Gelateria 3bis

Time Out says

Thu Jul 19 2012

Borough Market has just added another feather to its culinary cap. Tucked between Neal's Yard Dairy and Monmouth Coffee, 3bis is an Italian gelateria that excels in creamy gelato and refreshing sorbets.

Step inside and watch the line-up of gelato machines churning out new flavours. If you're patient, you can even try some straight from the churner, as it only takes 12 minutes for a fresh tub to be made.

There’s an emphasis on creamy, milky flavours, from fior di panna (‘cream’ ice cream) to panna cotta or vanilla custard. While the classics (such as chocolate or pistachio) are not neglected, the team at 3bis likes to experiment. A caramel-coloured liquorice gelato surprised with an initial burst of intense coffee notes, which then merged into the familiarly strong hit of anis. As for whoever dreamt up the idea of making gooseberry gelato, they deserve a big baci. This inspired creation tasted like a slice of gooseberry tart: custardy with hints of vanilla and fruity notes. Sorbets are also worth sampling: our scoop of strawberry was so fresh and zingy, you think you could feel the vitamins on your tongue.

Intrigued by the running chocolate tap on the counter? Your ice cream pot can be enhanced with a dollop of liquid milk chocolate at the bottom, before being topped with gelato. An interesting concept, which works well with gelato – not so well with the sorbets though, so be sure to request your scoops in the right order.

Cutesy surroundings (white walls; wooden floors and tables; pastel coloured metal chairs) make this gelateria a welcoming place to sit down for a lick of summer on a grey, rainy day.