If you want gelato, go to Giolitti. All the famous people go to Giolitti. All of the famous people have BEEN going to Giolitti for over a century. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.
What to know before you go? Pay ahead at the cashier counter before you get in line. One you pay, you’ll be given a receipt. Once you have that in hand, then get into line at the appropriate counter to get served.
I had two full days in Rome. I went twice.
It was almost impossible to choose, with all the pastry, espresso and gelato. Day 1, let’s go with a lemon and strawberry cone. It was a bit later in the afternoon, so I made a mental note when I saw one of the servers preparing an affogato. He was scraping gelato into a square along the rim of a cappuccino cup, creating a reservoir for the espresso. Note to self: I want that next time I’m here.
The next morning… off to Giolitti I go. I order an affogato. THIS is what the waiter placed in front of me.
Not mad about it. Not mad one bit. Still rather curious what I was supposed to order if that’s what I got. Oh gee golly gosh I guess I need to go back to Rome.