Wolf down some of Ottimo's authentic gelato.
Wolf down some of Ottimo's authentic gelato.
Gelato has to be one of the few items you can eat at pretty much any time of the day. Give yourself the chance and before you know it, you’ll be concocting reasons why it’s a good idea to be wolfing down mint choc chip straight after breakfast or savouring ‘fior di latte‘ just before dinner — and to be perfectly honest, we can’t see any problem with that at all.
If you find yourself in Coolangatta with a gelato itch that simply needs to be scratched, the newly opened Ottimo on Marine Parade is the place you have to head for.
Slightly tucked away, yet just off the beach and easily strolled to from either The Strand or Griffith Street makes this charming little gelateria a place you can come back to time and time again. And there’s little doubt that you will.
The approach by owner David was to create a modern diner style space but with carefully considered fittings and art, as well as a respectful nod to Italian culture.
The main counter is made up of recycled wood and was put together by the same hands behind the Dust Temple, behind it you’ll notice a mural depicting the old days of Italy, whilst overhead there’s a futuristic light installation by local artist Clayton Blake.
All this makes for an eye-catching and cool space which could potentially distract you from the most important thing at hand — the gelato!
Now, you know you’re in safe hands when the owner has his diploma from the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy hanging on the wall. No joke. The result? One of the best gelatos you are likely to wrap your tongue around outside of Italy, topped off by the fact all of that sweet goodness is made fresh on-site, in-store, every day.
Flavours include all the usual suspects, but we insist you have to try the Aussie Dream: Macadamia, banana and caramel as well as the Oreo Menta: Oreos with mint choc chip. Shucks, why not have them together?
Italians are famous for their coffee and Ottimo serves up the real deal. Italian roasted beans from Julius Meinl as well as Organic Teas are served throughout the day, beside a selection of tasty pastries for a lighter take on breakfast. Because on some days, eggs, bacon and all of the sourdough are just a bit too much, right?
Hours: 7 days, 8am – 9.20pm
Where: Shop 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Alex Mitcheson