There’s nothing like a cool, sweet treat on a warm Minnesota day, right? And as delicious as some of our state’s ice cream is, sometimes you need something that’s just a little bit different, something a little smoother and more subtly flavored. And those days, gelato is the perfect palate pleaser. Check out some of our favorite places that dish out this Italian delight!
Va Bene Caffe, just above the Lakewalk on Superior Street, not only serves Duluth’s most delicious gelato, it dishes up its gelati flavors with spectacular Lake Superior views. Try the limoncello for tangy refreshment, or ease into the evening with a scoop of Madagascar bourbon vanilla.
Looking at the exterior of this South Minneapolis pizza institution, the word “gelato” would not immediately leap to mind. Unless, of course, your in own Fat Lorenzo’s secret: They make and serve what has been called the best gelato in Minnesota. They rotate through more than 100 flavors, all created in-house by their gelato chef. Try and catch a rotation with coconut—it’s a killer cooldown. Not feeling motivated? Have a pint delivered with your delivery pizza order.
Cossetta’s is a St. Paul institution, beloved as much for its Italian deli as for its stick-to-your-ribs Italian comfort food and pizza. But it’s also a destination to satisfy your sweet tooth. All of their gelato flavors are made fresh from scratc, in-house. Sit down and enjoy one with a cappuccino—and don’t forget to take home some cannoli.
The name may say ice cream, but make no mistake: This South Minneapolis fixture cut its teeth on gelati and still serves up the smooth, milk-based specialty alongside its award winning ice cream. The shop’s founder, Sonny Siron, was 100 percent Italian, so it’s no wonder that the shop’s Spumoni is so beloved and that gelato has been on the menu since 1950.
Folks in Duluth don’t have to go all the way down to the lake to partake of great gelato. Just up the hill, in Hermantown, Casa Latte cranks out fresh flavors every day. They rotate through flavors so frequently that you’ll need to call ahead if you want to know before you go. But why not just stop in and be surprised? It’ll add a little extra something to your delicious, creamy treat.
In addition to some of Rochester’s best pizza, Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria also dishes up the city’s best gelato from their in-store pasticceria, La Dolce Vita. Try any of their changing varieties of house-made gelato for a sweet cool bite on a hot, Southern Minnesota summer day.