Phantom Gourmet: Chocolate Gelato Taste Test

The Daily Meal Staff|

BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom Gourmet conducted a taste test of four brands of chocolate gelato.

The Phantom purchased four brands of chocolate gelato from a local supermarket. The creamy cool contenders were Breyers, Giovanna, Roba Dolce, and Talenti.

Roba Dolce finished in last place.  First the good news: this gelato is packed with dark-chocolate-covered Ocean Spray Craisins, which give a nice contrast of texture and flavor to each spoonful.

Now the bad news: the gelato itself just isn't very good. Its texture is unpleasantly gritty, and the chocolate flavor leaves a lot to be desired.

A big step up from there is Giovanna. This local brand is made in small batches and boasts a very short list of simple ingredients.

The label suggests leaving it on the counter at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating, and Phantom says if you can wait that long, your patience will definitely be rewarded.

After a little melting, the creaminess and rich chocolate flavor of this gelato really come through, proving that good things really do come to those who wait.

The runner up was Breyers Gelato Indulgences.  This surprisingly delicious triple-chocolate tub features dark and milk chocolate gelatos, a ribbon of white chocolate sauce throughout, and crunchy chocolate curls sprinkled on top.

Unquestionably over the top, this is an Americanized take on gelato, with an ultra-creamy texture reminiscent of soft serve ice cream. If you're looking for indulgence over authenticity, Breyers is definitely your brand.

At the top of the food chain is Talenti. This inviting clear container had Phantom drooling before he even twisted off the lid. The dark chocolate gelato is rich and creamy, with just a hint of sweet vermouth flavor.

Adding to the experience is a bounty of small dark chocolate pieces that impart a nice texture and even more chocolate flavor. Each authentic bite of this brand tastes like a summer stroll through the North End, which is why Talenti Double Dark Chocolate Gelato is at the top of the food chain.

Watch Phantom Gourmet on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 and 11 a.m. on myTV38.

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