On any given day in Hoboken at 900 Garden Street, you can find locals surrounding the artisanal gelato shop that is KikiLu Gelato. Residents come for the flavorful gelato, gluten-free cannolis, decadent desserts, and the Lavazza espresso bar — as well as an olive oil refill station. No detail is unnoticed — including the Roma-inspired exterior, for those who have taken the metro from Termini to the center of the city. The ingredients used at KikiLu are sourced from Italy, as well as from local farmers in the area — like Hudson Valley Fresh Dairy. We’re highlighting this local shop that has quickly made its way into our hearts (errr — bellies). Read on for everything KikiLu Gelato in Hoboken.
The Rise to Gelato Fame in Hoboken
KikiLu Gelato is Otto Strada’s sister spot in Hoboken, and inspired by its owners’ daughter. “I named it after my daughters’ nicknames – Kiki for Chiara (Ch is pronounced K in Italian) and Lu for Luna,” said Joe Cascetta.
Read More: KikiLu Gelato Debuts New Espresso Bar
It opened after over a year of delays — officially being announced in 2020 — but has already built quite the fan base. If you’ve never been, expect a vast array of gelato flavors. The shop’s highlights include purple sweet potato, nocciola/hazelnut, espresso gelato, dark chocolate stracciatella, and more.
The Cannoli Bar
There are cannoli options for everyone on this menu — including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan cannolis. If that’s not your thing, there are sheep and cows milk options to choose from as well. The shop uses hand-rolled shells that are made with imported ricotta — directly from Sicily and Tuscany.
Olive Oil Refills
One of the many unique things that KikiLu has become known for is the authenticity of the small batch of extra virgin olive oil that it sells and uses in its desserts. This olive oil is imported straight from an olive mill called Frantoio Carrano from Monte San Giacomo —which is a small town in southwestern Italy. The pure and fresh taste of this extra virgin olive oil has a rich flavor with a subtle hint of spice to top it off. Refills are available to take home in 16 ounce refillable glass bottles.
The Espresso Bar
A popular Italian favorite is the affogato — which is a coffee-based dessert made with gelato and a shot of espresso. We also recommend trying the espresso con panna — which is a shot of espresso with Italian whipped cream. Regular coffee options are on the espresso bar menu as well, including lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and more.
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It’s a small shop but has become a go-to for small-batch, homemade gelato that pleases the masses — safe to say having gelato true to its Italian roots is something that is welcomed in the Mile Square.
See More: The Best Northern NJ Ice Cream Shops to Try
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