News Summary
Gelatissimo, an Australian gelato brand, is set to open its new store in Irvine, CA, on May 2, 2025. The grand opening celebration will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and 1,000 free scoops of gelato for attendees. The first 200 guests who donate a non-perishable food item will receive exclusive merchandise, benefiting the UCI Basic Needs Center. Located at University Center, this new location promises a unique dessert experience with a wide range of high-quality gelato flavors, reflecting Gelatissimo’s commitment to community engagement and support.
Irvine Welcomes New Gelatissimo Store with Free Gelato Celebration
IRVINE, CA – On May 2, 2025, Gelatissimo, an Australian gelato brand, will celebrate its grand opening at a new location in the University Center in Irvine. This highly anticipated store opening comes as part of a broader expansion in the United States and follows Gelatissimo’s successful presence on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, owned by the Maninang family, Rey and Sarah.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Irvine location is scheduled for 4 p.m. and will feature a community celebration where Gelatissimo will offer 1,000 free scoops of gelato to the public. In addition to the free treats, the first 200 guests who donate a non-perishable food item will receive exclusive Gelatissimo merchandise while supplies last. These donated items will benefit the UCI Basic Needs Center, reflecting the brand’s commitment to supporting local community initiatives.
New Location Details
The new Gelatissimo store is situated at 4237 Campus Drive, Suite B164, in Irvine, CA. Customers can contact the store directly by calling 949-617-5300. This location replaces a previous concept that offered sushi handrolls, called Temakira. Gelatissimo aims to provide a unique dessert experience by serving high-quality gelato, which is distinct from traditional ice cream due to its higher milk content compared to cream.
Flavor Offerings
The Gelatissimo menu features an array of quirky and classic flavors, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Some of the available flavors include Chunky New York Cheesecake, Decadent Cookie Dough, Sticky Date Pudding, Balboa Choc Banana, Chilli Chocolate, and a refreshing Coconut sorbet. Each flavor is crafted to ensure a rich and creamy texture, offering an authentic gelato experience.
Community Connection
Owner Sarah Maninang expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve the Irvine community, highlighting the family’s personal connection to the area. The Maninang family, who have lived in Irvine for over a decade, appreciates the city’s multicultural and family-oriented atmosphere, which aligns well with the brand’s community-focused approach.
Global Franchise Expansion
Gelatissimo is part of a global franchise that has successfully expanded into various locations across the United States, including Texas and Hawaii. This expansion exemplifies the growing popularity of gelato, which offers a creamier and denser alternative to traditional ice cream, appealing to dessert lovers seeking new flavors and experiences.
Conclusion
The grand opening of Gelatissimo in Irvine not only signifies the introduction of a new dessert destination but also emphasizes community engagement and support initiatives. The celebration promises to draw a crowd and provide an opportunity for residents to enjoy delicious gelato while contributing to a local cause. With its diverse flavors and commitment to quality, Gelatissimo aims to become a beloved spot for gelato enthusiasts in Irvine.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Gelatissimo Opens Ice Cream Shop
- Wikipedia: Gelato
- Irvine Standard: Double Scoop in Irvine
- Google Search: Gelatissimo
- What Now: Authentic Italian Gelato
- Google Scholar: Gelato
- OC Register: Australian Gelato Brand to Open in OC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gelato
- LA Times: New Ice Cream Shop in Costa Mesa
- Google News: Gelato
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA
The Costa Mesa Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, and community gatherings at The LAB Anti-Mall. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Visit Costa Mesa, plus leading businesses in retail, entertainment, and innovation that shape the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
