The only dessert shop in Pune that makes everything fresh, truly everything!
We recently visited Rihla on NIBM Road to try their gelatos, sorbets, and desserts. It turned out to be a very different experience from your usual dessert places in Pune.
Everything is made in-house
What really makes Rihla stand out is their approach to making desserts. Almost everything is made in-house, and when we say everything, we really mean it. From jams and jellies to pralines, nothing is outsourced. They don’t use compounds, synthetic essences, artificial colours, or anything artificial at all. The flavours come purely from fresh ingredients sourced from the market, depending on what’s available at the time.
Jamun Sorbet: Most unique experience
One of their latest and most interesting additions is the Jamun Sorbet. It’s made using whole jamuns, including the skin. What’s fascinating is that it recreates that familiar dry-mouth feeling you get after eating jamuns, something you don’t usually expect in a dessert. It’s unique and very true to the fruit.
Pistachio Gelato: An all-time favourite
Their Pistachio Gelato is an all-time hit and sells out quickly every time a fresh batch is made. The pistachios are ground into a paste using a machine similar to traditional stone grinders used for idli batter. It takes 24 hours of grinding and more to get the consistency. The result is a creamy, rich gelato with a deep roasted pistachio flavour and a satisfying aftertaste.
Raspberry Gelato: Texture that stands out
The Raspberry Gelato is equally interesting. It includes real raspberry seed bits, which add a slightly crunchy texture. This makes it very different from the usual smooth and artificial raspberry flavours you find elsewhere.
Rum and Raisins: Classic with a twist
The Rum and Raisins Gelato also stands out. The raisins are soaked in Old Monk rum and then cooked till jam like consistency, which removes the alcohol but keeps the flavour intact. These raisins are then used in the gelato, giving it a rich and classic taste.
Vanilla like you’ve never had before
Even their Kerala Vanilla Gelato is something special. The vanilla beans are proudly sourced from Kerala, and they use whole beans, no essence or extracts. You can actually see tiny vanilla bean specks in the gelato. The flavour is strong, natural, and has a beautiful aftertaste that feels very different from regular vanilla desserts.
Flavours that keep changing
The menu at Rihla keeps changing depending on the availability of fresh ingredients, which keeps things exciting. There are a few regular flavours available every day, but for the latest updates, you can check their Instagram stories. They post daily updates about the flavours available and where you can find them.
A must-visit for dessert lovers
If you enjoy desserts made with real ingredients and honest flavours, Rihla is definitely worth a visit. It’s a place where you can truly taste the difference.
Address: Shop no 9, Surya Apartment, Surya Society, NIBM Post Office Rd, Surya Society, Kondhwa, Pune.
Contact: 8149545519