Sure, you can hop on a plane and head over to celebrate the annual summer holiday ferragosto and eat your way through Italy’s globs of gelato. Or you could save the plane fare and have your own little creamy, dreamy holiday right here on the East End. More and more businesses here have brought in the rich, dense frozen treat, and we’ve got the churn on who’s got what.
Aldo’s Coffee Co. (103-105 Front St., Greenport, 631-213-9353)
While re-upping on caffeine, sneak a scoop of one of the classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate or pistachio. If you’re keen on beans, try one of the rotating flavors like coffee or the cappuccino and espresso flavors made inhouse — and be sure to try the decadent affogato.
Greenport Creamery (142 Main St., Greenport, 631-333-2818)
You might not have realized, but the Greenport Creamery is still owned by the same family that’s had it since the 1979, making their housemade treats all the sweeter. Second-generation owner Lilian Stachtiairias took over the hometown ice cream shop in 2019, redubbing it Greenport Creamery and adding a modern touch with sweeteners like locally sourced honey, agave and cane sugar, along with five flavors of gelato on hand at all times. “It’s only 5% dairy, which a lot of people like as alternative,” says Stachtiarias. While standard flavors like vanilla bean offer pure, authentic flavor, the pistachio and hazelnut fly out of the freezer. “I have to make them every two days,” she says.
Hellenic Restaurant (5145 Main Road, East Marion, 631-477-0138)
It’s hard to beat Hellenic’s commitment to this frozen treat: Two years ago, owner George Giannaris bought machines that self-churn in-house, so the gelato they’re serving? It’s as fresh as it gets. There are always six flavors on offer, but this summer, Giannaris is particularly fond of his new flavor, Cherry Baby. “It’s made with Mareno cherries from Italy and Belgium chocolate shavings,” says the chef-owner. Bonus: On Tuesdays from 5 p.m. on, all gelato is half price while it lasts!
Lombardi’s Love Lane Market (170 Love Lane, Mattituck, 631-298-9500)
This gourmet market specializing in Italian provisions carries classic flavors like pistachio, chocolate, strawberry and stracciatella — a vanilla bean base with dark chocolate swirls. Grab a scoop ($3.75) or two ($4.25) as you saunter down Love Lane.
North Fork Chocolate Company (309 E. Main St., Riverhead, 631-779-2963)
This is an obvious stop to feed a sweet tooth, but when you’re hoping for something more refreshing try the classic North Fork Chocolate flavor or strawberry made from local produce. For even more sweetness, get a scoop of the double stuffed Oreo and for something unique, try the crustless apple pie.
Opties & Dinghies (87 N. Ferry Road, Shelter Island, 917-822-1230)
Chinese food, French baked goods, wine, and gelato? Yes indeed, the cheerful little island spot quickly became a local favorite when it opened last summer for its mish-mash of deliciousness. But the Il Laboratorio gelato — the New York-founded ode to Italian-style gelato — is a must-try this time of year, with anywhere between 30 and 40 flavors on hand at all times, ready to scooped into cones, cups or pints ($19) to go.
Southold General (54180 Main Road, Southold, 631-458-1275)
While known for their brunch and breakfast items, Southold General also serves up a generous scoop of the Italian dessert. Classic flavors like vanilla, pistachio and hazelnut make for a marvelous mid-day pick-me-up.
The Treatery (1564 Main Road, Jamesport, 631-779-2883)
This dessert shop and bakery keeps your sweet tooth satisfied with Nutella, caramel sea salt and Funfetti gelato in a cup or cone. And keep your eyes open for the fabled espresso chocolate chip flavor, a customer favorite.
