Spent the afternoon sampling a preview of gelato flavors from Gelato Di Babbo. Creator Kim Zanni has been pedaling her homemade gelato for several years now, first from a tricycle cart and then on local grocer shelves. But this weekend she debuts her own cafe at 635 South Broad Street in Lititz. On this day’s sampling menu, beyond the traditional hazelnut, were inventive offerings like bubblegum, passion fruit, creamed corn, and no-sugar cantaloupe. Zanni delights in creating custom flavors for clients, adding local handcrafted wines and beers to her flavors. Debuting at the new Lancaster Convention Center, her Shoo Fly Pie gelato, a dark molasses base with bits of butter and brown sugar crumbles, was exclusively created for the venue.
Summers bring light tastes like Honey Lemon Lavender, Blackberry Merlot, and Strawberry and Champagne, as well as the aptly named Sunflower with sunflower kernels in a rich, buttery base. When she opens her Lititz café on July 17, she will introduce her newest flavor, Chocolate Guinness, as well as Strawberry Cheesecake, Caramel Corn, and Chocolate Hazelnut. Although the gelatos are the stars, Zanni’s Italian chef husband will offer traditional pastries and paninis.