The gelato here is seriously amazing -- rich, flavorful, creamy, and probably some of the best I've had in a long time. The dark chocolate especially had a deep, intense flavor that was incredible. However, I do want to bring attention to something important regarding nut allergies. Unfortunately, there were nut pieces mixed into my dark chocolate gelato from a cone/scooper cross-contamination, and I ended up having an allergic reaction after eating it. Luckily, I had medicine with me, but situations like that can become very serious very quickly. I'm not writing this to bash the place because the gelato truly is great, but I do hope the staff can be more mindful and careful with allergy precautions moving forward. read more

As a big man that seldomly travels, I wasn't sure if I would like Venchi. But to my surprise, I had a pleasant time there and even received great help from the staff with what I wanted. Diana specifically was very helpful and made me feel at home. The way she talks makes me feel unjudged. She also had great recommendations, so I knew she knew her product. Glad I came to this store, and glad the staff was so welcoming. read more

Probably the best gelato I've ever had?? So creamy, not too sweet, great flavors & such a cute gelato shop at UTC. Love their long history with chocolate before venturing into gelato! Friendly service. I always have room for Venchi no matter how full I am from dinner. They have some rotating flavors but one seasonal one (strawberry stracciatella omgg). Their pistachio is amazing too and I think that is a permanent flavor. You can choose from fresh made waffle cones (plain, milk chocolate, dark chocolate w/ nuts, etc) or cups. I get both cause why not... and they usually top you off with their signature chocolate or biscuit. So cute read more

Venchi - Pistachio gelato with chocolate nut dipped cone - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

I finally stopped by Venchi and tried their vegan dark chocolate flavor. Unfortunately, it just wasn't for me. It had a surprisingly strong alcoholic taste(???) that overpowered the chocolate, so I couldn't really enjoy it. That said, I wouldn't judge the entire shop based on one flavor. I'd definitely come back and try some of their other options because I've heard great things. read more

Venchi has unique flavors of gelato, shakes, and crepes. I tried the pistachio and tiramisu flavors and both were amazing. This is unlike any other gelato place. From the ambiance to the service, you will not be disappointed. The gelato is on the pricier side but worth every penny! You also have the option to coat your cone or cup with chocolate and nuts, which elevates the flavors even more. read more

See all

Pretty good ice cream / gelato / dessert / chocolatier place in UTC. Nice cones, accommodating service (they also let you try samples) and candy store interior with some seats. Check it out! read more

The smell of freshly made waffle cones and the chocolate spout drew us in! I'm a sucker for gelato and this place reminded me of Bacio di Latte with the chocolate covered cups and option of nuts. The line wasn't too long and there's someone who takes your initial order and then you place your gelato flavor order as you get next to the gelato case. I tasted a few flavors and all were dense, soft and full of flavor! I did get the Pistachio Kunafa Delight and the Baciodidama! The hand made waffles cones are crispy and light and were delicious with the fresh chocolate outside of the cone with nuts to pair with your gelato. There are a few seating areas and they have a portion of the shop that's dedicated to their different types of chocolate. It really has a colorful fun vibe and employees were patient with us even though we asked to sample a few of the gelato flavors. Make sure to ask for a biscuit and the chocolate to top off your gelato for the finishing touch! I'll definitely come back again for dessert after dinner! read more

See all

Super excited to see Venchi at the La Jolla mall. First and last time I had it was a couple of years ago in the Rome airport as my last treat leaving Italy. This gelato was so delicious, just as tasty as I remembered. We got the 2 flavor option on a regular cone. They do have them slightly smaller when compared to the ones I've had in Italy in terms of serving but yummy nonetheless. Great service and the employee made great recommendations. We were the first one in for the day so the store was super clean and organized. Highly recommend to give them a try if you've never had Venchi. read more

See all

My hun & I were passing Nordstrom's & saw a line of people waiting to get in next door. I saw it was a chocolate & ice cream shop & basically jumped into line awaiting to taste this yummy goodness. They specialize in gelato such as Tiramisu, Straciatella & my favorite was their Almond. They have super fancy, freshly dipped chocolate cones with choice of nuts too. read more

First time at Venchi and I'm obsessed! They have actual chocolate fountains and authentic Italian gelato. Not to mention all the Italian chocolates. The store itself is like if Willy Wonka was luxe and upscale! The colors are eye catching and the scent from the chocolate is mouth watering. To top it all off, the bags you get from a purchase are beautiful too. I can't wait to come back soon. read more

See all

I've been here a few times now. My first visit was in June of 2024 when they had first opened. There was a long line for gelato! If you want to just buy chocolates, there is another line that is shorter. I opted for the mango gelato in a cup and they add a piece of chocolate on top! The mango is so refreshing and delicious. I also got some chocolates and a chocolate bar as well. They have lots of holiday boxes that make great gifts during this time of year. read more

See all

One of my favorite Italian Gelato places is here in San Diego! When I travel to italy this is one of my favorite gelato/chocolate places I make a point to visit. When I found out UTC had it, I was so ecstatic. The gelato here is sooo creamy and delicious. I would even say life changing for me. I can't eat gelato any where else. You get what you pay for, and that is true Italian luxury desserts. If you haven't tried it, go inside and the wonderful staff lets you Try a piece of chocolate or a sample of gelato! read more

See all

CHOCOGELATERIA (5 stars) Very lickable! From gelato down to the drippy cone butt. - Wait in a lengthy line - Pick your cone size - Gourmet your cone (optional) - Pick your gelatos - Pay WAFFLE CONE ($8.25/regular size comes with two scoops) - I had to get this! After picking the size option to get it fresh and warm for it ($1.25) And got it Gourmet (+$2.30) with hazelnut milk chocolate and grain of choice would be piedmont hazelnuts. And the gelato will be garnished with a dime size rich chocolate disk. I did ask "will the bottom of the cone drip" and was gaslighted with a "no" but that's a lie... the ends of their cones aren't tight and in a matter of minutes will have a drippy cone butt. That is one thing I look for in a cone - especially when paying that much. One trick I've leaved from another ice cream shop... put a piece of chocolate at the bottom to act like a stopper. BRUTTO BUONO - Milk Chocolate and hazelnut. Might be excessive with the cone in this flavor and then some gelato but it really wasn't. This chocolate was so smooth and silky with some crushed hazelnuts for texture. This is a very popular picked flavor. HIGHLY RECOMMEND STRAWBERRY - A fresh, fruity sorbet that everyone will love, made with delicious strawberry purée. This was that perfect fruity sorbet that breaks up all the chocolate going on. HIGHLY RECOMMEND Until the next review.... read more

Venchi - Decor - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Wow. What a mixed experience here. We had a delightful person greet us and provide samples of chocolates and was so kind. Then we had a completely different experience in the gelato line with a very surly person who treated us like idiots as we asked questions about the cone and cups - dismissive responses of you tell me the size here and get the gelato/sorbet down there. Maybe he was over it since it was late or he was busy making crepes. We also noticed similar treatment for the folks behind us in line as well. Regardless - a poor experience for a luxury brand. read more

the line for this place is always really long during the day, but my friend and i were lucky on a monday night to find that it was a bit shorter so we checked it out! they had about four vegan options: chocolate, mango, strawberry, and raspberry! The staff was very friendly and intuitive: I would ask for a scoop and he would already be handing it to me before I got the whole word out LOL! I ended up getting a "baby" strawberry gelato, and it was honestly plenty. My friend and i sat in the "chocolate area" and we were lucky to find a spot (there is a big sofa, and 3 tables with some chairs as well). I also ended up buying the dark chocolate hazelnut spread because I saw it was vegan. If you like dark chocolate and are vegan and miss nutella, this product is amazing with some toast! read more

Venchi - baby size strawberry gelato - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Came in to buy a box of chocolates. When I checked out, Kim let me know about the loyalty program that allows for discounts and a free chocolate bar with purchases over a certain amount (that I forgot). She was very friendly and helpful and when I asked about her favorite gelato flavors, she had me try the mango and the strawberry. Both are dairy free and are amazingly flavored. Might as well be eating the fruit straight up. She was the only one there and had other customers but was able to help me finish my purchase and get them their gelato as well. Looking forward to coming back and getting more gelato soon! read more

I finally tried this spot that I've passed numerous occasions and this worked out perfectly for some morning coffee. Known for their gelato and chocolate, this hidden gem near Nordstrom is stunning inside out. There's a small seating area inside and more outside near the outdoor water fountain. I ordered an Iced Americano and asked if I could add gelato. After sampling a few flavors I ended up changing my gelato first pick to the Cremino. The worker was super friendly and personable adding to a great experience. Pricing was reasonable and I look forward to returning for more and trying the chocolate next time. read more

Venchi - Iced Americano with 2 scoops of Cremino Gelato - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Closest yet to the gelato in Italy. Green Pistachio and Chocoviar Gianduia were creamy and delicious. I had pistachio daily and sometimes twice during my vacation and couldn't find anything close here in the US except for now! The servers were helpful and friendly. read more

Venchi - Green Pistachio and Chocoviar Gianduia - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Stopped by after dinner tonight, and we shared a scoop of the peanut butter gelato. WowZA. I get thy hype. The gentleman who served us our gelato was really nice! The store is super cute with lots of chocolates to choose from. Because the gelato was so good I am curious about the chocolates now. read more

Which Italian food company was founded in 1878 and still exists in the 21st century? If you guessed Venchi, you're absolutely correct! Wow, that's 147 years and still in business! That is so cool!! This Venchi is located at Westfield UTC in San Diego. It specializes in the production and sale of chocolate and gelato. Btw, Venchi is pronounced "VEN-kee" if you're wondering like I did. Both my daughters and I were impressed with the bright and colorful ice cream cones decor. Interior is elegant and classy. My eyes wide opened when I saw the wall of beautiful chocolates. My eyes widened even more when I saw the $13.90 per a quarter (1/4) pound sign... if you do the math, that equates to $55.60 per pound. You read right... it's no joke LOL. We got a little bit over half a pound of mix & match and paid a little bit over $30. Hey, great tasting quality chocolates that have been around for over 145+ years comes with a price and that's okay. Just enjoy! Prior to buying, we did get a chance to try some free samples of their most iconic chocolate. It's not Caviar... it Chocoviar! It is available in a whole host of different flavors topped with crunchy chocolate microspheres. I tried the hazelnut and stracciatella flavors. Both were really delicious. Surprisingly, they were not too sweet at all. Quality chocolates at its best. Just so yummy! Staff was super friendly and helpful. We didn't get a chance to try their gelato because we had ice cream already prior to coming here. We'll definitely catch their gelato next time. read more

See all

I first discovered this shop in New York. I was very happy when they opened up one in SD. Sour: the little chocolate they include with the ice cream is surprisingly not the greatest. Sweet: the panna cota gelato is my favorite so far! The other flavors are really good like pitaschio and hazelnut but the panna cota just became my favorite. read more

Venchi - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

I think this place is just ok. Got recommended this place by my husband's coworker, and my husband's big into ice cream, so we stopped by. We spent a bit of time just checking out the left side of the store dedicated to just their chocolates, but decided to pass since we were getting gelato anyway. But a kind employee packaging some chocolates asked us if we had any questions and talked to us about some of their product beforehand. The chocolates are pretty pricey, but I'd definitely like to try them someday. We waited in like for the gelato for about 10-15mins, I think. No complaints about it though, they let customers try samples of their flavors before make their cones/cups. It was cool seeing the cones made freshly behind the counter. Employees were super sweet and informative, and let us try as many flavors as we wanted. We settled for strawberry striacellta, tiramisu, and vanilla. I didn't care much for the strawberry (too icy and not very flavorful), or vanilla (I've had better/smoother), but really liked the tiramisu. I had sampled the cremino, but it's just a bit too rich for my liking. My husband was commenting that he thinks gelato just isn't for him, and I have to agree for myself too. The store is really pristine and well-laid out. Clean aesthetic and interior decor. read more

See all

Decent line and then people kept cutting from shopping to be with their family members which made the line take a long time. Not really the store's fault but annoying! $8.50 for a small scoop with two flavors. They seemed not that happy about my wanting to try three to decide. I got mango and pistachio, because the chocolate I tried was too bitter. The pistachio was excellent and I would recommend it. The mango was a flavor bomb in the first bite which is why I picked it. But as I ate it I realized it was just loaded with sugar rather than just ripe mango flavor. I would not get it again. I would get the pistachio again but I would not wait so long. This place seems like a trend that everyone wants to try and it would be easier to go to Le Parfait. The quality of the other flavors might be excellent like the pistachio, I just did not get to try enough. read more

Venchi - Mango and pistachio gelato with a chocolate coin - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

The interior is very inviting. Staff are helpful and you can try out flavors. I chose their dark chocolate vegan, GF gelato and it was almost as good as my favorite in Rancho Cucamonga. will def be back! read more

Venchi - Dark Chocolate is vegan and GF - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

The fruits in the sorbet tasted real and I really appreciate that. Mango strawberry raspberry and chocolate. They all tasted great. read more

We found this gelataria in UTC quite by accident today ... almost missing it outside Nordstrom. The shop is bright and welcoming, with chocolates to the left and gelato to the right. Counter service was great, and the gelato selection was very good. The gelato itself was excellent. I enjoyed the four flavors we tried. Best IMHO were Strawberry Stracciatella (5/5) and Pistacchio (5/5). Oh ... Venchi uses only pistacchio verde di Bronte, the best pistachios in the world, from Sicily! read more

Venchi - Interior -- Gelato Case - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

The best chocolatier in the world so to speak. Yes, Venchi is my most favorite when it comes to chocolates and gelato. The staff are very friendly and respectful. The ambiance is full of joyfulness. I feel so grateful that we have Venchi in San Diego. The taste of their chocolates are worth buying. By the way our sales associate told us, since we spent 70$ we have a courtesy gift of a cooler bag that's so nice with a Venchi logo in it. I recommend Venchi for their delicious chocolates and gelato read more

See all

The gelato itself is delicious! The raspberry flavor and white coffee were both really good. The service was friendly, but the ordering process seemed to be geared toward upselling. The manager began by offering the regular and large sizes, which are the more expensive options, and didn't mention the smaller size. Had I not read the menu, I wouldn't have known a baby size was offered. They then asked if I wanted a handmade cone. Since it was presented like the only choice, I assumed that meant it was the standard cone and didn't realize that was an upsell. The interaction felt like I was being towards the higher priced options. Partly my own fault for not reading the menu clearly to see the regular cone is not "handmade". Definitely try the gelato, but be sure to know all the options available so you're aware of any added costs! read more

I encouraged my elderly parental units to join me for some gelato after they shopped 'til they almost dropped at Nespresso & Brighton. They obliged and we were so pleased with Venchi's offerings. While the regular cups of gelato are small and pricey ($8.25), the offerings were plentiful and quality of the gelato was excellent. My first experience with straciatella was in Firenze when I studied abroad there back in the late 90s. Venchi took me bask to my favorite gelateria on a little side street near the Duomo. It was that good! Don't sleep on Venchi's chocolates either. They have a huge selection of beautifully boxed chocolates, chocolate bars, loose wrapped chocolates in an assortment of flavors, and fancy individual chocolates in a case Aak for a sample of the fancy chocolates and they'll happily let you try one. The decor is cute and it reminds me of cafes in Paris or Venice. There's even a cute little seating area in the back by all of the chocolates! Plenty of seating outside in front of Nordstrom as well. Service was great. Friendly, efficient & kind. We loved our experience at Venchi. Try it, you won't regret it. Ciao! read more

Venchi - Regular cup of gelato - straciatella & tiramisu - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

Everytime I go to UTC I HAVE to go to Venchi to get my favorite gelato! Their chocolate is absolutely amazing. I love their vegan chocolate gelato (Azteco)...it literally hits the spot like no other! All of their chocolates are incredibly high quality and the service here is wonderful!! Really appreciate all the kind chocolatiers who have answered all my questions and are super patient when it comes to sampling! The inside is cute, clean and well organized! You know I will be back :) read more

Venchi - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

This gelato is delish! Very creamy & flavorful I tried a scoop of the pumpkin spices and pecan nuts on a cone dipped in chocolate and rolled in hazelnuts & omg was I in heaven! This is a dessert worth the calories haha the line was a bit long and it moved very slowly so I'd say go with time to spare read more

See all

This Venchi is located inside UTC San Diego. There is free parking for the first two hours. They scan your license plate, so technically you don't have to pay for a lost ticket. I was here on a Sunday night, and the line was winding around the ropes outside! Even though it was windy, people seem to want and like their gelato. They have chocolate to the left and gelato to the right of the store. The flavors displayed on the menu above on the wall do not reflect the actual flavors inside the fridge. This is something that the workers should pay attention to. The signs facing the customers also did not match the flavors they were supposed to point to. After you pay for the cup/cone, you give your receipt to a scooper. They do allow free sample tastings. You can ask for the gelato in a cup but add a cone on top. Flavors I recommend: pistachio, strawberry, coffee temptation (limited edition). Pistachio is the best here!! The cone is eh. read more

Venchi - Menu from March 2025 - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

Venchi is a step above the rest when it comes to the gelato experience, providing rich, bold flavors to satisfy many. We were lucky and was helped by Venus, a young man who first asked what type of flavors we liked, and from there, catered a tasting of gelato samples along with pairings. This customer service was amazing and what made Venchi better than your standard gelato place. We had their chocoviar and cremino, a combination recommended by him. The dark deep chocolate melded well with the lighter hazelnut, a balance of richness and depth of flavor that was on point. If you happen to be in La Jolla UTC and craving something sweet, Venchi will sure to not disappoint! read more

Venchi - Gelato - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I'm not usually a big sweet tooth kind of person, but my visit to Venchi completely won me over thanks to Saul!! He went above and beyond to walk me through all the different chocolates, patiently explaining flavors and helping me pick out the perfect ones to try. He was so personable and attentive, so sweet and genuinely nice it felt like talking to a friend rather than a transaction that before I knew it, I was excited to take home a variety of chocolates and sign up for the rewards program. He helped me discover a mix of all the incredible chocolates. The shop itself was clean, bright, and inviting, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. He even introduced me to the rewards program, which was such a nice bonus! Saul truly made the visit memorable excellent service paired with amazing chocolate. 10000/10 recommend will definitely be coming back! read more

See all

Overpriced gelato. Authentic flavors no doubt, but a "baby" 1 scoop is $7.45 and a "regular" 2 scoop is $8.25?! Disclaimer: this is coming from someone with a nut allergy, and most of their flavors have some sort of nut in it (hazelnut or pistachio) which I couldn't try. I really did enjoy the coffee flavor, but the price just isn't worth it. I think they're known for their chocolate, but I honestly didn't like the complimentary chocolate piece on top. read more

See all

I had such a wonderful experience at Venchi, and it's all thanks to Gianna, who went above and beyond to make my visit both safe and special. My family and I have a range of allergies and disabilities that often make finding treats a challenge, but Gianna approached everything with such kindness, patience, and care that I left feeling not only accommodated, but genuinely seen and valued. She took the time to walk me through every option in detail explaining ingredients, packaging, and presentation making sure I understood exactly what would be safer and enjoyable for everyone. I was deeply appreciative of how intentional she was about helping me experience the best Venchi has to offer without sacrificing safety or comfort. Her thoughtfulness turned what could've been a stressful shopping trip into a joyful and memorable one. The store itself was stunning perfectly organized, clean, and beautifully arranged. Every display felt curated and inviting, like getting lost in a chocolate lover's dream. It had this magical, luxurious atmosphere that reminded me of what I always imagined a Willy Wonka tour would feel like but elevated, refined, and real. The attention to detail, from the lighting to the layout, made it clear that this isn't just a shop it's an experience. Gianna's knowledge, compassion and kindness left such a lasting impression on me. If you're visiting Venchi, I truly hope you get the chance to be helped by her. She represents the very best of customer service thoughtful, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. read more

Just go. Right now. Buy candy for yourself or for a gift. Or get coffee, affogato, crepes, or gelato. Team is nice and they have a free rewards club now. Aesthetic- insta worthy. read more

Venchi - Whip cream and cone on top of my scoop. Structurally not sound but absolutely delicious - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

I absolutely love their chocolate, gelato, and especially their affogatos. My favorite flavor is Baciodidama, inspired by two crumbly hazelnut biscuits joined together with a thin layer of chocolate. The staff are always kind and patient, even when I take my time sampling different flavors. I make it a point to stop by every time I visit UTC. read more

Venchi - Affogato with BacioDiDama gelato - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

My wife and I went to Venchi on Sunday, March 15th, and while waiting in their long line we were approached by an employee with an iPad who offered to take our order there. At first, we were delighted by the convenience. However, once I checked the receipt I noticed that he had added a 20% tip and did so without either informing us or obtaining our consent, which was quite sneaky. I would have happily offered a reasonable tip for the convenience however I am disturbed that they sneakily added a 20% tip without either informing us or obtaining our consent. read more

Customer service was welcoming as soon as I walked in. All the staff were attentive, informative, friendly and inviting. Loved the atmosphere and luxurious chocolates. Espresso, crispy nougat, Hazelnut, pistachio chocolates were my take homes. Located at the utc Westfield mall. Right next to Nordstrom. Parking garages or outdoor lots available surrounding. Outdoor or inside seating areas to enjoy your chocolate delights. Will definitely be back to try more! read more

Venchi - Gelato Near Me - San Diego, California

See all