Your Guide to the Florence’s Finest Gelato Scoops
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Why is Gelato So Good?
Italy’s passion for gelato is undeniable, as evidenced by the annual Gambero Rosso guide, which ranks the nation’s finest gelaterias. These gelato shops are awarded the prestigious Tre Coni (three cones) for excellence in taste, texture, creativity, and service, these gelaterias epitomize the pinnacle of Italian gelato-making.
But what exactly makes Italian gelato so special and sets it apart from other frozen desserts? The answer lies in its intriguing history. Legend has it that in the lavish courts of the 16th-century Medici family, two renowned pastry chefs created a sweet and icy sensation that would forever change the world of desserts. This groundbreaking concoction, a precursor to modern gelato, marked the beginning of a beloved Italian tradition.
Florence undoubtedly played a pivotal role in gelato’s evolution. However, it was in the 17th century that gelato truly began its global conquest. Sicilian Francesco Procopio Cuto brought his gelato-making expertise and innovative machinery to Paris, where he opened the first gelato shop. This Parisian venture, frequented by intellectuals like Voltaire and Rousseau, introduced gelato to a wider audience and solidified its status as a culinary delight.
Credit: Gelateriadeineri.it
Difference Between Gelato and Ice Cream
Have you noticed that gelato and ice cream have a different consistency and texture and wonder why? Gelato boasts a smoother, creamier texture and more intense flavors compared to its icy cousin, ice cream. This difference comes down to science! Gelato uses more milk than cream, less sugar, and is churned at a slower speed with warmer temperatures. This results in less air incorporation and a denser, more decadent treat. Even the calorie count reflects this difference, with gelato typically weighing around 174 calories per 100 grams compared to ice cream’s 244.
How to Spot the Real Artisan Gelato
As long as the ingredients used to craft gelato are fresh, and no preservatives, chemicals, artificial colors or flavors have been used, you should have no trouble identifying genuine artisan gelato.
Here are a few strategies for doing just that:
Say No to Tower of Treats: Avoid gelato skyscrapers or neon-hued marvels that promise flashy displays of treats. Their flashy displays may look appealing but contain additives—real gelato is proudly displays its ingredients like pistachio’s dull brownish-green hue, banana’s greyish-brown tones, and strawberry’s pale pink hues proudly alongside them all.
Metal Containers: For optimal results, gelato should be stored in cool metal containers with lids that provide temperature regulation to preserve its delicious consistency and ensure maximum success.
Comparison: Take your time tasting through Florence’s myriad of gelaterias before making your selection; many offer sample portions beforehand so that you can discover new flavors, textures, and combos; compare similar offerings from multiple gelaterias and choose which is your winner!
The Best Gelaterias in Florence
Now, onto the delicious (and, let’s be honest, most important) part… where can you find the best gelato in Florence?
Italy recently celebrated the victory at the inaugural Gelato World Cup that took place at an international fair dedicated to artisan gelato and pastry in Rimini. Gambero Rosso‘s annual “Gelato Shop Guide” highlights Italy’s finest gelaterias as part of this recognition. This guide awards shops one, two, or three cones based on product quality, ingredients used, and customer service.
In the 2024 edition, two Florentine gelaterias received the top rating of three cones: Gelateria della Passera and I Gelati dei Neri. This award recognizes their high level of service, product quality, ingredients and overall value proposition.
Gelateria della Passera : Renowned for using local Costa d’Amalfi IGP lemons, unique flavors, and exceptional service, this award-winning shop champions local production, using seasonal ingredients and featuring no artificial colors or flavors. Their innovative flavors, like rice ginger lavender, combined with excellent service and a warm ambiance, have garnered them high praise.
Credit: francepizza.fr
Gelateria dei Neri: Offers classic and modern flavors, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Located near Ponte Vecchio or Piazza della Signoria, this gelato shop stands out for its commitment to fresh, natural ingredients. If you are headed to Palazzo Pitti, make sure to stop at this great little place and don’t miss this dessert treasure!
Gelateria della Passera, via Toscanella 15R, across the Arno river, near Boboli Gardens.
Gelateria dei Neri, via De’ Neri 11/R
Online Gelato Reviews
Reviews, which truly define excellence, consistently commend Gelateria della Passera for its freshness, natural flavors, and variety that’s an experience worth trying. But it’s more than just about gelato – friendly service and charming location add that extra sparkle of magic! Gelateria della Passera has made waves on TripAdvisor with over 966 reviews and an astounding average rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Gelateria dei Neri also scored over 2,900 reviews on TripAdvisor averaging out an incredible 4.5 out of 5-star rating! Millions of travelers from around the world reviewed their gelato and showed appreciation also for the service quality, customer satisfaction, and value for money. Gelateria dei Neri has received many outstanding reviews for its freshness, quality, and variety of classic to innovative flavors such as Nutella, Pistachio, and Rice Gelato – with fast service that is friendly, professional, and clean environments, making this place a must-visit destination in Florence for anyone who appreciates authentic artisan gelato.
More Florence’s Hidden Gelato Treasures! 🍨✨
Wait, there is more! The following hidden gems have many passionate fans to celebrate their concoctions.
Gelato di Bondi in Florence has been creating delectable gelato for over four decades—earning multiple accolades including Gambero Rosso’s Tre Coni award as recognition of quality and excellence in 2023.
Perche’ No stands out for its fresh, creamy, and intense hazelnut flavor crafted using Piedmont IGP nuts—which guarantees its quality! Perche No is an idyllic destination for lovers of gelato. Ciro is an ardent owner who uses fresh milk and seasonal fruits like persimmon, pomegranate, fig, and even Korean-style fig chocolate (for added deliciousness!) every morning to craft his delectable flavors. Be sure to visit his shop and witness why Ciro has become such an iconic name throughout Korea!
Vivoli: Situated in an intimate square and famous for its iconic wine door, Vivoli has long been delighting tastebuds for over 100 years. Don’t miss their delicious Buontalenti custard flavored with just the right hint of liqueur; also discover hazelnut, pistachio and aromatic coffee offerings!
Santa Trinita’: Situated near Santa Trinita’ Bridge with stunning views of Ponte Vecchio, this gourmet gelato oasis specializes in gourmet treats made with only premium ingredients— black sesame, salted caramel, tiramisu or Buontalenti flavors are among their renowned selections; all Florence classics!
Carabe: Bring back fond memories of Sicily with Carabe’s distinctive gelato style: more fruit, less milk, and packed full of refreshing flavor! Choose between almond, pistachio, or zesty lemon flavors. Let’s not forget their mouth-watering granite fruity slush that provides the ideal treat on sunny days near Accademia Gallery.
Gelateria de’ Medici: Tucked away in Florence’s suburbs is Gelateria de’ Medici is an under-the-radar gem offering two locations with delicious treats ranging from ginger to rose, sweet to savory, and their special blend of chocolate, orange peels, spices—it is truly an oasis.
Conclusion
So, grab a spoon (or a cone!), wander the charming streets of Florence, and start your adventure into the divine world of Italian gelato!