Gelati Celesti Ice Cream — Restaurant in Virginia Beach

I visited this location around 9:45 p.m. on a hot, rainy night. Although the store closes at 10:00 p.m., there were still multiple customers inside — many of whom arrived after us. At exactly 10:00 p.m., the staff abruptly told everyone to leave the lobby, forcing about 20 people to stand outside in the rain and humidity while finishing their ice cream.

It was disappointing and unprofessional. A little grace and basic customer service would’ve gone a long way — especially considering people were still actively buying and eating when they were rushed out. The staff, primarily younger girls, seemed more focused on closing quickly than offering a welcoming experience. Closing time is for stopping service — not pushing paying customers out the door the second the clock strikes.

Also worth mentioning: portion sizes have noticeably shrunk. For the price, you expect a decent scoop, but it seems like the newer staff haven’t been properly trained on serving standards either.

Customer experience matters, even in the last 15 minutes of your shift.

The ice cream is...

Delicious flavors (seasonal which is always good) and they're happy to answer questions and let you taste to find the one you want to order.

My mom and I stopped in last week while running errands and samples several things before we finally decided. I went with a small which is two scoops and did the Lavender and Cookies and Cream... I might be on to something, it was delicious!

Cute shop with tons of seating inside and free water from a spout (love it) and a cute covered outdoor patio with several tables.

I saw they have pre-made ice cream cakes and other items you can grab and go for parties or special occasions, I'll remember that.

Great new Town Center location...

This place just opened in Towncenter. It is really nicely located with great parking right out front.

There is inside and outside seating. The outside seat is covered with bistro lights and heated for cold days.

Inside is so minimalistic, modern, instagram worthy and very very clean. There is ample amount of seating too.

The staff are all so nice and helpful. It was also very affordable. They offer a variety of sizes and flavors.

I only ordered Vanilla and cake (I think) it was so delicious and I am obsessed! My kids also really enjoyed theirs as well.

I think I will become a...