When an eye-catching heritage corner building became available late in 2021, only 50 metres further down Glenferrie Road from the original store, Piccolina Gelataria founder Sandra Foti says she knew “it was just meant to be.” After blessing the residents of Collingwood, St Kilda, Richmond and the CBD over the past six years with various store openings, with her newest outpost, Foti focuses again on Hawthorn, which as a local and business owner, is close to her heart.
Designed by Hecker Guthrie in collaboration with Projects of Imagination, Piccolina Hawthorn 2.0 is more than just a place to pop by for a quick scoop on the go. It is a serene space, flanked by a distinctive arched window, adorned with feature pendant lighting and bespoke seating, with a cosy communal table which will no doubt foster connection and conversation amongst fellow gelato enthusiasts.
The hardest part is choosing which of the signature and limited-edition flavours to go for. The easy part is always saying yes to Piccolina’s trademark Better Than Nutella topping. It is a universal truth that chocolate free-flowing from a fountain just tastes better. This flagship store is expanding Piccolina’s gloriously sweet horizons with Piccolina frappes on offer, excellent dairy free options, merchandise for sale, and a sizeable fridge occupying the back of the store with space for 120 bespoke celebration cakes.
If you are overwhelmed by choice, go for our tried and tested favourite; double scoop of hazelnut and salted caramel in a cone, topped with Better than Nutella, always.