L'Arte Del Gelato

Watch your back, Grom.

Although L'Arte Del Gelato isn't new—they've been dispensing delicious desserts near the back of Chelsea Market for three years now—a few weeks ago they opened a more readily accessible place in the heart of the West Village. It's a small, efficiently-run parlor which, given the general amazingness of this stuff, should instantly become the go-to spot for downtown sweet-treat seekers.

I've already been a couple of times, and, with the help of Bo and Co, have tried at least a dozen different varieties, including Chocolate and Pear, Dulce de Leche, Raspberry, Mint Chocolate, Lemon, Dark Chocolate, Coconut, Tiramisu (which tasted unbelievably like egg nog, which I love), Strachiatelli, Panna Cotta, Cappuccino... and each one was a total winner. The texture is rich and creamy, without a hint of greasiness. The flavors are deep and fresh and explosive and complex. This is, without question, a destination ice cream parlor.

L'Arte Del Gelato is located on the corner of Seventh Avenue South and Bleecker Street. A two-flavor small cup (which, as you can see from above, is not small at all) costs about $4.