If you are in Florence for a day, a week or you live here, you have probably set out on a personal summer mission to taste all the icecream in town and to find out what is the best gelato in Florence. In the aftermath of this summer’s Yelp Firenze Gelato Challenge, in which users were asked to vote for their favourite gelaterie by sharing a photo on Instagram, we took a more general look at the 10 most reviewed and best rated ice cream shops on Yelp. Here are the results, with some verbatim quotes of what Yelpers have to say about them.
1- Gelateria dei Neri
This gelateria stands out with a 4.5 star rating through 178 reviews, most of which highlight both the quality and variety of the ice cream within. A special note has been made about the availability of options for diabetics and for those who are lactose intolerant.
“But oh-my-God the pistachio gelato here is mouthwateringly delicious. The other flavours were also delicious (I tried a fruity one and a chocolate one), but the pistachio stands out for me and I can’t wait to go back!” says Mashael Z.
2- Edoardo
Smack dab in the middle of the city, Edoardo’s 4.5 star rating with 150 reviews, you’d think this was in part be due to the huge traffic the location gets. But this organic artisan gelateria is truly creative, offering not too many flavours, including the much hailed chianti gelato.
“Organic, made fresh daily & a few very unique flavors. You can even get your gelato with 4% alcohol (chianti flavor), if you must, and it was very good! Such a tiny space, with no name on the outside to distinguish it, but definitely worth the hunt.” says Kim S.
3- Marco Ottaviano
In the Santa Croce area, Yelp reviewers seem to find no fault with this gelato. Experts appreciate the quality of the ingredients, as well as the friendliness of the owner and staff.
“Definitely worth a visit for their strawberry and prosecco gelato. It was amazing, and I haven’t seen it anywhere else. The prosecco cut the sweetness of the strawberry gelato. We paired it with cheesecake, which was perfect!” reports Tina L.
4- La Sorbettiera
A tiny storefront and a handy outdoor seating area welcome gelato-lovers in this authentic Oltrarno area.
“They have salted caramel and deep dark chocolate, and also make innovative flavors, like a pecorino and broad bean gelato for a special gelato social organized by local food blogger Fudiblog (whom I highly recommend). This combo is a special Tuscan snack and I liked how they tried to reinvent it via gelato. Don’t worry – they have normal flavors too!” notes food blogger Coral S.
5- Arà
Sicilian specialty store Arà sits at the middle of this list, where gelato is amongst the other delicacies it’s known for: cannoli and arancine.
“This is one of the best gelato places in Florence, as shared with us by some locals. They serve Sicilian style gelato here. You must try the ricotta gelato! The pistachio and almond gelato had small morsels of the nuts inside. Really fantastic!” notes Jojoséphine T.
6- Gelateria della Passera
A tiny gelato store in a tiny but much frequented piazza in the Oltrarno.
“I’m in love with this place. Why? Because they have all your standard flavors with & without milk, plus a few edgy ones (the milk with mint has real mint leaves!). I was recommended by a local here and I’m so glad.” says Kathleen S.
7- La Carraia
Just over the bridge of the same name, La Carraia is a popular stop for tourists exploring the Oltrarno and enjoying the view of the Ponte Vecchio. The 4.5 star rating with a 136 reviews is a positive report.
“I decided upon the chocolate mousse and salted peanut combo – which was a perfect semblance of salty and sweet. My good friend, Bern, has sustained that this may be the best gelato place in the entirety of Florence. With speedy service, a pleasant theme, and sweet gelatistas,” reports Ellie Y.
8- Perchè No
A classic in the center, they’ve been serving up scoops since 1939, and managed to keep the quality high.
“A must visit when in Florence! Absolutely delicious gelato that tastes divine! I had the watermelon and melon (cantaloupe) and was blown away. Both flavors were refreshing and exquisite” says Kelly K.
9- Carabè
This gelateria near the Accademia Museum is particularly known for its real Sicilian granita. The 4 star rating rather than a 5 star seems to come mainly from the higher than average price.
“This was simply the best gelato I’ve had! I got a misto cup which contained different flavors. I chose almond, pistachio, stracciatella (chocolate chip, and vanilla. The almond was my favorite by far! It was extra creamy, smooth, and flavorful.” notes Kristen S.
10- Gelateria de’Medici
A local favourite in this residential area just beyond the center, a fridge contains ice cream cakes worthy of any spoiled child’s birthday party.
“Up to 20 fruit flavors, likewise for gourmet like crema dei medici or chocolate with orange. Also available icicles, icy fruits filled with ice cream, ice cream cakes and pastries.” Reports Sarah M.