Caffe Dolci, San Francisco

"For those who have traveled at least once to Italy and indulged in the genuine flavors of La Dolce Vita, there is finally a new place in The City where you can find authentic desserts and many more unique delicacies."
—L'Italo-Americano

It's virtually impossible to return from Europe without a keepsake, whether it be a Parisian scarf or a stolen gondola oar. Restaurateur Aliah Warmund brought back something far more substantial: a dream. Allah was so enamored with the freshness of the food and desserts of Italy that she dedicated her life to sharing them with America. Thus Caffe Dolce was born.

Sweet and Smooth

Tahitian vanilla. Lemoncello. These traditional gelato and sorbet flavors need no introduction. Luckily, Allah wanted 25 flavors in her dessert case, so she experimented—and with great success. Ask for a spoon and sample signature flavors, such as PB&J and Marcel My Bell, made with swirled salty caramel and brown sugar. And though Allah is a Chicago native, the San Francisco 49ers gelato—made with gold sprinkled vanilla gelato and red-velvet cake balls—leaves little doubt where her gridiron loyalty lies.

More than Just Dessert

There's another secret to Caffe Dolce's success, and it doesn't require a spoon. Caffe Dolce has become a popular local destination for its fresh grilled paninis and build-your-own subs. They are all italian, from the herbaceous pesto to the paper-thin slices of prosciutto. Coffee is also a staple here. Baristas are on hand steaming milk for illy Italian espresso and rich hot chocolate, which can be made with caramel or a hint of chili pepper for a zing.