The best Gelato in Rome is not hard to find

First of all, let’s be clear on what gelato is, or isn’t. You might be surprised how many people don’t actually know what it is, even if they’ve been enjoying this delicious treat for years. You could be forgiven for thinking that gelato is just the Italian word for ice-cream. You’re close, but you’re not correct. Gelato is actually a bit different from ice-cream. Allow us to educate you a little. 

Gelato is known for its dense texture, rich flavour, and lower fat content compared to traditional ice cream. It is usually made with milk, sugar, and various flavourings. Compared to ice-cream it often contains less cream and egg yolks, resulting in a lower fat percentage. Gelato is churned at a slower rate, incorporating less air, which gives it a smoother and creamier consistency. It is also served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, making the flavours more intense and vibrant.

It goes without saying that every Italian will tell you that gelato is superior to ice-cream. That’s a matter of personal taste but we’d suggest you let your taste decide.

Now that you know how gelato differs from ice-cream, let’s focus on how to make sure you experience the best gelato that Rome has to offer. Having just spent 7 days in Rome this August, we can tell you that it will be very hard to resist walking past too many gelato shops before you fall to temptation. Your biggest problem will be which of the many flavours to choose. My personal struggle is usually whether or not to opt for the thirst-quenching lemon sorbet variety or revert back to my usual favourite, simple vanilla. 

By the way, we have some great suggestions for Rome walking tours!

How To Find A Good Gelateria

If you’re exploring Rome it’s very likely you won’t have to go far to find a gelateria. There are 100s of them. If we’re honest, gelato and pizza have something very important in common. That is, when in Italy, it’s rather hard to find a bad pizza. I.e. you’ll need to work hard to find a bad gelato!

Sometimes those “hidden gems” you find in the guide books are about as secret as the Trevi Fountain at midday. The real trick is to know what to look for once you’re there, standing before a tempting myriad of interesting flavours. 

One thing to watch out for is the shops that display giant mountains of gelato. These might look impressive but it can be a sign that the gelato is  pumped full of stabilisers and preservatives to keep it from melting too quickly. Aside from volume, the next thing to look at is colour. If the colours are overly fluorescent looking, we’d suggest steering clear. Too many artificial colours are simple unnecessary and will do nothing to enhance your enjoyment. Look for natural colours. This indicates the maker is passionate about authenticity and serving the real-deal. 

When it comes to flavours, there isn’t too much we can tell you. It’s always tempting just to stick to what you know, but why not let your guard down once in a while, and be a little more adventurous. A new favourite gelato flavour might be just a taste away. On that note, don’t be afraid to ask for a small taster. The gelateria are very used to this and will happily oblige with a small scoop of whatever you might be tempted by. 

If there’s an iconic flavour in Rome, we think it has to be pistachio. That’s your go-to flavour for the ultimate gelateria test. If it’s bright green, give it a miss. A good pistachio gelato should be a subtle pale green, maybe even with a hint of brown from the real nuts. It’s a simple flavour, but it reveals a lot about the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the gelato maker.

Don’t be scared off by open containers. Sure, those closed tubs might look more authentic, but they can also hide older batches of gelato. A good gelateria is proud to display fresh, handcrafted creations. Just make sure the gelato looks smooth and creamy, not icy or crystallised.

Keep in mind that you may need to try several gelateria before you find your favourite. Some jobs simply have to be done. We know, life can be tough!

What are the Best Gelato Flavors?

While there are countless delicious gelato flavors to choose from, here are a few of our favourites:

• Pistachio: A classic Italian flavour, pistachio gelato should be creamy, nutty, and slightly salty.
• Stracciatella: This creamy vanilla gelato is studded with chocolate shavings, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavours.
• Fior di Latte: This simple yet elegant flavour is made with fresh milk and cream, showcasing the pure essence of dairy.
• Chocolate: A rich and decadent treat, chocolate gelato is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Fruit Flavors: Look for seasonal fruit flavours like strawberry, raspberry, and peach. These are often made with fresh, local fruit and offer a refreshing burst of flavour. 

The Best Gelaterias In Rome

Ok, so this is where things get a bit subjective. Everyone you ask will have a different answer.  Through some rigorous research (see how hard we have to work!) we have rounded up our top 5 spots to find the best gelato in Rome.

Otaleg
Location: Via di S. Cosimato, 14a

Specialties: Creative flavors, seasonal ingredients

Otaleg is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its innovative flavour combinations and commitment to using high-quality ingredients. The gelato is made fresh daily in small batches, ensuring a truly exceptional taste. Don’t miss their signature flavours like salted caramel with rosemary and ricotta with honey and walnuts. They also have vegan options that don’t sacrifice an ounce of indulgence.

Torcè
Location: Viale Aventino, 59 (and 3 Other locations)

Specialties: Classic flavours, creamy texture

Torcè is a traditional gelateria that has been serving up delicious gelato for over 30 years. They use only the finest ingredients, including fresh milk from local farms and seasonal fruit. Their classic flavours like pistachio, stracciatella, and fior di latte are simply irresistible.

Frigidarium
Location: Via del Governo Vecchio, 112

Specialties: Unique flavors, vegan options

Frigidarium is a modern gelateria close to Piazza Navona that offers a wide variety of unique and creative flavours (walnut and fig anyone?). They also have a selection of vegan gelato made with plant-based milk and natural sweeteners. Their flavours change seasonally, so there’s always something new to try. Make sure to try the Sicilian Cannoli gelato to hit 2 Italian staples in one.

Günther
Location: St. Eustachio Square, 47

Specialties: Chocolate flavours, elegant atmosphere

Günther is a sophisticated gelateria, just steps away from the Pantheon but they have 4 locations in total. Their extra dark chocolate flavour is as rich as can be and their mountain pine flavour is one of a kind, bringing a taste of the Italian Alps to Rome. Also try Zabaglione, a yellow egg yolk and rum ice-cream that will knock your socks off!

Gelateria Come il Latte
Location: Via Silvio Spaventa, 24/26

Specialties: Unique flavour combinations, focus on high-quality ingredients

Why it’s beloved: Come il Latte is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s well worth seeking out. They’re passionate about using only the finest ingredients, resulting in gelato that’s bursting with flavour. Their creative combinations, like basil and lime or gorgonzola and pear, are sure to surprise and satisfy your taste buds. It’s a must-visit for adventurous gelato enthusiasts!

What About Brioche Con Gelato?

A twist on a regular Gelato. Brioche Con Gelato is a a warm, fluffy brioche bun stuffed with scoops of gelato. Although it’s a Sicilian tradition, it has become a beloved treat all over Italy, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Ask for “una brioche con gelato” at any gelateria that offers it, choose your flavours, and prepare for a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

So the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Rome ask yourself if you’ve exercised enough to justify your next treat? If the answer is yes, seek our your nearest gelateria and indulge!