I have to admit - gelato isn't always my sort of thing. While I certainly enjoy it, it doesn't hit the same for me as a more classic scoop of ice cream does. However, after my friends suggested grabbing some gelato at 7Gradi after lunch, I couldn't say no. For one, I was intrigued by what types of interesting flavors and concoctions we might find, but also because a nice, cold dessert is always a fantastic decision on such a warm day!
Although it may not be tucked away in some corner of the complex, 7Gradi is somewhat easy to miss if you aren't paying attention. Not hard to see why given how there's just enough space inside for a half dozen or so folks to order/pay. Similarly, the menu isn't very extensive either, but they still have a solid mix of about fourteen different flavors, as well as a few flavors of waffles to go with your scoop(s). Also, even though they may not have any seating of their own to offer, there are a bunch of tables right outside with umbrellas that provide some shade, too!
-- PEACH MANGO
Of the two, I thought this one was far better. The flavor of both the peach and the mango was strong yet neither overwhelmed the other (or my other flavor). Plus, I loved how smooth and silky the gelato was (even smoother and silkier than other gelatos I've had).
-- BANANA CREAM
Not too shabby, but this was more solid than spectacular. While the consistency of this one was just as smooth, the flavor wasn't quite as remarkable. Mostly, the taste of the banana felt a little muted and, for some reason, it tasted more like banana than banana cream.
With regards to the service here, after reading multiple reviews about what others have experienced, it seems as though it can range from great to seriously lacking. Thankfully for us, it seems as though we got lucky and ended up coming on a good day - not only was the girl who helped us really friendly, but she was also super patient, helping us to sample multiple flavors before we eventually got about a half dozen orders. That being said, between the steady flow stream of customers that were stopping in and how she seemed to be the only one working, I wonder if understaffing could have something to do with it.
Since this is the only gelato shop I've been to in Honolulu, I can't say how 7Gradi compares to others, but they feel like a pretty decent option. Plus, it's great how unique some of their flavors are, like Mascarpone Oreo and Farm Cheese, and how their offerings change with the seasons. I'd still prefer to get some shaved ice or perhaps a scoop of classic ice cream instead of gelato, but the next time I'm here at the SALT complex, I certainly wouldn't be opposed to coming back again.
All in all, THREE AND A HALF STARS rounded up. read more