Ciao, sweet seekers!🍨 When in Rome, gelato isn’t just a treat, it’s a rite of passage. And there’s no better place to indulge in this delicious tradition than Giolitti, a legendary Roman gelateria that’s been delighting locals and visitors since 1900. Located just off the Pantheon and next to the Italian Parliament, Giolitti is more than a gelato shop, it’s a piece of Roman history. Stepping inside feels like entering a past era, with its Liberty-style interiors, polished mirrors, and ornate woodwork. It’s elegant, lively, and oh-so-Roman.
🍧 What I Tried: Sweet Decadence in a Cup
I didn’t go for the classic cone this time, instead, I indulged in three stunning “coppas”, each beautifully presented and bursting with flavor:
✨ The Olimpic Cup: Created in 1960 to celebrate the Rome Olympics, this dessert is a masterpiece. Styled like the Olympic torch, it layers zabaione cream, turrone, chocolate, and pan di Spagna soaked in Alkermes liqueur. Creamy, nutty, and lightly boozy, it was pure dolce vita in every spoonful.
🍓 Mantecato Piccolo: A coppa with a refreshing, fruity mix: strawberry, raspberry, lemon, and two divine chocolate scoops (chocolate and dark chocolate). The flavors were incredibly vibrant, the fruit was zingy and clean, and the chocolate? Dreamy and indulgent. A fruity, refreshing contrast to the indulgent Olimpic.
☕ I paired my treats with a caffè doppio, and also sampled their cappuccino and americano. Every sip was expertly crafted, no surprise in a place with such a strong coffeehouse heritage.
✨ Why Giolitti is So Beloved
Here’s what makes Giolitti so iconic:
- 🏛️ Founded in 1900 by Giuseppe and Bernardina Giolitti, it quickly became the official supplier of gelato to the Italian royal family.
- 🍨 Over the years, it’s served everyone from politicians and poets to Hollywood stars, yes, Audrey Hepburn herself was a fan.
- 🪟 The indoor space is a visual feast, with marble floors, stained glass, and vintage charm. And if you prefer people-watching, their outdoor tables are a prime spot to soak in Roman life.
- 🥐 It’s not just about gelato, they also offer pastries, chocolates, and souvenirs that make perfect gifts (or treats for yourself!).
📍 Tips Before You Go
- Location: Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40, Rome
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM daily
- How it Works: Pay first at the register, then bring your receipt to the gelato counter.
- Seating: Both indoor and outdoor seating available, no reservations required.
- Payment: Credit cards accepted.
- Closest Landmarks: Pantheon (2 mins), Piazza Colonna, and Via del Corso.
- Popular Times: Expect a line around mid-afternoon and after dinner, it’s worth the wait!
Final Thoughts
There are places in Rome that are unforgettable not just for their history, but for how they make you feel, Giolitti is one of them. Whether you’re craving a creamy gelato, a nostalgic dessert, or a quick espresso before heading to the Pantheon, this is the spot.
I left with a happy heart, a full stomach, and the certainty that I’d be back. Because once you’ve tasted gelato at Giolitti, no other scoop quite compares.
Next time you’re in the Eternal City… you know where to go.
xoxo,
Bubbly 🍨
