By Lakshmi:

If life or work finds you in Milan, you absolutely have to try that divine Italian creation called gelato which makes you redefine what you might call good ice-cream.  We have heard lines of prose and poetry dedicated to the the great artists of the Renaissance and what they were able to create across media.  In my opinion, it is absolutely right to shower as much praise on that humble combination of milk, cream, sugar and flavorings that the Italians have elevated to an art form.

As mentioned in earlier posts, my first exposure to gelato was with an Italian friend in Milan and despite having many a lip smacking gelato since then, the fond memories of that trip to Milan filled with an array of gelato stores and flavors will always hold a special place in my heart.

At Riva Reno, I ordered two scoops of gelato – Cioccolato Fondente and the Limone.  Two flavors a world apart and yet simply superb in the subliminal experience they created on your taste buds.  The Cioccolato serving the rich, smooth taste of superb chocolate in what could be termed as a chocolate lover’s dream and the Limone with its just plucked taste of lemon waking up every sense in your taste bud.  This was not ice cream that you just ate to fulfill your sweet tooth.  This was dessert that you appreciated slightly more with every spoon, where each serving on your palate felt like it was kicking another sense of appreciation into play.

It would be an understatement to say I loved Riva Reno.  The place capitulated the humble ice cream to new heights.  I went back on subsequent visits to try the Pistacchio and Zabalione and both delighted.

Take a virtual journey through their flavors here and do put this on your must do experiences in Milan.

PS.  Their English language site is not ready, but when has dessert ever needed a language?

http://www.rivareno.com/ita/