In Israel, a Single Scoop of Ice Cream Has Become a Luxury Item

By summer 2026, a single scoop of ice cream at many of Israel’s leading chains already costs 20 to 24 shekels, and a family outing can easily climb to 100 to 150 shekels. The article argues that what used to be one of the cheapest treats has turned into an expensive purchase, despite still drawing long lines.

At Golda, a scoop costs about 21 shekels, while at Anita it is about 21 to 24 shekels depending on the recent price change. The piece says five scoops alone can top 100 shekels, and once drinks, toppings, or another dessert are added, the bill can approach the price of a family meal. The author notes that this is especially frustrating because the product is neither rare nor imported, but simply ice cream.

The article says the data show a real rise in prices between 2025 and 2026. At Golda, a scoop increased from 21 to 22 shekels, about 4.8%, and a large serving rose from 33 to 35 shekels, over 6%. At Anita, a scoop rose from 23 to 24 shekels, half a kilo from 72 to 78 shekels, about 8.3%, and a kilo from 120 to 128 shekels, about 6.7%. At Lagenda, a scoop increased from 23 to 24 shekels and a kilo from 126 to 129 shekels. Deli Cream and Otello did not record significant changes.

The piece says Israelis have grown used to gradual price creep, so the shock came slowly as a product that once cost 10 to 12 shekels crossed the 20-shekel mark. Businesses blame rising costs for ingredients, rent, and wages, but the article says consumers also face higher expenses. It concludes that demand still supports the higher prices, since crowded parlors signal to chains that they can keep charging more.