I try not to use too many superlatives unnecessarily but after eating literally hundreds of scoops of gelato, I can say that Otaleg is absolutely the very best gelato in Rome. The only problem with getting a taste of this deliciousness was that the shop was a bit outside of the city center — but now there is (finally) an Otaleg in Trastevere.
If you haven’t already spotted the play on spelling, “otaleg” is simply “gelato” backward.
The original location was slightly inconveniently located, but the new outpost is now located between Piazza San Cosimato and Piazza San Calisto in Trastevere.
I am a fan of Otaleg because the flavors are a balance between perfectly executed classics, seasonal treats, and some more creative concoctions.
The first layer here, for example? That is the best pistachio gelato that I have had in my life. Ever. Period. Topped with Marco Radicioni’s take on fior di latte, which includes a grapefruit marmalade.
The new gelateria is smaller but sleeker than the original. While it serves some of the absolute Otaleg classics, the shop makes all of its own gelato on site so it is not being transported in from the other location. The selection is slightly smaller but still excellent.
What makes Otaleg my favorite gelato in Rome is the care that goes into every batch – the gelato has the perfect balance of creamy coldness without ever being too much cream.
It was slated to open June 1st, and when it didn’t, I took to emailing them to ask when the new estimated opening day would be.
I have stopped by several times and managed to consume five scoops on the last trip.
When I walked in, I found PierDaniele and Valeria of Seu Pizza Illuminati chatting with Marco in the back.. so I would keep an eye on their dessert menu for some future collabs.
Otaleg Gelato in Trastevere
Via di S. Cosimato, 14a
Rome, Italy (Trastevere)
Open: 12 pm – 12 am every day
Love your posts! We’ll be in Rome next week and can’t wait to take our daughter to Otaleg! Any recommendations for a fun, authentic gelato/cooking class? I’m so happy I found your site!
Hi Natalie,, I just found your blogs and going through them. I’m living in Germany and will be making my first trip to Rome over Thanksgiving (American) late Nov. I imagine a lot of these places will have shorten hours or be closed…can you comment on Rome sites and food places during non-tourist season?…Great info! Keep up the good work!…..Palmer
They should be open fairly normal hours! Maybe gelato places will close a bit earlier (10 pm instead of midnight, for example). Gelaterie tend to close for vacation in the coldest months – Jan/Feb
I wish I was in Rome right now This looks amazing I want one (of each flavour) xoxo Cris
https://photosbycris.blogspot.com/2018/07/glamour-in-park.html
It is EXCELLENT! I hope you get to try them soon!
Went there on Friday and felt strangely compelled to go there again on Monday.
The Venezuelan chocolate is a gift from the Gods!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
I might be mistaken. But from the pictures, it seems this place does powder gelato, and not real gelato like giolitti. Especially the giolitti near the piramide station. It’s smaller, there isn’t a crowd, and you can watch them make gelato.
They definitely don’t use powder at Otaleg! Can I ask why you think so?
I like Giolitti in Testaccio because their flavors and their technique is very old school.
Hi Natalie! Thanks so much for your reviews and helpful tips. I am heading to Rome in September for 6 months and I will be sure to use your recommendations . Otaleg is definitely on the list.
Wonderful that you get to come for so long! Enjoy Otaleg and enjoy all of ROME!