Ecstasy on a spoon

Let's be perfectly frank. A compelling if not primary reason to return to Italy is the food. Italians have perfected exquisite cuisine, particularly in the gelato category. So, first things first, right after the obligatory jet lag nap, we set out to find the closest gelato stand. It was the best thing I had ever tasted. I think eating gelato is like kissing; the first spoon you taste is the best. Later that night, when our third roommate Julia arrived, Dodie and I took her out for her first gelato. It was different than our first gelato stand, but it was her first kiss, and therefore the most memorable for her.

We made an agreement that we could have as much gelato as we wanted, as long as we kept the spoons. I marked Rick Steve's recommended best gelato stores on the map with a big G; those were mandatory. All others were optional. I never had a bad gelato.

Rick Steves: "Gelato is an edible art form. Italy's best ice cream is in Florence--one souvenir that can't break and won't clutter your luggage. A key to gelato apprciation is sampling liberally and choosing flavors that go well together. Artiginale means gelato is made on the premises, and gelato displayed in covered metal tins is more likely to be homemade. Gelato aficiandos avoid colors that don't appear in nature --for less chemical and real flavor, go for mellow hues (bright colors attract children.)"

Finest gelato in Italy, by many accounts, is near Trevi Fountain in Rome, Gelato di Tre Crispini. It did not disappoint. Fresh ingredients and spices zinged in the mouth. And that was my last gelato, the afternoon before I left Italy. Parting was such sweet sorrow.

Here for your enjoyment are a few shots of gelato and spoon art. By the way, since there were three people traveling, there never was a tie vote. Two out of three voted I got to take the spoons home to make something creative. So, post your suggestions for gelato spoon art, and I will let you know the winner.