The opening of Gelateria Sorella in Bronxville is a delightful addition to the local food scene, offering a unique blend of artisanal gelato and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This new gelateria is the brainchild of Misha Mariani and Priscilla Scaff-Mariani, a husband-and-wife team with a rich culinary background in New York's fine-dining industry. Their journey in the restaurant world spans over 40 years, with contributions to renowned establishments like Daniel Boulud's Épicerie and Balthazar Bakery, and more recently, Gabriel Kreuther, The Marea, Lincoln Ristorante, and The William Vale.
What sets Gelateria Sorella apart is its commitment to quality and creativity. The gelato is handcrafted in small batches, with each flavor meticulously developed by Priscilla, balancing artistry and precision. The menu boasts 18 flavors, ranging from timeless classics like chocolate and pistachio to inventive twists such as negroni and campfire. The gelato is made with respect for ingredients, sourced from local farmers, and the dairy is proudly obtained from Battenkill Valley Creamery, a family-owned farm since 1902.
The gelateria's design is a delightful blend of childhood wonder and Italian café vibes, with deep cherry-red walls, pink striping, and a black-and-white checkered floor. The space is filled with nostalgic touches, including oversized ice cream cone handles on the front door and pink striped benches outside. The couple's intention to create a joyful space is evident in every detail, from the vintage lighting to the old-school diner-style napkin dispensers.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Gelateria Sorella is its commitment to giving back. A portion of the proceeds from the gelato, particularly the special Beni's Batch flavor, goes to Harboring Hearts, a non-profit supporting cardiac surgery patients and their families. The gelateria also offers a range of vegan and gluten-free options, including a killer gluten-free chocolate chip cookie and a vegan coffee cake, ensuring inclusivity and catering to various dietary needs.
The Marianis' decision to open a gelateria stems from their lifelong dream and a desire to create something joyful. Priscilla's childhood aspiration to have an ice cream truck on the beach, combined with their daughters' role as beta-tasters, has shaped the gelateria's name and concept. The shop is named after their daughters, with caricatures of their faces adorning the website and merchandise. This personal touch adds a layer of warmth and charm to the gelateria's offerings.
As the gelateria continues to evolve, customers can expect a rotating menu with new flavors and experimental creations. The Marianis have already developed 50 flavors and plan to unveil them gradually, using the gelateria as a canvas for tradition and innovation. The shop's current offerings include a vegan baked good, a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie, and Palmiers, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Gelateria Sorella is a testament to the Marianis' talent, passion, and commitment to creating a delightful and inclusive space. With its high-quality gelato, charming atmosphere, and generous spirit, it is sure to become a beloved destination for gelato lovers in Bronxville and beyond.
