Many refer to gelato as "Italian ice cream," but this rich dessert is much different from the airy, creamy American ice cream. The Italian take on this frozen dessert contains less butterfat and is mixed with very little air (ice cream can contain as much as 50 percent air). The result is a dense, intensely flavorful cream with fresh ingredients such as fruits, nuts and purees mixed in. While ice creams coat the tongue with butterfat, the low-fat gelatos allow the fresh flavors to come through. And many consider it to be just as rich and enjoyable as ice cream.

Knowing what we know about this European indulgence, it is easy to see why the craze is catching on so rapidly in the United States. By the International Dairy Food Association's estimates, sales of this treat soared by 200 percent or more in 2001 alone. More and more restaurateurs are experimenting with the sale of gelatos, yet few qualified gelato supply contractors exist to help would-be gelaterias meet the demands of this specialized niche.

The Perfect Fit is uniquely qualified to help gelateria owners equip their specialty shops with the ideal mix of products for an eclectic menu. Gelato dipping cabinets in combination with well-chosen ice cream dipping cabinets, pastry and deli displays, beverage centers and coffee bars mean an astoundingly diverse menu in even the tiniest small-town shop.

Gelatos, which are traditionally made in small batches, are ideally suited for sale in everything from small Mom-and-Pop operations to bustling metropolitan eateries. Quickly whip up an array of flavors in a small batch freezer and display them to full advantage in well-lighted gelato dipping cabinets. No matter what specialty item you need to do business, The Perfect Fit restaurant equipment supply has the scoop on the most modern, functional gelator supply.