Utopia Ice Sumner










MondayClosed.
TuesdayClosed.
WednesdayClosed.
ThursdayClosed.
FridayClosed.
Saturday11:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Sunday11:00 am – 6:00 pm.
It’s a bold move naming your business after the ultimate paradise, but it couldn’t be a more accurate description of this beach side nirvana. Entering through the quaint eden-esque courtyard to reach Utopia Ice’s counter is a treat in itself: Step through tiny wrought iron gates, past lawn furniture adorned with colourful cushions and blankets, a wooden swing seat, children’s toys and crucial shade-providing umbrellas.
At some point of your stroll, you will be drawn to the large blackboard hanging on the pink wall, above the white subway tiles and below the hanging pendant lights. Get excited. This blackboard is big for a reason.
Here lists the inventive ice cream flavours: Asparagus and cream cheese (surprisingly refreshing and creamy); white chocolate and olive oil (sweet and smooth); sea salt caramel, cashew and popcorn (bathe us in this), and Vietnamese coffee (a creamy, ice cold coffee hit). If these sound familiar, it is because owners Mandy and Sebastian (a chef with more than 20 years experience in restaurants and pastisseries) grew their following at the Christchurch Farmers Market, before settling into a more permanent possy in the seaside town.
Still weekly members of the Riccarton Bush markets, this is where they source a lot of their fresh local ingredients. Organic milk, gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options are abound, as are an enticing spectrum of toppings including corn chips and whipped coconut.
In winter, cuddle up under a rug next to the large gas heaters and enjoy a peanut butter hot chocolate or spiced cacao with some gluten-free Belgian waffles featuring fruit compotes, bananas and a selection of sauces. Oh, and if you’re looking for us, we’ll be cooling off (or snuggling up) in Sumner’s Shangri-La.
Words by Morgan Tait & Photography by Nancy Zhou
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
15 Wakefield Avenue, Sumner, Christchurch
Nearby Places
Sumner Social

The arrival of Sumner Social warrants high fives all around because, at last, the coastal suburb has a top-notch bar and restaurant with ocean views.
Miss Peppercorn

Miss Peppercorn is a modern eatery, celebrating the fragrant and mouth-numbing flavours of the owner's hometown in the Chinese province of Sichuan.
Niche Coffee + Eatery

Niche Coffee + Eatery, the latest addition to the hospitality scene of Sumner, fits like a glove to the seaside village.
Harakeke Florist

This one-of-a-kind floral shop by the seashore is the product of creativity and appreciation for native foliage, Sumner and the greater Christchurch community.
Similar Places
Native Café

Next time you find yourself Sydenham side of Christchurch town, stop at Native Café for a cup of top-notch coffee and an honest bite to eat.
O.G.B

A speakeasy-style bar, OGB serves up an old-school approach to hospitality.
Mona Vale Homestead & Pantry

Mona Vale Homestead & Pantry in Christchurch creates an idyllic setting for a beautifully appointed restaurant, perched along the Avon River.
Terrace Edge Wines

The classy yet laid back winery atmosphere you’ve been looking for.