Geláre: expertly crafted waffles and dense ice cream

We had a blast at Gelàre, popular for their expertly crafted waffle and dense ice cream. We had a plate of Waffle Buttermilk Fried Chicken which includes two pieces of delicious and crispy chicken, two waffles, gravy, and maple syrup.

Tuna Melt Wafflewich

We also ordered Tuna Melt Wafflewich which includes two “sandwiches” of waffle with creamy and moist tuna in between. Potatoes are served on the side. Both fall under their light all-day breakfast selection which also includes Gelàre’s Big Brekkie, Sliced Beef with Gravy, Eggs Ben, and Chicken Poppers (a best-seller).

Waffle Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Aside from their world-famous waffles that are made fresh and of natural ingredients, it is their signature ice cream that traces deep into Gelàre's roots. We ordered their best-sellers Vanilla Bean and Caramel Fudge Brownie. Since we ordered two scoops each, we mixed in the flavors of Choco Chip Cookie Dough and Caramel and Oregon Mint Fudge. We really liked the first three mentioned ice cream flavors.

Other flavors include Wild Strawberry, Pistachio, Raspberry Sorbet, Macadamia Nut, and Cookies and Cream, among others.

So, what makes Gelàre ice cream special? According to their press release, “Gelàre is an Italian word that means ‘to freeze’ or ‘congeal’, which is the final step in the ice cream making process. Geláre ice cream is specially crafted with no air, unlike the common commercial kinds that can contain up to 50% more air. This shouldn’t be mistaken for a gelato. Gelati or gelato is the generic Italian words for “ice cream” but in reality, gelato is actually an ice milk product with a low cream content. Geláre is unique because it is much creamier and thicker than Italian ice cream. It is also much heavier, and more intensely flavored than American ice cream.”

“Geláre ice cream is dished up slightly warmer than regular ones in order to allow comfortable scooping. It is thick, dense, and extremely rich, therefore serving it warmer makes it a bit softer. This also has the beneficial effect of enhancing the flavor of the ice cream. The slightly warmer temperature of Geláre allows you to fully appreciate its smooth, bold flavor even better,” the press release further stated.

Are you vegan and craving for ice cream? Fret not as they have Vegan selections such as Lychee Lane Sorbet, Mango Passion Sorbet, Banana Caramel Swirl, and Matcha Green Tea.

There is a selection for coffee lovers, too. After all, Gelàre is originally a cafe. They serve Espresso, Traditional Macchiato, Affogato (coffee-based dessert), Cafe Americano, Cappuccino, Cafe Latte, and more.

The place is conducive for hanging out, too. It is very spacious which offers diners a sense of privacy and the air-conditioning system is really good. I just had to mention the latter because when dining, comfort is very important.

Gelàre is located in Grand Xing Hotel, H. Montinola Corner, Loney Muelle Street, Iloilo City. For update, visit their Facebook page Gelàre Iloilo./