Opening a restaurant means starting a new story and lighting a small ray of hope in the future. This is why we like to talk about places that have been able to be born and then reinvented themselves, creating a pleasant, appreciated and… sweet environment as in the case of Dolce Arte in Melfi.
An ice cream parlor that is also a cafeteria, pastry shop and place for exclusive aperitifs in the splendid province of Basilicata.
We talked about it with Francesca, who manages Dolce Arte together with her mother Antonella.
HOW AND WHEN WAS YOUR PLACE BORN?
Dolce Arte was opened by my mother in 2005 as an exclusive ice cream shop . Over the years, new products have taken over, different venues and diversified gastronomic proposals as well as, of course, my arrival. The activity as you see it now was born in February 2020, at the gates of the pandemic. However, we managed to turn it into a real success despite the many limitations. Takeaway and loyal customers have been our allies!
WHAT DO YOU OFFER?
Mainly hot and cold desserts. Although born as an ice cream shop, over time we have introduced various hot proposals. The undisputed stars are crêpes and bubble waffles, but we also prepare pancakes and churros. In addition to this, we offer artisanal pastries, classic breakfasts and cafeterias, together with rich aperitifs, American bar specialties and after-dinner cocktails. We are open all day.
WHAT IS YOUR VENUE'S SPECIALTY?
As I said before, crêpes and bubble waffles have now conquered all our customers. We serve the former mainly accompanied by creams and fruit, the latter by creating a real cone in which to enjoy our ice cream.
WHAT ARE THE STRONG POINTS OF THE PLACE?
Definitely creativity : our proposals are original, fun and different from those of the other places in Melfi. Then innovation and variety : our offer is new and fresh but above all wide. From breakfast to after dinner we know how to satisfy every taste and palate.
HOW DID YOU KNOW TECHFOOD?
We have been working with Techfood since we were exclusively ice cream parlors and served crêpes to accompany our artisanal sorbets. Our priority has always been to offer quality products; for this reason, we have expanded our offer by adding the Bubble Waffle machine and the pancake machine to our plates. We are very well!
WHAT MUST A SUCCESSFUL PLACE HAVE?
For me the basic recipe is: quality, courtesy and knowing how to keep up with the times. The relationship with the customer plays an important role, but to be successful you need to be willing to change , experiment and do new things without ever neglecting quality.
Whether you are the manager of historic establishments or new businesses, it is always important to update your proposal with innovative ideas. If Francesca and Antonella's insights have intrigued you, try the brand new Bubble Sticks.
You will amaze your customers!