Limited-time cinema-inspired desserts celebrate Melbourne International Film Festival
Carlton’s Glo Gelato is turning up the heat — and the nostalgia — this winter with two playful, movie-inspired creations for the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF). Running from July 29 to August 26, these limited-edition desserts channel the energy of the big screen and the charm of old-school cinema snacks.
Just steps away from some of Melbourne’s most beloved festival venues, Glo Gelato is the perfect pitstop for a pre-show indulgence or a post-film wind-down. And for MIFF 2025, they’ve gone all-in on the popcorn theme, complete with a working popcorn machine in-store to set the mood.
The Lava Cake: Sweet, Salty, Hot, Cold, Crunchy — All in One Bite
For $14, this decadent dessert starts with a soft, warm chocolate cake hiding a molten centre of buttery popcorn ganache. Slice into it and watch the popcorn-infused filling ooze out, mingling with a scoop of silky fior di latte gelato. A drizzle of salted caramel and a scattering of fresh popcorn finish the dish, delivering a hit of contrasting textures and flavours — sweet and salty, hot and cold, soft and crunchy.
The Popcorn Shake: Liquid Popcorn Fudge
Also priced at $14, this over-the-top shake blends Glo’s rich, chewy Icky Sticky gelato with house-made popcorn milk to create a thick, creamy drink that tastes exactly like liquid popcorn fudge. It’s topped with salted popcorn for that extra crunch and served with a wide straw, so you can sip, crunch, and repeat.
Why It Works for MIFF
Melbourne’s love affair with cinema is just as strong as its passion for food. With MIFF’s annual program filling theatres across the city, Glo Gelato’s playful creations offer a delicious nod to classic movie snacks while adding a distinctly Melbourne twist. Whether you’re catching a late-night screening or soaking up the festival atmosphere, these treats are an experience in themselves.
When: July 29 – August 26
Where: Glo Gelato, Carlton
Price: $14 each
Perfect For: MIFF-goers, dessert lovers, and anyone chasing a cinematic sugar rush