Recently the popular ‘Manolo Gelato’ opened up a new shop in DHA phase 5. The outlet has a colorful interior, bright bulb lights and comfortable sitting areas. Perhaps the best thing is that it overlooks a park, so after or before eating one can go for a casual stroll.
The menu of course consists of sweet, chilly, fruity and creamy Gelatos, in over twenty flavors. Besides that they have a selection of shakes and other deserts. Overall it’s a nice place to meet for hangouts, a place for after lunch or dinner, and the perfect place to take the kids.
Why is that?
Gelato is the Italian word for ice cream. Gelato has a traditional taste, technique and design to it. Its history begins with European nobility wanting to feel relaxed during the summer time. From there Gelato made its way to parlors and into the global market (thanks to modern machinery). It’s something that the culinary world takes very seriously. So much so that there is a whole university in Italy dedicated to teaching chefs how to perfect their Gelato.
In Pakistan people generally beat the heat with sharbats, lemo pani and lassi. It all comes down to keeping yourself cool and refreshed, with a healthy amount of sweetness.
It’s a healthy alternative to regular ice cream.
Store bought ice cream tends to be filled with processed sugar and artificial flavors, due to which kids may still crave sugar after having eaten. In contrast to that, Gelato is still handmade. It’s rich in calcium, vitamin D and if full of nutrients from the fruits or nuts (depending on the flavor and toppings you get).
Gelatos also have a lower sugar quantity compared to regular ice cream. At the Manolo outlet they even have special proportions for kids, which is a cute little cup or cone. So this would be a good way to surprise the kids after a meal or for any outing.
Tasting and meeting the chef
We actually tried a lot of the flavors they had, and we’re instantly sold on the freshness. Generally mango ice cream tastes likes mango flavoring, but in their Gelato the actual taste of mangoes hit our taste buds.
We recommend the Mango and Chocolate fudge Gelato. Or any fruit that is in season.
We actually interviewed the pastry chef in charge, Zain Rashid. He pleasantly told us about making process, how he got involved and his journey into becoming a chef.
He said that the dishes here are unique, and more affordable compared to restaurant prices. The quality is approved by him. He even added that Gelato doesn’t really get in the way of a diet routine. So overall we were very pleased with our visit to the new franchise. The Gelato was tasty, healthy and filling, which is a difficult combination to hit perfectly.
It’s a good place to take the kids, or just meet up with friends or just get a little something sweet and chilled to beat the summer heat. But be sure to take something salty with you, just to balance out the sweetness.
Maheen Ahmed – Writing to make culture
@lahore_la_notte_
