GROM — Local services in Venice

One of our missions during our trip to Italy was to eat as much gelato as possible. And since you’re in Italy, you can expect to have many options when looking for a gelateria. Of course we had to try Grom considering it was the first successful ice cream franchise/chain in Italy. Needless to say, their gelato was superb. One thing you’ll notice at Grom is that they have all their gelatos covered with a lid to keep air out and so it’s kept at the optimal temperature. In general, you want to avoid any gelaterias that have mounds of gelato piled up. Most likely they will contain additives such as stabilizers/emulsifiers to help hold shape and prevent separation of ingredients. Also avoid the places that have brightly colored (clearly artificial) gelato especially if they have bizarre and wacky flavors like “Rainbow Unicorn” or fruit flavors that are not in season, most likely containing artificial colors and flavors or syrups. These are typically tourist traps (unless you have small children who probably won’t be able to tell the difference between good/bad/fake gelato and just want something that is sweet and colorful) and the gelato is not comparable if you’ve tried the real thing. Grom’s mission was “to make gelato the way it used to be - pure, authentic, and taking no shortcuts” and as much as the franchise has grown they continue to make high-quality gelato using the best-quality, naturally-sourced fresh ingredients. And you can definitely taste...

GROM Ice Cream Shop in Dorsoduro is an absolute gem in the heart of Venice. From the moment you step in, you're greeted with a delightful aroma that entices your taste buds. The gelato selection is simply fantastic, and I highly recommend their two-ball cone with pistachio and stracciatela; the flavors are rich, authentic, and leave you craving for more.

Moreover, their chocolate with chips gelato is a true indulgence, a perfect blend of velvety smoothness and satisfying crunch. It's a flavor that shouldn't be missed.

The only downside is the lack of more GROM branches in Venice, especially closer to Castello. It would be a dream to have their delectable offerings just a stone's throw away.

Apart from the exceptional in-store experience, GROM is also great for those looking to enjoy their delightful ice cream at home. The take-home options retain the same quality and taste, making it a must-visit shop for both locals and tourists.

In summary, GROM Ice Cream Shop in Dorsoduro is a must-visit destination for ice cream aficionados. Their pistachio, stracciatela, and chocolate with chips flavors are excellent, and I wish there were more outlets nearby. Nonetheless, it remains my go-to spot for the finest...

If you want cheaper gelato, by all means, go elsewhere. Get yourself out of the line so that the rest of us can enjoy what is truly the best gelato out there.

However, if you want the best flavors that gelato can bring you, step right up to Grom’s. Pay the extra 1 euro. Enjoy.

The chocolate, the mango and the vanilla literally taste like you shoved your happy face into molten Swiss chocolate soufflé, a ripe mango, and then poured real vanilla bean extract into your eyes-filled-with-tears-of-joy. Trust me. Or don’t. Try for yourself and be delighted.

Everyone else who paid astronomical prices to visit Venice but can’t cough up for the best 3€ gelato on Earth can carry straight on to The COOP and dig out of the freezer bin.

As for my family? Grom’s

Life is too short to eat bad gelato. Or drink bad martinis but that’s a...