Rome’s Most Famous Ice Cream Parlours

If you have visited Rome and come back home without visiting one of its famous “gelaterie” or ice cream parlours, you are guilty of missing out on one of the most decadent cold desserts of Italian origin. The Romans give as much importance to their ice cream as they do to pasta and coffee and visitors simply must taste this delicious ice cream of Rome because it is not only top quality, but also original.

When I was in Rome, I learned the basic difference between “ice cream” and “gelato.” The Italian “gelato” is smoother and richer than the ice cream you will find in ice cream parlours elsewhere. This is because the Italians churn the mixture and avoid loading it with cream and sugar. They also sell it in cups and cones. Also, since you pay for your “gelato” per cup, you can request 2 – 3 flavours in your cup.

Never leave Rome without visiting San Crispino, a narrow and long shop, which looks just like Italian ice cream parlours did before glass display cases were invented. San Crispino offers several flavours of gelato made of nuts, fresh fruits and even liqueurs; you will find San Crispino branches all over Rome.

During my last visit to Rome, I had visited the Colosseum and was longing for some ice cream when I spotted the Tre Scalini. This delightful place is located in the Piazza Navona and you must not fail to taste the chocolate ice cream ball rolled in chunks of chocolate with a cherry at its centre. You can eat this delightful gelato delicacy as you people watch at the square. If you are interested in traditional Italian flavours, you can visit the 19th-century Giolitti, which is located a short distance from the Pantheon. Try the rare combination of fudge chocolate with tart lemon sherbet and you will never forget it.