Gelocchio (CLOSED)

Setting up a new gelateria on Lygon Street in the middle of winter takes confidence and ambition. Gelocchio’s success in wooing the gelatophiles of Cairns must have given owners Valeria and Renzo plenty of both. Thus Gelocchio Carlton has come to pass, and it’s an intriguing spot, with its fairytale-themed mural, mismatched furniture and gaggle of Pinocchio dolls lolling on the shelves. The hazelnut gelato is a smooth, sophisticated number, while the fig cheesecake is packed with succulent, seedy fig segments. But it’s the vanilla custard that’s the crowd’s pick – and ours, too. Combining two classic desserts pays double dividends in a sunny-yellow velvety gelato. For those who want to branch out into other desserts, there are popsicles, Italian sundaes (coppa) and elaborate ice cream cakes, courtesy of pastry chef, Valerie.