One of the best ice cream parlours you'll ever find. The proprietor used to run the famous Vivoli parlour, which is good, but a massive tourist trap. He cashed in and sold it off years ago, starting instead this unassuming little gem. The ice-cream is less rich and egg-heavy than that of Vivoli, resulting in a style that is perhaps less good for the indulgent dessert flavours (e.g. Zuppa Inglese; Strega), but allows more varied flavours to really sparkle. The fruit flavours are out of this world (e.g. Mandarin; Melon), and there are some more exotic flavours (e.g. Chilli & Chocolate) that you don't find in more traditional parlours.
Via Dei Neri 20/22 Rosso, Central Florence;
tel: 055 210 034
It is by far the best ice cream parlour in Florence and believe me I tried a lot of them (on average 3 a day!). The Vivoli is over rated. There are also good but cheap restaurants near Gelateria Dei Neri so it's worth a visit.
The owner of this shop only happens to have the same surname as the famous Vivoli and, unfortunately for him, not the same success with tourists. He is catching up though, as this ice-cream is for sure one of the best you can taste in Florence.Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
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