Around The Circle Featuring Francesco Annaloro

In this series, Around The Circle, follow along to uncover interesting facts and stories of the neighborhood spanning fashion, food, arts, culture, local businesses and so much more.

Francesco Annaloro is the co-owner of L’Artigiano Gelato, a family-founded and owned authentic Italian gelato company. While staying true to the traditional recipes handed down by his great grandfather, Francesco aims to maintain the legacy while pushing the boundaries of flavor, texture, and presentation, ensuring each creation delights customers and leaves a lasting impression. Read on to learn more about the rich history of the brand and visit the Fiat 500 x L’Artigiano Gelato cart located on the Ground Floor of The Shops through August.

Tell us a bit about the story behind L’Artigiano Gelato.

At L’Artigiano Gelato, our journey is deeply rooted in family tradition and a passion for preserving the artistry of artisanal gelato. It all began with my great grandfather, a culinary maestro whose recipes were treasured heirlooms passed down through generations. Stepping into the role of preserving our family’s culinary legacy, I made it my mission to honor his memory by sharing his incredible flavors with the world.

Where did the idea for the Fiat 500 Gelato cart originate?

The idea for the Fiat 500 Gelato cart originated from a blend of cherished childhood memories and a vision for bringing authentic Italian gelato to the streets of America. As a child, the first car I was ever acquainted with was the iconic Fiat 500, a symbol of Italian design and style. Years later, as I pondered ways to share our family’s authentic Italian gelato with a wider audience, the memory of that Fiat 500 resurfaced. I realized that the compact size, retro charm, and cultural significance of the Fiat 500 could serve as the perfect platform for bringing our gelato to the streets of America.

Can you talk about what drew L’Artigiano Gelato to The Shops at Columbus Circle?

As a frequent visitor, Columbus Circle holds a special place in my heart, serving as my favorite spot to soak in the vibrant energy of the city. This personal connection adds an extra layer of significance to the endeavor. Incorporating L’Artigiano Gelato into Columbus Circle, a historic landmark in New York City, via a Fiat 500 gelato cart I thought could create a wonderfully unique and memorable experience for locals and tourists alike. Columbus Circle’s rich history and cultural significance make it an ideal backdrop for offering artisanal gelato.

What gelato flavors are being scooped up at The Shops at Columbus Circle this summer?

Chocolate, Sicilian lemon, mango, strawberry, Nutella, vanilla bean, cookies and cream. As well as best-seller, Sicilian pistachio, and newest additions tiramisu and caramel affogato.

The gelato cart has been adored by locals and tourists alike, what do you think makes it so special?

As you step towards our Fiat 500 of L’Artigiano Gelato, you are greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly churned gelato and the warm smiles of the scoopers behind the counter. Each ingredient is treated with reverence, honoring the land from which it comes and of my great grandfather who have tended to it with care. But what truly sets L’Artigiano Gelato apart is the artistry and skill of its master gelato makers. With decades of experience passed down through the ages, they transform humble ingredients into frozen works of art, each flavor a symphony of taste and texture. In a world where mass production reigns supreme, L’Artigiano Gelato stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and authenticity, a testament to the timeless allure of artisanal excellence.