Coffee lovers are in for a treat this summer as illy transforms its signature espresso into everything from designer ice cream and edible-cup affogatos to Michelin chef sustainable recipes that reduce food waste..
Across June, the premium Italian coffee brand will partner with some of London’s most celebrated names in food, drink and design to showcase coffee in surprising new ways, inviting Londoners to discover that their favourite espresso can be enjoyed far beyond the morning cup.
The season kicks off with a collaboration at Anya Hindmarch’s Ice Cream Project 2026, the cult summer pop-up that has become famous for turning iconic flavours into imaginative ice cream treats. Running from 5 June to 16 August at The Village Hall in Belgravia, this year’s menu will feature an exclusive illy espresso ice cream, the rich 100% Arabica coffee blend infused into Devonshire cream, a scoop designed for long summer afternoons.
From 22nd June, illy is teaming up with Badiani Gelato to launch a limited-edition affogato across Badiani’s 12 London stores. Combining Badiani’s signature Buontalenti gelato with a freshly-poured shot of illy’s velvety smooth espresso, the dessert will be served in an edible vegan cup made of wheat and water, reducing waste and ensuring enjoyment to the last bite.
Meanwhile, at Taste of London in Regent’s Park (17-21 June), illy will bring coffee to centre stage through a programme of tastings, masterclasses and cocktails. Visitors can sip Espresso Martinis made using Dick Bradsell’s original 1985 recipe, while green Michelin-starred chef Chantelle Nicholson of Apricity will demonstrate inventive ways to cook with coffee, including how coffee grounds can be given a delicious second life in the kitchen.
To round off the celebrations, illy will mark the 10th anniversary of its South Kensington café with a special one-week offer from 22nd – a FREE special serve of Regenerative Oat Cold Foam. Turning this special serve fully regenerative for a week will show how great coffee and responsible sourcing go hand in hand. The serve will use illy’s regenerative Arabica Selection Brasile Cerrado Mineiro Coffee Beans, regenerative milk and plant-based milk alternatives.
Event Listings:
Anya Hindmarch Ice Cream Project x illy
Dates: 5 June – 16 August 2026
Location: The Village Hall, Belgravia
Feature: Exclusive illy espresso ice cream
Taste of London
Dates: 17–21 June 2026
Location: Regent’s Park
Experience: Espresso Martinis, coffee masterclasses and cooking demonstrations with Chantelle Nicholson
Badiani x illy Affogato
Launch: 22 June 2026
Locations: Badiani stores across London
Experience: Limited-edition affogato served in an edible vegan cup
illy South Kensington Anniversary Menu
Dates: 22-28 June 2026
Location: illy Caffè South Kensington
Experience: Free regenerative special serve on offer