PIDAPIPO

A method spurred by history. A business inspired by family.

Melbourne is well known for its love of gelato, so lovers of this authentic Italian dessert will be pleased to hear of the arrival of Pidapipo, Lisa Valmorbida’s first test lab and store. Collaborating with local artist Esther Stewart, design agency Fabio Ongarato, interior designer Tamsin Johnson and English illustrator Emily Forgot, Valmorbida has created the perfect summer escape in the heart of Carlton.

The name Pidapipo came from a game Valmorbida used to play with her Nonno. Games such as this, combined with traditions and lessons passed down through her family lead to Valmorbida’s passion for Italian culture and food. After gaining experience working in some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, Valmorbida travelled to Carpigiani Gelato University to learn the art of making gelato. She has now bought this knowledge and expertise to Melbourne to share with people who are as passionate about Italian food as she is.

Valmorbida is dedicated to stripping back gelato to its roots. Starting with a base, each flavour starts with a perfectly balanced base. Ingredients are carefully added till the mixture is perfect. It is then pasteurised on site and left to rest over night, where the cool temperatures allow flavours to blend seamlessly. In the morning, fresh fruit and raw ingredients are added before the mixture is churned, frozen and served. Must try flavours include hazelnut, pistachio, fior di latte and gianduja, or a for something a little quirkier, try yusu and vietnamese mint or pinacolada and sweet pop corn.

So this summer, make sure you head to Pipdapipo and experience a little piece of Italy.

222 Faraday Street, Carlton

Images by Stu Morley