The Lab Nitrogen Gelato

The Lab Nitrogen Gelato is part of a new fad in Australia to have gelato mixed with liquid nitrogen as a method to freeze the product.

TimTam Gelato at The Lab

According to a Wikipedia page, using liquid nitrogen to freeze gelato has advantages over traditional freezing, because the speed of the cooling action means that large ice crystals can’t form, resulting in a smoother consistency.

The Lab Nitrogen Gelato

The Lab, on Melbourne’s Bourke Street, is a great example of what can be done with a simple concept and a bit of creativity. Entering the shop, we are confronted with an industrial laboratory style theme, replete with scientists decked out in lab coats mixing the chemicals together.

The Lab Nitrogen Gelato

The Lab’s rotating menu means that you’re always offered a different selection, although the Tim Tam gelato seems to be a favourite (and, suitably, a regular). After ordering, the chocolate liquid is poured into a mixer, before the liquid nitrogen is added. Bubbling over the top, the vapour from the liquid fills the air temporarily, disguising the scientist.

The Lab’s Tiramisu Gelato

As the air clears, the machine mixes on, and soon enough the thick frozen mixture is spooned out and into a cup, topped with Tim Tam crumble. The taste is delicious – smooth and perfectly chocolatey and malty. Other flavours include the PB & J (Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jam), Salted Caramel and Popcorn, Tiramisu, and Lemon Lime and Bitters sorbet.

While nitrogen gelato feels very much like the flavour of the month, the longevity of the concept is yet to be seen. Either way, The Lab in Melbourne’s CBD does it well, as we love to savour the experience whenever we can!

Salted Caramel Gelato with Popcorn at The Lab

Details

Food: 8/10

Ambience: 8/10

Service: 8/10

Cost: All flavours: $6 per cup

188 Bourke Street, Melbourne

(03) 9077 5354

The Lab’s Facebook page

Sunday – Thursday: 12pm – 10:30pm

Friday and Saturday: 12pm – 11:30pm