Death In Venice Gelato — Restaurant in Toronto

Came in about a week ago to purchase some more gelato pints for a trip I was going on, and some bakery items from butter and spice (this review does not reflect butter and spice). The gelato I’ve tried in the past has been good, nothing great or outstanding but good. I appreciate their flavour combos and freshness. I’ve tried 3-4 pints in the past and all were pretty solid. However, during this visit the owner was so rude! I was excited when I noticed him, as I recognized him as the owner (from online spaces) and was thrilled to have a little chat, but when I was purchasing my bakery items and greeted him with a simple “good morning” he seemed SO annoyed with me, barely spoke or engaged with me at all and was honestly just unkind. No customer service skills it seems, and a pretentious attitude. I’m fine if someone’s not talkative, I’m pretty shy myself. But this was just plain rudeness. So I did not grab any pints from the freezer behind the cash, paid for my bakery items (which are amazing) and left. It felt like the owner was disappointed that I was not buying HIS gelato (unbeknownst to him, I would have, if he had some manners). Needless to say I won’t be purchasing gelato again. I will however be back for the amazing products from B&S (highly recommend trying her cakes)! I will also note, he charged me 10c for a paper bag. I’ve been here maybe 5-6x and have never been charged for a bag. Seemed petty, but maybe I’m reaching. It’s unfortunate too as I was planning on booking an ice cream tour through airbnb for my moms upcoming birthday, couldn’t imagine having to spend any time with the owner, so I will not be booking. He’s probably super nice to folks he sees “value” in - One of those types. Unfortunate experience. This spot is close enough to little Italy, I recommend trying some more authentic gelato with kind owners over at Sicilian sidewalk cafe - they’ve never done me wrong. Interactions with customers should be valued, this is how your business grows. Community is important, this...

6 of us walked for 25+ minutes tonight to this gelato spot because of the reviews, and upon arriving, we stepped over some kind of liquid with chunks in front of the front door (possibly vomit?) to enter.

The cashier was initially nice, but after 1 of us asked to taste 4 flavours to decide between them (since they weren’t great, to be honest) and 1 of us asked to compare 2 flavours, the cashier looked increasingly angry and stopped communicating entirely. She just gave us the flavours with no comment but an angry face and attitude.

After the first person (who tried 4 flavours) settled on the least bad one, the rest of us decided not to order because of the complete lack of customer service + overall taste of the flavours since we didn’t feel comfortable asking to try more due to her attitude.

We were all going to order initially but ended up completely walking out and went to another gelato place instead. Definitely wouldn’t recommend supporting a place with bad customer service and bad gelato quality when there are so many other places who won’t treat you that way for trying out their flavours.

Won’t be back, wouldn’t recommend, and a waste of time.

Edit: In response to the question — a young woman with her hair up was the only employee in the shop at the time. You could also check your employee’s schedule or...

Stopped by Death in Venice Gelato and was pleasantly surprised by how creative and thoughtful everything felt — from the bold flavours to the beautiful interior. The shop itself is quite small with limited seating, but the vibe is cozy and artistic.

I tried their award-winning Cheeseboard flavour, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. You can taste the Brie, walnuts, pear, and wine — each element comes through in layers, like a dance of flavours. It genuinely felt like having a bite off a fancy cheeseboard, just in gelato form. It’s not something you come across often.

We also tried the Turkish Delight, which was soft, floral, and well-balanced. I sampled the Whiskey Smoked Chocolate too — rich and smoky, with a strong whiskey note. Not my style, but it would be perfect for someone who enjoys a deep, boozy flavour.

One thing I really appreciated was how none of the gelatos were overly sweet — each flavour bold, complex and was carefully balanced, letting the ingredients speak for themselves. You’re allowed to sample two before making a choice, which is great when the menu is full of bold and intriguing options.

Overall, Death in Venice is a must-visit for anyone who loves artisanal gelato with a twist. If you’re tired of the usual chocolate and vanilla, this place will definitely surprise and delight...