I thought I would take a minute and do a little advertising for  Gelateria Fatamorgana, a small gelateria artisanale here in Rome. A friend and I had lunch today at a restaurant near Ostiense, one of the main train stations near the center of town, and afterwards we decided to stop by the shop which was only a few blocks away.

Photo: Gelateria Fatamorgana

Situated on Via Ostiense only a stones throw from the giant Pyramid of Cestius, Fatamorgana is a little hole in the wall that sells some of the most unique and delicious ‘ice cream’ I have ever tasted. You can easily miss the shop if you are not looking for it and if you don’t believe me take a look at this Google Map image:

Click on image for actual Google Map Streetview

It may look a little rugged from the outside but, as with all things in Italy, looks can be deceiving. Once you step inside you are presented with an array of ice creams that you never thought could exist. Originally founded by an actress, Fatamorgana specializes in highly unusual flavors. The three I had today (Kentucky, Panacea and Madagascar Chocolate) were absolutely incredible.

Via Ostiense 36/E (Piramide) - 00127 Rome

Kentucky is a blend of rich chocolate and real Kentucky pipe tobacco. It may sound disgusting but the taste was incredible. Panacea is a blend of almonds, fresh mint and ginseng. The mint tasted as if it had just been picked. Madagascar chocolate is made without sugar but amazingly there is still a sweetness to the rich, nearly black concoction. All batches are made in small quantities in a machine a few feet from where it is served by one incredibly friendly guy.

When in Rome be sure to do as the Romans do and stop by Fatamorgana on Via Ostiense. Esquire, The Sunday Times and Il Tempo have all written about this little gem so you don’t have to take just my word for it. It is easy to get to (here is a map) and if you are interested in learning more please be sure to visit their site.

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