However, to see a version of Gelato which is more similar to the one we know, we have to fast forward until 1565 where Bernardo Buontalenti, a native of Florence, Italy, delighted the court of Caterina Dei Medici with his creation: a delicate mixture of snow, salt, lemon, sugar, milk, and egg white.

It was 1686 when a Sicilian, Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli, opened a café named “Cafè Procope” in Paris introducing Gelato (made with fruits, honey, and ice) to Europe and, of course, it quickly became one of the most celebrated haunts of the literary establishment in France.

Gelato was brought to the USA in 1770 by the Italian Giovanni Biasolo, but in 1846 Nancy Johnson brought ice cream to the masses with her hand-cranked ice cream churn, which consisted of concentric cylinders, a lid, a paddle, and a crank.
An inner can was placed inside the main bucket. Then ice and rock salt were placed between the two vessels. Because salt lowers the temperature of ice, a thin layer of milk frozen in the inner can.
The crank on the outside was connected by meshed gears to a paddle inside. The hand crank moved the paddle that scraped the frozen milk from the walls to expose a layer of milk not yet frozen. The consistent stirring and temperature resulted in smoother ice cream with a uniform texture.

Gelato or Ice Cream ?

Although we are commonly mistaken, we should not confuse Gelato with Ice cream. Gelato is a healthier product, made with fresh ingredients, and above all, it has less air than ice cream, making the flavor much more intense.

If you are still unsure, why don’t you pay us a visit and try one of our delicious flavors of Gelato from our Menu? You will be blown away!

What is a European holiday without gelato? It’s the perfect treat after a morning of exploring, the ideal palate cleanser after a Mediterranean meal and a refreshing alternative to ice cream. But what exactly is gelato, and where did it come from? In this post, we’re exploring the history of this delicious frozen treat – and letting you in on where you find the most delicious varieties.

Gelato, as we know it today, may have started in the royal courts of Florence.  Credit for creating the world’s first ever gelato goes to alchemist Cosimo Ruggieri, and he called it fior di latte. Apparently, he made his gelato for a cooking competition at the famed Medici court. Others believe gelato may have been created by an architect named Bernardo Buontalenti. A flavour named after the architect, called crema Bountalenti, has been popular since 1565. 

The first café dedicated to gelato was opened in Paris in 1686 by Francesco Procopio Cutò, bringing gelato to the awareness of the wider public. Before this, it had been the preserve of the rich, due to the high prices of sugar and salt.  

What’s The Difference Between Gelato And Ice Cream?

Both hit the spot in warm weather, but how exactly does gelato differ from ice cream? Gelato uses more milk rather than cream and is also stored at warmer temperatures, creating a softer scoop. As natural sugar is used and less air added, gelato is smoother than ice cream and more densely flavoured. Gelato is also generally healthier, as the ingredients used are fresh and natural. Healthy dessert? Count us in. 

Where Can I Find The Best Scoop?

The growing popularity of gelato has meant that Europe is teeming with places to try a new flavour. For the most authentic gelato, look out for signs reading "artigianale", which often means artisan flavours made in the shop itself. They tend to be made with fresh and natural ingredients, while the colours may not be as eye-popping, the taste will be better.

Here are our recommendations of where to get the best gelato in Europe...

In Florence. Begin in the home of gelato, Florence. Vivoli opened back in 1930, and the business has since been passed down four generations. Many believe it to be the oldest gelateria in the city – and it’s definitely the most famous. Emphasis is on traditional techniques and classic flavours like cassata, which features dried nuts and fruits.

If you need another gelato fix, make your next stop Gelateria La Carraia, whose gelato is some of the softest and creamiest you’ll ever taste. Try the Delizia Carraia, which features sweet nuggets of white chocolate and a nutty pistachio glaze. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are heaped – perfect for scorching afternoons in the city.

In Rome. In the Eternal City, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to food, especially gelato. To try it at its best, head to Neve di Latte. Simple flavours are executed to perfection, and there's also a working kitchen on site so you can watch the gelato being made. Head gelato maker Simone Romano may even fill you in on how they make their super-smooth and satisfying treats.

In Paris. For a taste of this Italian speciality in France’s capital, try Pozetto. You’ll even be able to find the original gelato flavour, fior di latte, here – which combines milk cream and sugar to dazzling (and mouth-watering) effect. There are plenty of zesty and fruity flavours to try, too, perfect for when you need a pick me up after a day of shopping. Tuck into pear, orange or berry, all made with fresh fruits.