In Rick Steves' Pocket Rome, it's called "Rome's most famous gelateria." As we approached it on a rainy Saturday in May, there was quite a crowd both inside and out. But I was determined; my friend Rene, when she gave me the travel guide, showed me her star and circle around Giolitti's description--meaning, I must go there! So we headed inside, ready for our first gelato in Rome!
A cash register was immediately to the right of the door, and we asked someone in the line, "Do you pay first?" She replied, "Yes." We started looking at the long list of choices on a large menu board on the wall, and glanced down at the counter where everyone was waiting for their gelato. I had read that there was an area for table service, so we walked past the crowd and peeked around the corner. Luckily there was a small table for two immediately to our left, and we motioned to the waiter if it was alright for us to sit there. He nodded, and almost immediately another waiter brought us menus.
Oh my goodness, the choices. I finally decided on dark chocolate and raspberry, while my husband chose the "Coppa Giolitti"; according to their website, it's a recipe dating back to 1920!
The rain had stopped by the time we exited, and there were people all along the street eating their cups or cones. Giolitti's popularity is very obvious! In response to my post on Facebook that evening, my friend from Italy commented, "Great choice! That's the best in Rome!" | The portions were generous, and extremely tasty. A large cylindrical cookie came with both of our selections. The waiter asked for us to pay when he brought our order; I could see, since the place was very busy, that this was an efficient way to deal with the fact that the exit for the everyone, table or counter customers, was on this full-service side. |
When in Rome, definitely make Giolitti's your destination for gelato!
What's your favorite gelato flavor? Tell me in a comment below!
Teachers: Check out Let's 'Scream' for Ice Cream on Travel with Mrs. T. School Edition!
What's your favorite gelato flavor? Tell me in a comment below!
Teachers: Check out Let's 'Scream' for Ice Cream on Travel with Mrs. T. School Edition!