By: Elizabeth Ludrick Date Posted: 1/30/2008 Printer Friendly Version Email Story to a Friend

Vibe: Ordering a scoop of gelato might bring back memories of that semester you spent in Rome; but for the kids, it’s just another cool, fresh treat. Texas may have the ice cream market cornered with Blue Bell, but the Italians have got gelato down to a science. Paciugo’s is made fresh daily, and each store is like a sleek pair of Prada shoes: comfortable and fun for any occasion.

Why it’s tot-friendly: Kids will love the heaping cups and cones and tiny spoons, as well as the option to mash together as many as three flavors for a truly custom experienc

Details Paciugo’s 5100 Belt line Road, Dallas, 972/392-7155 5915 Forest Lane, Dallas, 972/392-0319 32 Highland Park Village (inside Regent Theater), Dallas, 214/219-6161 5600 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas, 214/956-7979 1030 North Park Center, Dallas, 214/692-0600 3030 Olive Street, Dallas, 214/220-1200 3699 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, 214/219-2665 8008 State Hwy 121, Frisco, 972/712-1121 975 W. John Carpenter Freeway, Irving, 972/831-8999 2301 Preston Road, Plano, 972/612-1333

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Be sure to try: Mom and dad can sample the freshly brewed coffees and espressos while the kids endure brain freezes enjoying milk-, water-, or soy-based gelati.

Good to know: Water-based flavors, like cantaloupe pear and Texas ruby grapefruit have only 100 calories and no fat. Milk-based flavors, like Tiramisu and Amaretto chocolate chip, have less than 170 calories and 6 grams of fat.

Best times to go with kids: Evenings are the times to get your gelato fix around town. Certain locations are even prime locations to spot local celebs.