Gelato on offer at FatamorganaItalian ice cream - gelato - is second to none. Nothing could be more refreshing on a hot day, and tourists and Romans alike get through an awful lot of it, even in the winter.
When looking for good gelato, try to find a gelateria that makes their own gelato on the premises. These advertise themselves as offering gelato artiginale—artisinal gelato—although "artisinal" can be an elastic term.
As with cafés, the usual (but not constant) rule is to pay a cashier first, and then take your ticket to the counter to be served. As well as the usual choices of cups and cones, you're also likely to be offered a smear of thick whipped cream, or "panna".
Recommended Gelaterias
Giolitti
Via Uffici del Vicario 40.
Tel. 06 6991243.
www.giolitti.it
One of the grand old men of Rome's gelaterias. It's no longer the best in town, but the quality is high and its status makes it worth a visit. They have a second shop at Via le Oceania, 90.
Ciampini
Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, 29
Tel. 06 687 6606
This café near the Corso offers some very high-quality gelato, as well as cakes, coffee, and hot chocolate.
Fatamorgana
Via Ostiense, 36
www.gelateriafatamorgana.it
Two minutes' walk from Piramide metro station, Fatamorgana has a delicious range of classic and innovative flavours, made using natural ingredients.
San Crispino
Via Panetteria, 42
Tel. 06 679 3924
The gelato at San Crispino has a great reputation, and deservedly so. The flavours are rich and creamy, but the prices are high—too high, really.