The charming Hungarian city of Gödöllő has found a deliciously unique way to commemorate its 60th anniversary as a designated city in 2026. The internationally acclaimed Sissi Ice Cream Parlor has crafted a special flavor called “Gödöllő60” that pays homage to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as “Sissi”, while celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
A Royal Passion for Violets
Queen Elisabeth’s love affair with violets was legendary throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This wasn’t just a casual preference: it was a deep, all-consuming passion that influenced every aspect of her personal life. She indulged in violet ice cream, sipped violet syrups, and savored delicate candied violets. Her signature perfume was crafted from violet essence, and she insisted that her private rooms be decorated in various shades of this beloved color.
Violets, Empress Sissi’s favorite flowers
When the queen visited Gödöllő Palace, the staff would ensure that the gardens bloomed with violets in her honor. This thoughtful gesture reflected the deep respect and understanding of her preferences, creating an environment where she could feel truly at home away from the formal constraints of Vienna.
Where Royal Taste Meets Local Tradition
The genius of the “Gödöllő60” ice cream lies in how it marries Queen Elisabeth’s sophisticated palate with the authentic flavors of the region. The creators at Sissi Ice Cream Parlor didn’t just focus on royal preferences—they dug deep into local history to create something genuinely representative of their community.
The choice to include sour cherries and almonds speaks to Gödöllő’s agricultural roots. These ingredients aren’t random additions but reflect the area’s heritage dating back to Antal Grassalkovich I, who is considered the founder of modern Gödöllő. His extensive orchards once flourished across the landscape, and their memory lives on today in the names of local streets throughout the city.
The Perfect Flavor Symphony
The final creation is a masterpiece of balance and complexity. The base features smooth, creamy almond ice cream that provides a rich, nutty foundation. This is elevated by a violet-infused sour cherry sauce that brings together the queen’s favorite flower with the region’s signature fruit. The experience is completed with a crunchy almond layer that adds textural interest and reinforces the local connection.
“Gödöllő60” ice cream
This combination creates multiple layers of flavor and meaning with each spoonful. The violet essence provides an elegant floral note that would have pleased the queen, while the tartness of the sour cherries cuts through the richness and adds brightness. The almonds, used both in the ice cream base and as a crunchy element, tie everything together while honoring the historical orchards that once defined the landscape.
Master Craftsmanship Behind the Creation
The artisans behind this special creation bring impressive credentials to their work. Ice cream master Andrea Koncz, working alongside her husband János Koncz, has been perfecting her craft for 36 years. Their dedication to quality has earned recognition far beyond Hungary’s borders.
The Sissi team has claimed the title of “Ice Cream of the Year at Lake Balaton” and consistently places among the top competitors in the national “Ice Cream of the Year” competition. Their international recognition reached new heights in September 2025 when they became the only Hungarians to receive the prestigious “Master of Quality Award” at the Scirubetta Festival in Italy: a significant achievement in the competitive world of artisanal ice cream.
More Than Just a Sweet Treat
The “Gödöllő60” ice cream represents something deeper than a simple anniversary celebration. It demonstrates how food can serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting historical figures with contemporary communities. By honoring both Queen Elisabeth’s refined tastes and their own local heritage, the creators have produced something that tells a story with every bite.
Sissi Ice Cream Parlor in the center of Gödöllő
This approach to commemorative cuisine shows how small businesses can contribute meaningfully to cultural preservation. Rather than creating something generic or purely commercial, Sissi Ice Cream Parlor has crafted a product that educates people about their local history while providing a genuinely delicious experience.
The ice cream also highlights the importance of local ingredients and seasonal eating. By featuring fruits and nuts that grow naturally in the region, the creators are supporting local agriculture and maintaining connections to the land that have existed for centuries.
