A friendly mini-chain with well-trained staff and smart, comfortable surrounds, Gelato Mio is a welcome sight in many neighbourhoods, striking a good balance between kid and adult appeal. The quality of gelato is consistently high, though flavour delivery varies from superb to ‘can’t remember what we ordered’. Roman holiday favourites are supplemented with seasonal specials that often salute other countries.
We were impressed by the woody, grown-up flavour and chunky texture of American walnut, plus textbook vanilla and dark chocolate varieties. On our visit, locals were coming in specifically for peanut butter gelato; staff managed to charm away disappointment that it had run out. Pastries and coffees are on a par with the big coffee chains, making this a pleasing alternative if you want to linger – especially as most customers do just grab and go. You can buy take-home tubs and order gelato cakes (48 hours’ notice), but prices are steep.