Gelateria Lamia — Restaurant in Porto Venere

I must note at the beginning of this review that I had had a very stiff drink (at Da Cesare down the road, which also earned my 5-star review) before the events I’m about to describe. But still.

I entered the gelateria expecting to get my usual two flavors and go, but the proprietress was so accommodating and willing to ply me with samples that by the time I had to order I couldn’t help but do something I’ve never done before and order 4(!) scoops. (Zabaione, fig, salted pistachio, and nearly basil, which was excellent, but needing something a little heavier to round out the cream and fruit I went with dark chocolate.)

I smacked the cone down in record time and was seriously considering another round when I realized I’d forgotten my fancy filtering water bottle back at the shop. A sign! I had to return.

And I probably would have ordered another three scoops if I hadn’t passed the Focacceria along the way and had my eye caught by their (excellent, also 5-star) pistachio millefoglie. Uff. That was good.

Anyways. It was a very stiff drink. I might still be feeling it, actually. But to keep this review succinct and on point, for those of you reading at home the scoreboard reads:

Scoops:...

What an amazing experience! We have a VERY hard time getting my son gelato in Italy due to his nut allergies. Years ago he had a reaction from cross contamination. Most places won’t even try to help us. At Lamia, they went above and beyond. He told us which flavors were safe, went and got clean scoopers and even scooped it from a lower layer of the back side (which hadn’t been touched). I am of Italian descent and I know Italians in Italy are not always the most accommodating or patient. At Lamia they were so sweet and so accommodating! They’re gelato was wonderful and only five euro for two singles. I would HIGHLY...

My favourite ice cream in the world! Yes, I am actually almost local, and no, they did not pay me to write this! I am originally from the area but have been living abroad for many years... believe me I have had a fair amount of ice cream in Italy and elsewhere and this one really stands out as the best one! A must try if you are in or around Portovenere! Also, do not confuse this place with the other "Lamia" bar just next to the main square. The one to go for ice cream is in the "Carruggio" just after the stone arch...