Gelato in Florence

The deliciousness of gelato and I cannot be separated. My pursuits to acquire gelato can be described as relentless. And once I have it, some could say our bond is indestructible. I am to gelato, what Romeo is to Juliet. We meet twice a day, morning and night and fall ridiculously head over heels for one another again and again.

My speel may seem over the top and absurd but through my travels in Europe I have come to the conclusion that gelato is my upmost favourite food experience, especially discovered in the heart of where it is at its best, Florence Italy.

Gelato spreads its cold, rich creaminess all over the streets of Firenze, enriching the hearts and souls of both locals and travellers. Quenching their hot-heated taste for something cold and delicious.

The flavours are mind-blowing, pistachio, strawberry, melon, pineapple, and the list goes on! But who can resist the crispness of good ol’ lemon gelato. As it’s spooned into my cup I can’t help but wipe the saliva that falls from my mouth – handing over my 2 Euros, it feels as if its taking forever for the Italian man to hand over the goods. Finally, it reaches my mouth and we are at last reunited again.

The culture that surrounds the gelato in Italy is simple. They have the best and don’t say otherwise. The gelato flavours are usually in line with the season, making the flavours rich and pure. But you need to know how to pick the right store as there are many gelato imposters selling second rate industry versions made with no love.

By asking “È fresca e fatta in casa?”, which translates to ‘Is it fresh and hand made?’ you can get the 4 11 on your 2 Euro gelato. An even easier way to sniff out a fake is to pay attention to the advertising, a handwritten sign listing flavours usually means you are in for a win.

Gelato is best eaten in the glorious sun, looking out over the river and taking in the village life that surrounds you. That is, until a tourist interrupts the serenity by trying to get the best shot of the landscape where you just so happen to be sitting.

I talk often of foods that speak straight to the tastebuds and gelato would have to stand in my top ten for these kind of foods. The texture, temperature and flavour all combining into a eating experience like no other.

So spoons up and tongues out, treat yourself to a gelato or even a gelato making course so your ready for summer, and it will not disappoint.

Gelato making course in Darlinghurst Sydney:
http://www.gelatomessina.com.au/

By Samantha Coutts