7 Best Places for Gelato in Arizona!
What makes gelato so good? It’s hard to pin it down to just one thing. The Italian dessert is made with less fat, less air, and more milk than its American cousin ice cream. It’s also churned at a slower speed, giving it more density than ice cream. Gelato spots also use a range of flavors and toppings that make the frozen treat irresistible. Arizona is home to many such places. These local gelato spots are in the business of serving up some seriously tasty flavors. Here are the 7 best gelato places in Arizona.
Frost Gelato, Multiple locations
You don’t have to go to Italy to get authentic gelato. That’s because Frost uses imported Italian ingredients to create their delicious desserts. The Tucson-based Frost was originally created after the owners tried their first taste of gelato on a trip to Italy. They decided to open their own gelato shop to satisfy their insatiable hunger. Now they have locations throughout the United States and abroad. You can try their mix of flavors at their Tucson, Phoenix, or Gilbert location. Frost has over 50 flavors including favorites like coconut, caramel macchiato, and cinnamon apple pie. If you need a pick me up, try the affogato—a gelato and espresso hybrid.
That’s Amore Gelato, Scottsdale, AZ
That’s Amore Gelato doesn’t just have an Italian name. It also has an Italian staff, menu, and flavors. That’s Amore is a family owned and operated store opened by immigrants from Milano, Italy. Their Italian roots shine in the many artisan-crafted gelato flavors, including coconut, pistachio, and tiramisu. That’s Amore also has Italian infused menu items including cannoli, espresso, and gelato cakes.
The Gelato Spot, Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ
Almond Snickers, New York cheesecake, salted caramel. These are just a few of the mouthwatering flavors available at the Gelato Spot. The Gelato Spot uses authentic flavors from Northern Italy to create their delectable desserts. That’s because they’ve forged relationships with Italian gelato masters and import many of their ingredients. The result is some of the best gelato in the state. The Gelato Spot has three locations—two in Scottsdale and one in Phoenix. In addition to their standard menu, they serve pizza, cakes, coffee, and a rotating list of special flavor gelato.
Gelato and Grocery Dolce Vita, Mesa, AZ
Owners Walter and Marti know a thing or two about gelato. The duo attended the Gelato University near Bologna, Italy, before opening up Gelato Dolce Vita. This Mesa favorite uses handmade, additive free ingredients in making their renowned gelato. You’ll also find tasty flavors like crème brulee, limoncello, and amaretto at their store. If you’re looking for more Italian flavor, look no further than Gelato Dolce Vita. It doubles as a deli that sells authentic meats, cheeses, and oils from Italy.
Pussycat Gelato, Bisbee and Scottsdale, AZ
Pussycat Gelato may be brand new, but it’s already gotten quite the following. This Old Town Scottsdale gelato spot feels like it belongs right in Rome. They sell espresso, biscuits, and authentic gelato. Pussycat sells three different, equally delicious types of gelato—white based, chocolate based, and dairy free. As a bonus, their portions are extra hefty and reasonably priced. If you travel down south, don’t forget to make a stop in Bisbee. Their Bisbee storefront opened late last year.
Cool Gelato Italiano, Scottsdale, AZ
Try one bite of Cool Gelato Italiano and you’ll be hooked. This Old Town, Scottsdale gelato shop is the brainchild of husband and wife duo Alberto and Letizia. These experienced gelato makers were trained in the food industry in Italy. They’ve brought over 20 distinct Italian gelato flavors to the Valley. In addition, their gelato is made without preservatives or chemical additives. Their fresh, authentic gelato matches up with the best of gelato shops.
Grateful Spoon, Phoenix, AZ
Feeling adventurous? Head to Grateful Spoon. This Phoenix gelato shop has some truly unique gelato flavors. Among their inventive flavors are options like Nutella, chocolate peanut butter, and blackberry Sauvignon. Grateful Spoon specializes in small batch gelato made using the same methods as Italian gelato. They also use natural products and have vegan friendly options on their menu. They also have happy hour. You can get 50 percent off scoops on Monday through Friday from 3-5 p.m.
