Black Dog Gelato

Jessie might not be able to say how she comes up with flavors such as Goat Cheese Cashew Caramel, Sesame Fig Chocolate Chip, or Butterscotch Bourbon Pecan, but she’s always willing to share a few of the secrets that go into turning ideas into gelato. For one, even though gelato feels creamier than ice cream, it actually contains less milk fat—so Jessie's artisanal, small-batch process helps create a silkier texture. Jessie also explains that gelato is best consumed at a temperature slightly higher than freezing, as the warmth allows the flavors to wash over the tongue, resulting in a richer experience.

Each of Black Dog Gelato's flavors is only available in limited quantities, and Jessie proudly admits her tendency to change out her varieties whenever a burst of inspiration strikes. When a selection runs out, it’s often for good. But while no particular flavor is guaranteed to be available at any given time, Jessie can take specific requests in advance for her house favorites. She’s always ready to fulfill a fan’s cravings for that one-of-a-kind special treat, such as the savory, spirited Whiskey Bacon Gelato.

When you step into a Black Dog Gelato and first see the colorful flavors under the glass Vetrina, it’s as though you’re transported to a similarly small gelato shop along a cobblestone street corner in Rome, Florence, or Milan. While exploring Chicago, you’ll even find Jessie’s handcrafted gelato on the dessert menus of top hotels and restaurants and popular summer festivals, including the Pitchfork Music Festival and Renegade Craft Fair.

Discover more Illinois Artisans at Illinois Made.