Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar

For discerning dessert lovers across Illinois, particularly in the western suburbs, a true hidden gem awaits in Itasca: Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar. This isn't just another ice cream shop; it's a cozy, inviting haven where the rich traditions of Italian gelato-making meet a warm, familial atmosphere. Tucked away within the beautiful Itasca Country Club, Undici offers an authentic experience that goes beyond mere indulgence, creating memorable moments with every scoop and sip.

What makes Undici Gelato truly special is its commitment to craftsmanship and the personal touch of its owner, Antonella. As echoed by numerous delighted customers, a visit here feels like stepping into a beloved family home, where every guest is treated with genuine warmth and care. This dedication to hospitality, combined with a passion for creating truly superb gelato, has quickly made Undici a must-visit destination for anyone in Illinois seeking an unparalleled frozen treat and a genuinely welcoming environment. It's a place where you can savor artisanal flavors, enjoy a perfectly made espresso, and simply feel at home.

Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar is located at 400 E Orchard St, Itasca, IL 60143, USA. Its setting within the Itasca Country Club is a distinctive feature that contributes to its "hidden gem" status, as noted by enthusiastic customers. While it's located within the country club grounds, access is designed to be welcoming to the public.

As customer reviews clarify, the entrance to Undici Gelato is typically found on the side of the Fox & Turtle restaurant within the country club. This might feel like a "scavenger hunt" for first-timers, but once discovered, its serene and beautiful surroundings add to the charm. The Itasca Country Club is easily accessible from major roads in the western suburbs of Illinois, making it a convenient drive for residents from nearby towns like Wood Dale, Addison, Elk Grove Village, and Schaumburg. Ample parking is available within the country club premises, ensuring a hassle-free visit. This unique location offers a quiet escape where you can enjoy your gelato in a pleasant and upscale setting, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed outing in Illinois.

Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar specializes in high-quality, handcrafted Italian gelato and complementary coffee beverages, creating a complete dessert experience.

• Artisan Gelato: The core offering is their superb, authentic Italian gelato. Flavors are often rotated, with the owner Antonella creating new and exclusive options weekly. Expect rich, intense flavors like salted pistachio, honeycomb (made with homemade honeycomb candy), and unique creations such as gooey butter cake. They also offer refreshing sorbettos, including options like fresh papaya mimosa sorbetto.

• Espresso Bar: Complementing their gelato, Undici also operates as an espresso bar, serving locally roasted cold brew and various espresso-based drinks. This allows for classic pairings like affogato (gelato drowned in hot espresso).

• Handcrafted Affogato: A standout service, as highlighted by a customer review, their hand-crafted affogato is described as "out of the world," combining their exquisite gelato with premium espresso.

• Grab-n-Go Pints: For those who want to extend their gelato experience at home, Undici offers convenient to-go pints, allowing customers to bring their favorite flavors home to enjoy later. These are available at their scoop shop and at select partner locations like Bonta Pizzeria & Restaurant in Lincolnshire.

• Cake Pops: Customers have praised their "amazing and generous size" cake pops, indicating they also offer other baked treats perfect for pairing with gelato or coffee.

• Catering & Private Events: Undici Gelato provides catering services, allowing you to "elevate your events" with their exquisite flavors. They offer customizable options, including picture-perfect gelato carts manned by friendly artisans, perfect for weddings, corporate gatherings, birthday bashes, and other special occasions throughout Illinois.

• Customized Flavors: For catering or special requests, they offer customized flavor options, allowing clients to bring their "wildest gelato dreams to life," from nostalgic favorites to unique combinations.

• Wholesale Gelato & Sorbets: Undici also caters to other businesses, offering a wholesale program for restaurants, cafes, dessert shops, and grocery stores.

Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar possesses several distinctive features that make it a highly recommended spot for Illinois locals seeking a truly special treat.

• Exceptional Gelato Quality: Overwhelmingly, customer reviews praise the "superb" and "by far the best gelato I have ever had!" quality. This artisan approach, with fresh ingredients and unique flavor creations (like gooey butter cake and honeycomb), sets them apart from conventional ice cream shops.

• Warm, Family-Like Atmosphere: A standout highlight is the incredibly welcoming and cozy vibe. Customers consistently mention feeling like "part of the family" and highlight the owner Antonella's personal touch, making everyone feel special and invited to "stay awhile." This personal connection transforms a simple dessert run into a delightful experience.

• Unique "Hidden Gem" Location: While initially a "scavenger hunt" to find inside the Itasca Country Club (specifically near the Fox & Turtle entrance), this unique setting adds to its charm and provides a more tranquil, upscale environment than a typical street-side shop.

• Owner's Personal Touch and Craftsmanship: Antonella, the owner, is frequently lauded for her direct involvement, hospitality, and skill in creating unique and delicious gelato flavors. Her dedication to the craft and customer interaction is a significant draw.

• Beyond Gelato: The inclusion of a full espresso bar, exquisite affogato, and other treats like generously sized cake pops means there's a wider array of high-quality options for different preferences, enhancing its appeal as a comprehensive dessert destination.

• Catering and Wholesale Services: Their ability to cater events and provide wholesale gelato makes them a versatile business, extending their delicious offerings to larger gatherings and other local establishments.

For Illinois residents eager to visit this charming spot or inquire about their exceptional gelato and services, here is the essential contact information for Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar:

Address: 400 E Orchard St, Itasca, IL 60143, USA (located within Itasca Country Club, entrance typically on the Fox & Turtle side)

Phone: (424) 303-0435 (Note: A phone number (424)-303-0435 is listed on their website under FAQ/Locations, which appears to be a California area code, likely related to their origins or a centralized contact. It's advisable to check their website or social media for direct local contact information if available, or use this number for general inquiries.)

Checking their official website or social media channels for current operating hours, especially as they are located within a country club, is also recommended before visiting.

For the residents of Itasca and the wider Illinois community, Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar is exceptionally well-suited as a local establishment, offering a distinctive and highly valued experience.

Firstly, its unwavering commitment to authentic, high-quality Italian gelato provides a superior dessert option that transcends typical ice cream offerings. Locals who appreciate genuine craftsmanship and fresh, intense flavors will find Undici to be a true gem. The consistent praise for its "superb" and "best ever" gelato highlights its culinary excellence and makes it a destination for those seeking a premium frozen treat right in their backyard. This quality ensures a satisfying and memorable indulgence every time.

Secondly, and perhaps most profoundly, the warm, family-like atmosphere fostered by owner Antonella makes every visit more than just a transaction. Customers feel genuinely welcomed and special, transforming a simple outing for dessert into a comforting and uplifting experience. This personal touch cultivates a strong sense of community and loyalty, encouraging locals to return not just for the gelato, but for the inviting environment and friendly faces. Such a hospitable setting is invaluable for a local business, making it a beloved gathering spot.

Furthermore, its unique location within the Itasca Country Club, while requiring a small "scavenger hunt" for new visitors, offers a serene and pleasant backdrop for enjoying treats. It provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. The convenience of offering grab-and-go pints also allows locals to extend this delightful experience into their homes, perfect for personal enjoyment or entertaining guests.

In conclusion, Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar in Itasca is an ideal local spot for Illinois residents. It offers an exceptional product rooted in Italian tradition, delivered with unparalleled warmth and hospitality, all within a charming and accessible setting. It’s a true culinary highlight that enriches the local community and promises a delightful experience with every visit.

Undici Gelato & Espresso Bar

400 E Orchard St, Itasca, IL 60143, USA