated dining scene with a variety of upscale restaurants, cafes, and bistros catering to both locals and visitors. The area is characterized by elegant Victorian architecture and a calm, cultured social atmosphere, popular with families and professionals alike.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday11:00–23:30
Saturday11:00–23:30
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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