The craft

How to spot real artisan gelato

Ingredients, texture and the details that matter more than a mountain-high display.

Pistachio gelato being folded with a traditional metal spade
Directory editorial image · not a photograph of a listed shop.

Look at the shape

Gelato does not need to tower above the metal pan. A calm, covered or level display can be a sign that temperature and texture are being managed carefully.

Read the flavour

Pistachio is naturally muted rather than fluorescent green. Seasonal fruit should taste like the fruit itself, and flavour lists can change when ingredients do.

Ask a simple question

A good shop should be comfortable explaining where it makes its gelato and what goes into a flavour. Specific, straightforward answers are more useful than broad claims.