You can’t go wrong with gelato if:
- you are looking for a refreshing and delicious treat
- you are hot
- you are in Italy
- you are breathing
- [add any other excuse]
In case you come from the moon and you have no idea what’s what, Gelato is a frozen creamy dessert made with milk, cream, sugar and various flavours. It is similar to ice cream, but with less air and fat, which makes it denser and smoother. This is one of the main differences between gelato vs ice cream. Be ready to the ultimate Gelato experience in Venice.
Where does gelato come from?
Gelato has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times (blablabla). Some of the earliest ancestors of gelato can be traced to China (really?), where rice pudding was frozen with snow (nuts!) and to Persia, where grape juice was poured over snow (interesting!). In the Middle Ages, Arabs introduced sorbet, a frozen mixture of fruit juice and sugar, to Europe.
The modern gelato was born in Italy, where it was perfected by various chefs and artisans over the centuries. One of the most famous gelato makers was Bernardo Buontalenti, who created a recipe with milk, egg yolks and honey for the Medici family in Florence in the 16th century. Another was Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, who opened the first gelato shop in Paris in 1686. If you want to learn how to make gelato at home, you can follow some of their recipes or use a gelato maker. It will be never good as in the following places, though. Get over it.
What are the flavors and benefits of gelato?
Today, gelato is enjoyed all over the world and comes in countless flavors and varieties. Some of the most popular flavours are chocolate, vanilla, pistacchio, hazelnut, strawberry and lemon. These are some of the best gelato flavours that you can find in any gelateria or supermarket. Gelato can also be combined with fresh fruits, nuts, cookies, cakes or syrups for extra indulgence. Nothing compared to the German Eiscafes. That’s too much. Some flavours should not be tried for decency. On the other hand, basil was nice.
Gelato is not only tasty, but also healthy (😆). It contains less calories and fat than ice cream and more natural ingredients. It is also rich in protein, calcium and vitamins. Gelato can be eaten as a dessert or as a snack at any time of the day, but it can be also the alternative for lunch.
Where can you find The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice?
If you want to experience the authentic Italian gelato, you don’t have to travel far. You can find some of the best gelaterias right here in Venice. Here are some of the places where you can enjoy a scoop or two (hundreds) of this frozen delight:
Gelateria Gallonetto
- This family-run gelateria has been making gelato since 1935 using traditional methods and natural ingredients. You can choose from over 40 flavours (on rotation) including classics like crema and nocciola, as well as seasonal specialties like chestnut and fig
- Open every day from 9:00 to 23:00
- Address: Salizada S. Lio 5727, 30122 Castello – Venezia
- This is one of the best places to find gelato near me, come and visit Timmy at LaPortineria!
Gelateria SuSo
- This modern and cozy gelateria offers artisanal gelato made with organic milk and fresh fruits. You can find flavors like tiramisu, yogurt and mango, as well as vegan and gluten-free options.
- Open every day from 10:00 to 23:00
- Address: Calle della Bissa 5453
- Alternative address: Salizada San Grisostomo 5801, Cannaregio
Bacaro del Gelato
- Bacaro del Gelato: This small and charming gelateria offers a wide selection of flavors made with high-quality ingredients and no artificial additives. You can find flavors like pistachio di Bronte, caramelized figs and ricotta cheese cake.
- Open every day from 10:00 to 23:30.
- Address: Fondamenta de la Misericordia 2499, 30121 – Venezia
Gelateria Nico
- This historic gelateria has been serving gelato since 1937 and is famous for its gianduiotto, a chocolate and hazelnut gelato bar dipped in whipped cream. You can also try other flavors like zabaione, amarena and torroncino.
- Open every day from 9:00 to 24:00
- Address: Fondamenta Zattere al Ponte Longo 922