‘Cream of the crop’ gelateria boasting artisanal Italian gelato opens in Melbourne’s inner-west.
‘We will let you in on the scoop: unlike most others – we make everything from scratch’ Gelato royalty has opened in Melbourne’s inner-west, setting a new standard for gelaterias nationwide, with everything – right down to the pastries – made from scratch.
Nestled in the heart of Yarraville, chef Luigi ‘Gigi’ Pozzoli opened Gigi’s Gelato with his wife Sue Yong in March this year, scooping his authentic, artisan Italian gelato into the cups and cones of Melbourne’s sweet tooths.
The gelateria is a rare find as it creates both the pastries and gelato from scratch in the kitchen.
Born and raised in Milan, the acclaimed citadel of the Italian food industry, Gigi feels his country’s cuisine has become misrepresented, with many gelaterias relying on store-bought flavours and semi-industrial processes and bases, rather than taking the time to create the delicacy according to tradition.
“Gelato represents Italy and we want people to know what real Italian gelato tastes like,” Gigi said.
“Unlike most gelaterias outside of Italy, we make everything from scratch in the kitchen, where gelato is crafted and enhanced so that people can relish and experience this authentic Italian delicacy as if they were in Italy.”
An example of one of Gigi’s standout flavours is ‘torta di noci di Sorrento’ (Sorrento walnut cake), as he even bakes the cake mix into the silky-smooth gelato.
The chef and gelato connoisseur, who graduated with a Le Cordon Bleu Grand Diplôme, internationally
recognised as the highest award for superior cuisine and patisserie, calls his work a “labour of love” with
no shortcuts. In one case, he even spent a week creating his cassata gelato, as he candied the oranges and lemons himself.
Gigi describes making gelato as a science – a “chemical equation” focused on bringing out rich flavours and carefully balancing them with chef’s knowledge and expertise to get an irresistible taste.
The recipes are based on the philosophy of simple and fresh produce – milk, cream, fresh eggs and sugar – combined with the highest quality ingredients to create flavours that are pure and intense.
Gigi said the flavours are like a “culinary tour of Italy” stopping by various cities and regions.
Where to find Gigi: 15 Anderson St, Yarraville VIC 3013
Info: Gigi’s Gelato