The Ultimate NYC Gelato Guide: Where to Find the Best Scoops in the City

Indulge in the Creamy Delights of NYC's Best Gelato Spots

There's something about the smooth richness and vibrant displays of gelato that makes your mouth water. This Italian treat has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of New Yorkers, offering a delightful alternative to ice cream.

Gelato, known for its denser texture and lower fat content, boasts more intense flavors than its American counterpart. You won't find as many cookie dough-style flavors here; instead, expect to be tempted by delicious coffee, hazelnut, berry, or pistachio options.

Ready to savor the simple pleasure of a scoop of gelato? Here's a taste of some of the best places in the city to indulge:

Anita Gelato

Founded in Tel Aviv in 2002, Anita Gelato has four locations across NYC. This spot is famous for its creative flavors like pistachio crumble, white chocolate pretzel, nougat wafer, and banana split. Many gluten-free options are available, and the outdoor seating provides perfect people-watching opportunities.

Venchi Chocolate & Gelato UES

This Turin-based sweets shop, with over a century of history, offers a delectable selection of coffee, crepes, and gelato. The pistachio, hazelnut, and dark chocolate flavors are particularly noteworthy, but you can't go wrong with anything involving chocolate. The interior exudes Northern Italian elegance.

L'Arte del Gelato

This Chelsea Market favorite was founded by Francesco Realmuto in 2005. L'Arte del Gelato's creamy gelati are renowned, especially the berry flavors. During warmer months, you can find their carts on the High Line, in the Oculus, and in Lincoln Center.

Gelateria Gentile

This gelateria, established in Bari, Italy, in 1880, has an old-world charm. The flavors have an antique quality that is truly satisfying. Don't forget to try the affogato if you're looking for a coffee boost. Gelateria Gentile has locations in Nolita, University Place, and Williamsburg.

Caffè Panna

This ice cream parlor, owned by Hallie Meyer (daughter of Danny Meyer), offers a taste of Rome's gelaterias. Expect flavors like coffee stracciatella, almond latte, mint junior, and buttered baguette. The Italian-imported cream changes weekly. A new location has opened in Greenpoint.

Pamina Dolce e Gelato

This gelato shop serves up delicious flavors like lemon, stracciatella, cantaloupe, and strawberry in a charming space. They also offer baked goods. The team behind this spot also runs Travelers Poets & Friends, Alice, and Osteria 57.

Veniero's Pasticceria & Caffe

This historic East Village spot began as a pool hall in 1894. Veniero's is now a beloved institution known for its pastries and gelato. Beyond the classic flavors of gelato and sorbetto, they offer spumoni, tartufo, and other tempting ice cream creations.

Superiority Burger

The new Superiority Burger location offers two daily gelato or sorbetto flavors, created by Brooks Headley, a former pastry chef at Del Posto. Expect unique and often savory flavors like fennel, coconut, labneh, and even more surprising combinations.

Sant Ambroeus

This Soho coffee bar and gelateria opened in 2021 and features nearly 20 gelato flavors. Their bestsellers include chocolate, vanilla, stracciatella, and pistachio. Don't miss the Sant Ambroeus flavor, which tastes like a vanilla sponge cake with a hint of raspberry.

Il Laboratorio del Gelato

Jon Snyder opened Laboratorio in 2002. This spot has a laboratory-like feel and offers dozens of daily flavors, many of which are unusual. Beet, cheddar cheese, and Thai chile chocolate are just a few of the unique combinations you'll find here.

Ferrara Bakery & Cafe

This Little Italy institution, open since 1892, is known for its pastries. While you're there, grab a scoop of salt and caramel or pistachio gelato. They also serve granita, made with the family's own recipe.

Villabate Alba

This Bensonhurst bakery, with its Sicilian roots, is famous for its marzipan cakes, butter cookies, and classic pastries. They also offer a delicious selection of gelati and sorbetti, including flavors like biscotti, pistachio, caramel, vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.

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