Cremeria Santo Stefano — Restaurant in Bologna

What is a gelato? Having previously sampled the so-called "Gelato Milano" in the Comune di Milano, the answer to this quagmire still eluded me. Having perused the various gastronomic compilations decreed by my contemporaries in search of saccharine nirvana, we embarked to further our confectionary crusade into the dietary treasures of the "Regione Emilia-Romagna". One name that is revered amongst those aforementioned individuals in the persuit of enlightenment is "La Cremaria Santo Stefano" and, more specifically, their "pistacchio salato nel cono" - the cone being a more appropriate cradle for the iced confection; naturally, we had to partake. Upon first interaction with my taste buds, my subconscious immediately drew parallels to the mellifluous harmonies of "Das Wohltempierte Klavier" by Johann Sebastian Bach, that is to say that, arguably, one could argue, that a sudden wave of frisson passed through my body, and, of course, my soul. In the days since, I have been left feeling the same emptiness as those losing a loved one. It would be fair to say that my inner emotions remained at an absolute nadir, knowing that my taste buds would most likely never feel the absolute gustatory euphoria of this creamy confection again. In the subsequent denouement, the only consolation has been the solace found through the profound lyricism and rhythmic syncopation of Radiohead's magnum opus, "Kid A". It's driving electronic rhythms and sophisticated harmony are the only things that can fill the void left within myself. I would be inclined to recommend this establishment to you, dear reader, however, be warned - this cuisine demands a certain mental fortitude that only comes with a multitude of previous culinary experiences.

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I have to say I only did a short trip in Bologna and tried a few gelato shops and this is my personal favourite. In my opinion, the gelato I had here was the best in Bologna. I arrived here and thankfully, there wasn't a long queue. I have read about long queues in the shop but there were only 2 people in front of me. The price is very reasonable, which starts from 3 or 3.50 euros for cup or cone and it has 2 flavours! But the downside is that the scoop is slightly smaller so it felt strange for me that I felt so satisfied by the quality of the gelato but not for the quantity of it. The gelato are all covered in the traditional Italian freezer such that it is not showcased so there's a bit of mystery on how to choose the flavours just depending on the flavours stated on the menu. For gelato it cannot go wrong with choosing pistachio and chocolate or pistachio with vanilla but there can be different variations of it. In doubt ask the staff for recommendation or the more popular flavours which was what I did. I had the Pistachio and the lemon cream which is an unusual combination but it turned out to be so good! This has to be the one gelato shop to visit in your Bologna itinerary. Highly...

This is THE BEST GELATO IN BOLOGNA!!! Maybe even Italy. I'm an avid gelato lover, after 6 trips to Italy, multiple cities and multiple gelaterias, I was blown away by their flavours. The pistachio is the best. But there are two one is sweet and more like the ones everyone is used to. Then they have pistachio Salata ... Salty roasted pistachios give the best flavour in this. Paired with Crema Di Zitella, which is a creamy vanilla based with pine nuts. Goes so well together. Their flavours are unique and not something I have ever seen recreated. I even went back to Bologna to visit friends a year after I left, and I immediately went back to this place to get my fix. One of a kind. A bit far from the main square but if you venture out here, you will not be disappointed. But remember... Get the Pistachio Salata and see what we've all been missing compared to...