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PhrasesOrdering GelatoPosso portare via un vasetto di gelato?
A2

Posso portare via un vasetto di gelato?

Can I take away a jar of gelato?

Pronunciation

va-SET-to — three syllables, double 't'. Stress on second syllable.

When to use it

When you want to buy gelato to take home — many artisan gelaterias sell their product in small jars or containers.

What it means

'Vasetto' = small jar/container. Many artisan gelaterias sell their gelato 'da asporto' (for takeaway) in insulated containers. This is perfect for picnics, parties, or bringing a taste of Italian gelato to a dinner party.

Variations

Vendete il gelato al litro?

Do you sell gelato by the litre?

For larger quantities — family sizes are usually sold in 1 or 1.5 litre containers

Il gelato regge per quanto nella borsa termica?

How long does the gelato last in an insulated bag?

Important question if you are travelling

Avete una borsa termica da comprare?

Do you have an insulated bag to buy?

Many gelaterias sell branded insulated bags for transporting gelato home

Mini Dialogue

— Posso portare via un vasetto di gelato? — Certo! Il mezzo litro o il litro? — Mezzo litro di pistacchio — è per un regalo. — Lo metto in una scatola bella — fa un regalo perfetto.

— Can I take away a jar of gelato? — Of course! Half a litre or a litre? — Half a litre of pistachio — it is for a gift. — I'll put it in a nice box — it makes a perfect gift.

Cultural Note

Bringing artisan gelato as a gift ('portare il gelato') is a perfectly Italian gesture — the equivalent of bringing wine or flowers. A box of freshly made artisan gelato from a neighbourhood gelateria, tied with ribbon, is a thoughtful and appreciated present for a dinner host.