Remember, not all gelato is equal. If you appreciate food, we recommend you develop a discerning respect for different gelaterias, so that you an ascertain what is artisanal (artiginiale) or just out of a machine. (Warning: in some towns in Italy you see the pregel signs; you can see those same signs at the Bistro Market in Springfield, MO; it's "gelato", but is it really? That's powder in a mix.)
Look at the pistachio or banana flavors, they should be normal colors!
To understand the definition of gelato, read this post by foodie David Lebovitz: http://www.davidlebovitz.com/2007/07/whats-gelato/
To see where some of the city's best gelaterias are read this post by foodie Katie Parla:
http://www.parlafood.com/my-guides-to-gelato-in-rome/
To judge gelato with precision read this post by Katie Parla: http://www.parlafood.com/judge-a-gelateria-in-7-easy-steps/
We just ate huge scoops at Giolitti, via del vicario uffico 40, near the Parliament, a Roman institution. Here is a review that I wrote (we can't take you because it's just too crowded; but go). The Obamas did a few years ago.
ReplyDelete"Lately Giolitti had been critiqued by various food writers for being in its decline, or faced the suggestion that the wait is not worth it. I would disagree. Everyone who visits Rome should go to Giolitti once because it is an institution, and these are dying out.
Reasons to go:
The bar area is beautiful and historic. Those working behind the counter are sweating to the core, huffing and puffing to scoop the right flavors. The chocolate-dipped cone is delicious and large and rare in Rome. The variety of fruit flavors including sour cherry is delicious; so are the variety of chocolate flavors (though avoid nutella because it is like eating fudge). The competition of getting the guys to grab your ticket. Failing because some Italian grandma is faster than you, though standing behind you, then getting your ticket accepted. Eating on the beautiful street and having it drip between tongue and street. The colors of the gelato.
Why not to go
It's a fight to get to the front.
When we were finished we walked past the new Grom with the neon sign and those folks had dairy queen size cups. I appreciate everything that Grom stands for in terms of artisanal ingredients but I really appreciate the old time placesl. For that reason, it's worth a visit. Just know you will fight for your gelato!"