Dolci Gelati

For residents of Northern Virginia, and particularly for those who cherish the historic charm of Old Town Alexandria, finding a truly authentic and high-quality dessert destination is a real treat. Dolci Gelati, located at 107 N Fairfax St, is exactly that. This isn't just an ice cream shop; it's an artisanal gelateria founded by pastry chef Gianluigi Dellaccio, who brings a genuine passion for authentic Italian gelato to the United States. His commitment to quality is evident in the process, which starts with fresh deliveries from local dairy farms and includes hand-picked fruits and fine chocolate imported from a small, sustainable farm in Ecuador. This meticulous attention to detail has earned Dolci Gelati a stellar reputation, including being rated the best gelato in D.C. by the Washington Post and even winning the prestigious "Technical Jury Award" at the Gelato World Tour. This local guide is designed to provide you with a comprehensive overview of what you can expect from this specific Alexandria location. We will delve into its convenient location in the heart of Old Town, the wide array of services it offers, and the special features that make it a beloved destination for both first-time visitors and loyal regulars. Our goal is to present a factual and engaging resource that highlights why this shop is the perfect fit for the Virginia community.

The essence of Dolci Gelati is captured in its dedication to tradition and innovation. Chef Gianluigi Dellaccio’s background as a pastry chef allows him to constantly experiment with new, unique flavors, creating a menu that is both classic and exciting. As one customer noted, the shop offers "a bunch of fun, unique flavors," from their award-winning fig and mascarpone to a wide variety of sorbetto and vegan options. The use of high-quality, fresh ingredients is a cornerstone of their philosophy. They craft their gelato in small batches every day, ensuring the freshness and quality of every scoop. This commitment to the craft is what sets them apart and creates a product that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The shop itself has a "historic, artsy vibe" with a "cute little patio" that provides a perfect space for customers to relax and enjoy their treats. The atmosphere is described as "not too quiet and not too loud," making it an ideal spot to sit and soak in the Old Town scenery. In addition to gelato, they also offer a selection of locally roasted espresso and coffee, which, as one reviewer mentioned, is a delicious choice for those who are not in the mood for a frozen dessert. This versatility, combined with their exceptional product, is what makes Dolci Gelati a cherished and highly recommended local business in the community.

The location of Dolci Gelati is a major draw for both residents and visitors. Situated at 107 N Fairfax St, it is "in the heart of Old Town right next to the town center," making it an incredibly convenient and easily accessible destination. For those who enjoy a post-dinner or pre-dinner stroll, the shop is perfectly located to grab a treat and walk along the beautiful waterfront. The historic charm of the area adds to the overall experience, making a visit to Dolci Gelati feel like a mini-vacation. For those traveling by car, a customer review points out that there is a "paid parking garage right in front of the business," which is a significant advantage in a busy area like Old Town. This makes it a stress-free option for those who drive. For people using public transportation, the shop is a short walk from various bus stops and the King Street-Old Town Metro station, ensuring that it is a viable option for a wide range of the community. The accessibility of the location, combined with the charming and bustling environment of Old Town, makes this Dolci Gelati a highly attractive and practical choice for anyone in the area looking for a special dessert experience. Its place in the community is a testament to its seamless integration into the local lifestyle, serving as both a local hangout and a must-visit spot for those discovering Alexandria for the first time.

Dolci Gelati offers a diverse menu that goes beyond just gelato, providing a full café experience with a focus on high-quality, authentic products. Their services are designed to cater to various tastes and preferences. Here is a detailed look at the services and products you can find at this location:

• Artisanal Gelato and Sorbetto: The main attraction is their authentic, handcrafted Italian gelato and dairy-free sorbetto. They feature a wide variety of flavors, including classics like Dark Chocolate and Strawberry, as well as unique options like Honey Mascarpone Fig and Passion Fruit.
• Award-Winning and Vegan Options: They proudly offer their award-winning flavors and a selection of vegan gelatos made with oat milk, such as Vegan Vanilla Bean and Vegan Toasted Coconut, which cater to different dietary needs.
• Coffee and Espresso: The shop serves locally roasted espresso and a variety of coffee drinks, including a "delicious" hot caramel latte and the "especially good" Alexandria Fog, making it a great alternative to chain coffee shops.
• Gelato Cakes and Pints: For special occasions or to enjoy at home, customers can order custom gelato cakes or purchase pints of their favorite flavors, allowing them to take the Dolci Gelati experience with them.
• Pastries and Sandwiches: The menu also includes a selection of housemade pastries, croissants, muffins, cookies, and sandwiches, providing more than just dessert options for a well-rounded café experience.

The features and highlights of this specific Dolci Gelati location are what make it a beloved and reliable spot for the local community. These elements contribute to a positive and memorable experience for its patrons. Here are some of the key highlights of the establishment:

• Award-Winning Quality: The shop's gelato has received high praise and awards, including the "Technical Jury Award" at the Gelato World Tour, which speaks to its exceptional quality and authenticity.
• Unique and Inventive Flavors: The extensive menu, with its constantly rotating and unique flavors, ensures that every visit is a new adventure and provides a reason for customers to return.
• Charming Old Town Atmosphere: The "historic, artsy vibe" and "cute little patio" create a welcoming and relaxing environment that perfectly complements the Old Town setting.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The commitment to using fresh, local dairy and fine, imported ingredients like chocolate from Ecuador is a major highlight, ensuring a premium product.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan Options: The availability of well-crafted gluten-free and vegan gelato options makes the shop inclusive and accessible to a wider range of customers with different dietary needs.

To plan your visit or get in touch with Dolci Gelati in Alexandria, here is the essential contact information. The physical address is 107 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA. This is the central location in Old Town where you can experience their artisanal products firsthand. The primary phone number for the shop is (571) 290-0684. This number can be used for general inquiries, such as checking on current hours of operation, flavor availability, or to place an order for a custom gelato cake. In addition, the mobile phone number, +1 571-290-0684, is also provided as an alternative contact method. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on seasonal flavors and hours, as these can change. Having these contact details readily available is a great convenience for the local community, allowing them to easily connect with the shop and plan their visits. This transparency and accessibility are a key part of the shop's local appeal, making it a friendly and approachable business for all of Alexandria's residents.

In conclusion, Dolci Gelati at 107 N Fairfax St is an excellent choice for locals in Alexandria for a number of compelling reasons. Its prime location in the heart of Old Town makes it an easy and convenient destination for a delicious treat, whether it's during a leisurely stroll or after a meal at a nearby restaurant. The shop’s dedication to crafting authentic, award-winning Italian gelato with high-quality ingredients sets it apart, providing a consistently delicious and premium experience. The wide variety of flavors, including unique and seasonal options, ensures that every visit is a new adventure. The charming and welcoming atmosphere, complete with a lovely patio, makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a moment of peace. For the people of Alexandria, Dolci Gelati is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a creative and culinary hub that offers a taste of Italy right in their own backyard. Its blend of authentic craftsmanship, great service, and a community-focused mindset makes it a perfect fit for any local seeking a truly special and memorable dessert experience.

Dolci Gelati

107 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA