Is the dessert lactose-free?
DOL-cheh — two syllables, stress on first. 'ch' before 'e' = hard 'k'. 'dolce' rhymes with 'folly + cheh'.
Use specifically when ordering dessert if you're lactose intolerant. Many Italian desserts — panna cotta, gelato, tiramisu — are dairy-heavy.
'Il dolce' = 'the dessert'. This is a direct question using 'è' (is) + 'senza lattosio' (without lactose). Simple and effective for the dessert course.
Avete gelato senza lattosio?
Do you have lactose-free gelato?
Sorbetto (sorbet) is usually dairy-free and lactose-free.
Il sorbetto ha latte?
Does the sorbet have milk?
Sorbetto is typically just fruit and sugar — confirming.
Posso avere il dolce senza panna?
Can I have the dessert without cream?
Specific request to remove cream.
Italian sorbetto (sorbet) is a pure fruit and sugar preparation with no dairy — completely lactose-free. Granita, especially Sicilian granita, is similarly dairy-free. These are the safest dessert choices for lactose-intolerant diners in Italy.