Gelato in Bologna: The Cream of the Crop
My top 3 gelato picks that are truly the cream of the city
Bologna has always been my gelato dreamland.
And now, more than ever, I have no doubt: Bologna is the Italian capital of gelato.
The list of top-quality spots feels endless, but if I had to pick just three?
Here’s my podium (find more in this post about the best gelaterie in Bologna):
1. Cremeria Santo Stefano
A must-stop on our Bologna food tour. The perfect farewell, with a scoop of salted pistachio or white coffee. Gianni, with his unmistakable mustache, starts making gelato at dawn. His son, Mattia, keeps raising the bar with brioche and panettoni.
Tip: Be smart—avoid peak times. Go between 1-3 PM or around 7-8 PM. Or just embrace the line—it’s worth it.
2. Maritozzi and Gelato
I was lucky enough to step inside their lab and watch Renato create his legendary crema from scratch. His gelato blends Roman influences (if you’re lucky, try the Cacio e Pepe flavor!) with Bologna’s seasonal fruits.
Tip: Try Fiori del Sud—a pistachio sorbet with almonds and salt. And if you love chocolate? Forget stracciatella. The peanut-chocolate combo Tanta Roba will change your life.
3. Sablè
Choosing the last spot was tough. But Sablè is different. Pure. Essential. Alessandro’s gelato defies expectations. His menu is short, changes daily, and features Japanese ingredients you’d never imagine in a gelato. The result? Unforgettable.
Tip: Ask Alessandro for the best flavor combo. Go for something you've never heard of.
What's new
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📚 Want to learn Italian? My friend Laura teaches in Bologna (and online). Check out LoveItalian.
🔥 I splurged on a Le Creuset pan*. It cost a fortune. But will it last a lifetime? Hope so.
Enjoy the color of spring.
And see you next month,
Andrea
*The link is an affiliate, if you buy from there, I will get a small commission