Italians
just seem to have a knack for gelato, the national sensation
otherwise known as ice cream.
Rich,
creamy, and intensely flavored, gelato is a special treat
for both native Italians and especially for tourists who
flock to gelato stands or cafes to take a well-earned break
from all that sightsighting.
Below,
check out our review of some of the best gelato to be had
in Italy - starting with Rome - a mecca for gelato lovers
worldwide ...
Best
Gelato in Rome
San Crispino
The number one location on many "Best Gelato"
lists, San
Crispino serves up gelato in simple cups, (don't ask
for a cone, they don't believe in them) but the flavors
here are some of the most intense you'll find anywhere.
Via della Panetteria 42, near the Trevi Fountain.
Giolitti
Considered Rome's best gelateria until San Crispino took
the coveted title, Giolitti
still serves up rich and creamy servings in cones or cups,
as well as comfortable chairs and tables to help savor the
moment. Via degli Uffici del Vicario 40, near the Pantheon.
Pelacchia
A
full service bar and restaurant, Pelacchia
also happens to serve up some of the best gelato in town.
(Try the rich and creamy amaretto.) 103/107 Via Cola di
Rienzo, near the Vatican and Castel Sant'Angelo.
Ciampini
High
atop the Spanish Steps lies this casual patio restaurant,
specializing in whipped cream-topped concoctions and the
creamiest, dreamiest chocolate gelato anywhere. Ciampini
has a second location at 29 Piazza de San Lorenzo in Lucina.
Best
Gelato in Florence
Vivoli
Often cited in the guide books as the place to go in Florence,
its booming popularity has somewhat diminished its luster.
Via Isole delle Stinche 7, near Piazza Santa Croce.
Gelateria
dei Neri
A huge selection of flavors that are constantly changing
with most of them excellent, especially the fresh fruit
flavors. Signoria Via dei Neri 20r, behind the Piazza della
Signoria.
Perche
No!
One of the city's oldest gelaterias, Perche
No! (Why Not!) specializes in experimental flavors,
intensely fruity sorbettos, as well as a famous creme caramel
concoction. Via dei Tavolini 19/r, near the Duomo.
Best
Gelato in Venice
Caffe
Paolin
This combination bar and gelataria is one of the most popular
in Venice, especially in summer when the limone (lemon)
and other refreshing fruit flavors are hugely popular with
tourists. Campo Santo Stefano, San Marco.
Gelateria
Il Doge
A
very popular take-out gelateria features something for everyone
ranging from light granitas to intensely rich and chocolatey
gelatos. Dorsoduro 3058/a, Campo Santa Margherita.
Best
Gelato in Milan
RivaReno
Along with traditional flavors like pistacchio, hazelnut
and custard cream, RivaReno
specialties include intense mango and white chocolate with
rice crispies! 8 Viale Col di Lana.
Caffe
Victor Hugo
Go for the gelato, but stay for the sheer elegance
of Victor Hugo where, during the colder months, the hot
chocolate is equally famous. Via Spadari.
also
see -> Rome
for Kids
