Charles Esther
Tourists heading to Italy this summer are being warned to stay alert when ordering ice cream, as many are being sold fake versions of traditional Italian gelato.
Italy is world-renowned for its creamy and rich gelato, especially in flavours like pistachio and stracciatella.
Every summer, long lines of tourists queue up at gelaterias, eager to sample this iconic frozen treat.
However, not all that glitters is gold—or in this case, not every scoop is authentic gelato.
Rome’s Gelato Scam Targets Unaware Visitors
According to The Express, a growing number of gelaterias, particularly in Rome, are serving cheaper imitations of gelato to unsuspecting tourists.
These knockoffs may look appealing but lack the quality and texture of the real deal.
What Makes Real Gelato Different?
Food experts at TheKitchn.com explain that true gelato is churned slowly.
This process incorporates less air, resulting in a denser, creamier texture than regular ice cream.
That dense texture is what makes gelato stand out—and also what’s often missing in the fake versions.
How to Spot Fake Gelato
There are a few ways tourists can identify authentic gelato from these low-quality copies.
One major red flag is overly bright colours.
Genuine gelato tends to have more muted, pale tones because it’s made without artificial colouring.
For instance, real pistachio gelato will appear dull green or beige, not neon green.
Use Reviews to Find Trusted Gelaterias
Another smart tip is to rely on trusted review platforms like Google and TripAdvisor.
Tourists can use these sites to find highly-rated gelato spots that are known for quality and authenticity.
Vivoli in Florence Becomes a Viral Sensation
One gelateria that continues to attract attention for all the right reasons is Vivoli, located in Florence.
This historic gelato shop is one of the oldest in the city and has become a favourite for both locals and visitors.
Recently, it has gone viral for a new €6 coffee dessert known as Gran Crema Caffè Vivoli.
This treat is a creative spin on the traditional Italian affogato.
It consists of a shot of hot espresso served in a chilled cappuccino cup, surrounded by four strips of silky vanilla gelato.
The innovative dessert has become so popular that tourists are lining up for hours just to try it.
Don’t Let a Scam Ruin Your Sweet Experience
While Italy remains a dream destination for food lovers, tourists should stay cautious and informed to ensure they enjoy the true taste of Italian gelato.
Choosing the right shop can make all the difference between a forgettable scoop and a memorable culinary experience.
So, before you order that next cup or cone, take a second look—it might just save your summer treat.
