When I go to Italy one of my favorite things is to try new flavors of gelato. On my last visit I decided to go to gelato shops everywhere I went to see which one I liked the best. It wasn’t easy but since I challenged myself I went to lots of places to do this important research.

Later I decided I could never say who has the best gelato. I realized that I enjoyed a refreshing gelato from a stand near the Vatican just as much as one from a specialty shop in Venice. There was a Nutella and hazelnut combination in San Gimignano I’ll never forget. It was delicious and I nearly went back for a second one immediately. Another flavor I really enjoyed was crème brulee. It was so tasty I momentarily forgot to admire the beautiful scenery.

An important thing to remember about the gelato in Italy is the portions are quite small. I usually bought the smallest size, which was surprisingly satisfying. I’d buy it in a cone, but many people seemed to prefer cups. I’d also get one of those tiny spoons to try to make it last longer.

When I go back to Italy I’ll have to think of another important subject -like chocolate – to research!