Vivoli Gelato Shop and Affogato Bar, Florence

Italian gelato is known for its smooth, dense texture and intense, natural flavors, with particular emphasis on fresh ingredients. Vivoli avoids artificial preservatives and additives, allowing the flavor of ingredients, such as fresh fruit, to remain prominent. Among its most distinctive specialties is Riso, or rice gelato, a creamy flavor containing small pieces of cooked rice. Dating back to the 1930s, it has been one of Vivoli’s signature creations, reflecting its commitment to traditional recipes. In keeping with the house tradition, gelato here is served in cups rather than cones.

The historic gelateria has only a very limited seating area at the back, so most visitors enjoy their gelato outside or at one of the establishment’s exterior service points. In the morning, Vivoli also functions partly as a café, serving cappuccinos, pastries and cakes prepared on the premises. Another its long-standing specialty is the affogato, traditionally made by pouring hot espresso over vanilla gelato in a chilled cup. This combination creates a contrast of temperature and texture, while the bitterness of espresso balances the sweetness of the gelato.

Prompted by popularity of this specialty, the Vivoli family opened next door Vivoli Affogato Bar, in 2025. Its signature creation is the Gran Crema al Caffè, which combines Vivoli’s creamy homemade gelato with freshly brewed espresso poured directly over it. The dessert had been a Vivoli specialty for decades before gaining international attention, particularly after a 2023 social-media post that called it the “best affogato” the author ever tasted.

The Affogato Bar also offers variations combining gelato with chocolate, liqueurs and other ingredients. Unlike the adjacent gelateria, the new space is designed primarily for takeaway and has no seating. Visitors can thus experience two sides of the same family tradition: the historic Vivoli gelateria, with its selection of traditional artisanal gelato, and the newer Affogato Bar, where one of its most famous specialties takes center stage.