Gelato Artigianale

For me, the quintessential experience of Italy is getting 'un pallino' (one scoop) of gelato at every little neighborhood shop. Well, not every one. Just the ones with artisan - artigianale - gelato.
My favorite this trip was Il Doge, in Venice's Dorsodoro district. Tucked into a corner of Campo Santa Margherita, it serves a steady stream of locals and tourists from morning til night. Like all the best shops, it boasts 'produzione propria' (our own production, or homemade). And about a dozen flavors are offered each day, with many choices rotating through. If your favorite isn't available today, try tomorrow. I love the freedom to try new flavors, something I rarely do at home when it entails buying (and storing, then eating or wasting) at least a pint. Every day a new discovery - or two, on a particularly yummy day. Gelato artigianale makes an inexpensive, simple but delicious treat, an indulgence for every day. Yes, every day.