Old Bridge Gelateria — Restaurant in Chelsea

Fantastic experience! This unique business among most is attempting to provide a taste of Rome/Vatican atmosphere, culture and food. They are pulling it off in detailed and delicious ways (a la Epcot). Thoughtful European, architectural elements can be found everywhere. Narrow, automatic sliding entry doors, elegant wood trim, cabinetry & chandeliers, ornate exit signs and bonified, professional Italian espresso machine grace the intimate coffee shop. Hand fitted, wooden beams and pegs support the renovated farm house great room. Even the restroom design is not overlooked in thoughtful detail.

In much the same way as other businesses may require a gentleman to wear a sport coat, a cathedral may request tourists to cover bare shoulders or a theater may request viewers to refrain from using cellphones, this establishment politely expresses the atmosphere they want to uphold at the boardwalk entrance to pull off the overall Vatican experience. I found it effective in creating an out of the ordinary, refreshing and even "foreign" experience that encourages customers to enter a pre-21st century world where they can interact with each other, the barista or the gelato purveyor, smartphone free.

Coffee is sourced by a top tier producer and roasted on site. Multiple, Italian trained, barista-made coffee options are available and lattes are served in either a classic mug with a gratis, salt-shortbread cookie or in a takeaway paper cup with a unique, aficionado lid allowing the coffee aroma to reach your nose while you sip. The adjacent gelato shop doesn't disappoint, offering free samples and HUGE portions of a couple of dozen classic flavors from the only franchise in North America of Vatican based, Old Bridge Gelato shop.

Also on site is a cured meat shoppe. On the menu are sandwiches, charcuterie boards and combos meals including the afore mentioned gelato, Italian soda a main and a side. The pleasantly landscaped grounds have plenty of outdoor seating at picnic tables and indoor cafe tables in the renovated farm house. Family friendly elements are part of the package including a Tonka truck pebble box, multiple outdoor fire pits, indoor fireplace and conversation areas. In summary, if you appreciate quality and thoughtfulness in product, service and atmosphere, are open minded to play along you might just get to enjoy a glimpse and a taste of the Vatican/Rome in your...

My review will not do this place justice! It is an experience which I cannot wait to repeat. We went in the evening and it was beautiful. Next time I will try it in the daytime. First, you park across a tiny road and walk up to a wooden walkway/bridge. The rules are clearly posted. They are a Christian owned business, require modest dress, and cell phones should be left in your car. You are not going to an average rowdy froyo place. You are experiencing beauty like some have never seen before. They have not missed any of your senses, sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound. When we first got there I stopped at the restroom to wash my hands. You will not want to miss this! Look up! I was immediately transported to my trip to Italy. It took my breath away. So beautiful. Then, we got to the Gelato area. We were greeted by 2 very sweet young ladies who were very patient with our group. I've had Gelato in Italy and wasn't impressed. Obviously I didn't go to the correct place. This is the creamiest, most decadent Gelato, authentic from the best place in Italy. I mixed the pistachio and boscotti cookie. Amazing!! While you enjoy your treat, there are several nice areas to explore. It was very romantic in the evening with the lights. The main building is stunning and they have lovely Italian music playing. I cannot wait to come back for coffee. I feel I've already shared too much. You must come and experience this...

We have been several times, 1st time I had on a tank top, wanted me to put on a covering My daughter and her boyfriend stayed and brought me a gelato. The rules are on the sign when you walk up. No cellphone!! How refreshing. You don't need to talk, text or take pictures, just enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and best gelato ever. We have had the Flatbread sandwich, several of their own roasted coffees, espresso, americano which is modestly priced, why do people go to Starbucks and pay all that $$. The gelato is the best ever, ricotta gelato who would have thought. I have paired it with pistachio and lemon 🥰 They also have sorbets. Wonderful music playing, beautiful buildings and outside areas. You can also go in the one building if too hot outside. If your offended by not having your cellphone at an establishment just think how many people you offend daily by using your cellphone at restaurants, stores etc. Why should strangers be subjected to your convenience and...