Marrickville’s Gelato Franco is unashamedly an old-school Italian gelateria. From its focus on traditional gelati, right through to the home-style interior décor – a scattering of pictures and mirrors, green wooden panelling, trailing indoor plants. And it is very, very popular.
Everything at this family-run gelateria is made on-site from scratch in small batches, with an emphasis on fresh seasonal ingredients. Gelato Franco even roasts and chops the nuts for its pistachio and hazelnut gelati. You can watch all the gelato magic happening through the window at the back of the store.
The daily flavours cover tried and true regulars, plus a changing selection of specials, with about 18 flavours to choose from, including dairy and non-dairy options. All served in cups, cones or tubs to take away. Drinks-wise, there is coffee, chocolate, tea, Italian soft drinks or bottled water.
But we were there for the gelati. With Benny’s brother, our plus one and driver for the afternoon!
Right in the middle of mango season, how could I pass up a fresh mango sorbetto? I paired this with roasted hazelnut gelato, which was loaded with finely chopped nuts. While some people prefer their nut gelati to be ultra-smooth, we loved this hazelnut – it’s a totally different experience.
Benny paired a fruity orange and strawberry sorbetto with tiramisu gelato, which was generously studded with wodges of coffee-soaked sponge. Benny’s brother chose passionfruit and coconut sorbetto, also with roasted hazelnut gelato.
All the flavours were outstanding, textures just perfect. Our only problem is that we live in Melbourne, otherwise Gelato Franco would definitely become one of our regular haunts.
Superb traditional Italian gelati, freshly made from natural ingredients. Super generous serves, friendly service. No wonder it is so popular with the locals!
Gelato Franco
281 Marrickville Road
Marrickville NSW 2204
