Is there an ice cream shop near the beach?
cheh oo-nah jeh-lah-teh-REE-ah VEE-chee-noh al-lah SPYA-jah.
When you want gelato — Italy's answer to ice cream. Near Italian beaches, there are almost always gelaterie, either on the beach or a short walk away.
Una gelateria is an ice cream shop. Vicino alla spiaggia means near the beach. Gelato (Italian ice cream) is one of Italy's greatest cultural contributions — fundamentally different from industrial ice cream in its freshness and quality.
Quali gusti avete?
What flavours do you have?
The standard opening question at a gelateria.
Cono o coppetta?
Cone or cup?
The essential gelato serving choice.
Quante palline entrano in un cono medio?
How many scoops fit in a medium cone?
Asking about portion sizes.
Italian gelato is legally protected by the designation 'gelato artigianale' — artisan ice cream made fresh daily from natural ingredients with no artificial colours or preservatives. It contains less air and fat than commercial ice cream, giving it a denser, more intense flavour. Italy has about 39,000 gelaterias — more than one for every 1,500 inhabitants.